Vietnam visa requirements for tourists

E-visa and online application

E-visa is the fastest and most convenient option for most nationalities. Applications are submitted online through Vietnam's official immigration website, requiring a digital passport photo and scanned bio page. Processing typically takes 1–3 business days. E-visas are single-entry or multiple-entry, valid for 30 or 90 days from issue date. The holder must enter Vietnam within 90 days of visa issuance. E-visa approval is sent via email and must be printed before arrival; immigration officers will verify the document at the port of entry. This method eliminates in-person embassy visits and works for nationalities including those from the US, UK, EU, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand.

Processing time

1–3 business days typically

Validity

30 or 90 days from issue

Entry window

Must enter within 90 days of issue date

Application channel

Online via official immigration website

Visa-on-arrival (VOA)

Visa-on-arrival allows eligible travelers to receive a visa stamp directly at Vietnamese airports and some land borders upon presentation of approval documentation. A tourist typically arranges this through licensed travel agents or visa service companies, who submit an application on their behalf and receive an approval letter within 1–2 business days. The traveler then prints the approval letter, carries it with their passport, and completes the visa issuance at the airport immigration desk, paying the stamping fee in cash. VOA visas are often available in single-entry or multiple-entry formats with 30 or 90-day validity. This route is useful for travelers who prefer agent assistance or last-minute applications.

Application method

Via licensed travel agent or visa service

Processing time

1–2 business days for approval letter

Collection point

Airport or land border immigration desk

Payment method

Cash fee paid on arrival

Visa types

Single or multiple entry, 30 or 90 days

Nationality-specific eligibility and duration

Visa eligibility and approved durations vary by passport nationality. Citizens of EU countries, the United States, United Kingdom, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand typically qualify for 30-day or 90-day tourist visas via e-visa or visa-on-arrival. ASEAN nationals (Indonesia, Thailand, Malaysia, Singapore, Philippines, Brunei, Laos, Myanmar, Cambodia) often benefit from expedited processing and, in some cases, extended stay options; some ASEAN countries have reciprocal agreements allowing visa-free or reduced-visa-requirement entry. Nationalities not listed in standard tourism visa categories should verify eligibility with the Vietnamese embassy in their home country, as policy and processing options differ widely.

G7/Western nationals

30 or 90-day tourist visa typical

ASEAN nationals

Variable; some visa-free or extended stay

Other nationalities

Verify with embassy; eligibility varies

Most common visa duration

30 days single-entry or 90 days multiple-entry

Key documents and entry rules

All tourists entering Vietnam must hold a passport valid for at least 6 months from the date of entry. A completed visa application (for e-visa) or approval letter (for VOA) and a digital passport photograph meeting Vietnamese immigration specifications are required. On arrival, immigration officers will inspect the visa or approval letter, passport bio page, and may ask about the purpose and duration of stay. Onward airline or bus tickets are sometimes requested but not always mandatory. Travelers should carry copies of their visa approval (printed for e-visa) and maintain it throughout their stay, as local police may conduct spot checks on foreigners. Any visa extension or overstay incurs significant fines and potential entry bans.

Passport validity

Minimum 6 months from entry date

Required documents

Passport, visa/approval letter, photo

Visa format (e-visa)

Must be printed; email approval insufficient

Overstay penalty

Fine and potential future entry ban

Frequently asked

Can I get a Vietnam visa on arrival at Noi Bai Airport (Hanoi)?

Yes, visa-on-arrival is available at Noi Bai and most international airports. Arrange an approval letter through a licensed agent 1–2 days before travel, print it, and present it with your passport at the immigration desk to complete the visa stamp. Have cash ready to pay the stamping fee.

How long is a Vietnam tourist e-visa valid?

E-visas are issued with 30-day or 90-day validity from the issue date. You must enter the country within 90 days of the visa being approved. The duration you stay is separate from the visa validity; a 30-day visa allows a 30-day stay from entry date.

What is the difference between single-entry and multiple-entry visas?

Single-entry visas permit one exit and re-entry; leaving and re-entering requires a new visa. Multiple-entry visas allow multiple exits and re-entries within the visa validity period without purchasing a new visa, making them useful for regional travel.

Do UK or Australian passport holders need a visa for Vietnam?

Yes, both UK and Australian citizens require a visa. They typically qualify for 30 or 90-day tourist visas via e-visa or visa-on-arrival. The visa rules have not changed, and no visa-free entry is available.

Where do I apply for a Vietnam visa if I am outside the country?

E-visa applications are submitted online via Vietnam's official immigration website. Alternatively, apply in person at a Vietnamese embassy or consulate in your home country, or arrange visa-on-arrival through a licensed travel agent.

What happens if I overstay my Vietnam visa?

Overstaying incurs substantial daily fines (approximately USD 10 per day, subject to change), assessed at departure. Serious overstays can result in deportation, a fine, and a ban from re-entry for 1–3 years.