Vietnam visa requirements for tourists

Visa-on-arrival and e-visa options

Vietnam issues tourist visas through two primary remote channels: e-visa (electronic visa) and visa-on-arrival. The e-visa can typically be applied online and processed within 1–3 business days, allowing travelers to collect the visa upon landing. Visa-on-arrival requires prior arrangement through an approved agency and involves submitting passport details; the actual visa is collected at the airport. Both options suit tourists planning a standard visit of up to 30 days. Processing timelines and costs fluctuate; applicants should confirm current fees and processing duration with the official immigration portal or authorized agencies. Neither option involves visiting an embassy in person before arrival.

Primary entry route for tourists

E-visa or visa-on-arrival

Typical processing time

1–3 business days (e-visa)

Common tourist visa duration

Approximately 30 days

Application method

Online (e-visa) or through authorized agency

Visa-free entry for select nationalities

Vietnam permits visa-free entry for citizens of approximately 18 countries and territories, typically for stays up to 90 days. Eligible nationalities vary and are periodically reviewed; most EU nations, several ASEAN countries, and a handful of others qualify. Visa-free travelers may stay in Vietnam without obtaining prior documentation, entering directly with a valid passport. However, eligibility depends on nationality and intended stay length, so travelers should confirm their country's status with the Vietnamese Ministry of Foreign Affairs or their nearest Vietnamese diplomatic mission before travel. Visa-free access does not extend to all nationalities and remains subject to policy changes.

Visa-free entry eligibility

Approximately 18 countries (subject to change)

Typical visa-free duration

Up to 90 days

Documentation required

Valid passport only

Confirmation source

Ministry of Foreign Affairs or Vietnamese embassy

Passport requirements and nationality considerations

Vietnam requires a passport valid for at least six months beyond your intended departure date. Holders of standard passports from G7 nations (Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, United States, United Kingdom) and ASEAN member states typically access visa-on-arrival and e-visa pathways with standard processing. Nationals of visa-free countries skip these steps entirely. Passport holders from nations without visa-free privileges will need either an e-visa or visa-on-arrival. Some nations face longer processing times or additional documentation requirements, though these vary case-by-case. Travelers with non-standard passports, diplomatic documents, or stateless status should contact their nearest Vietnamese embassy or consulate for specific guidance.

Passport validity requirement

Six months minimum

G7 and ASEAN nationals

Standard e-visa and visa-on-arrival access

Visa-free nationalities

Approximate 18 countries

Special cases

Contact Vietnamese embassy for non-standard passports

Application process and official resources

The official Vietnamese e-visa portal (evisa.xuatnhapcanh.gov.vn) is the government-endorsed channel for online visa applications. Applicants submit scanned passport bio-pages, photographs, and travel details; payment is typically processed via credit card. Visa-on-arrival requires booking through an authorized agency beforehand and presenting the approval letter at the airport. Processing fees and timelines are published on the official portal and vary by visa category. To avoid delays and fraud, use only official government websites or certified agencies. Traveling without valid entry documentation may result in denial of entry, fines, or deportation. Always verify visa status before flight departure and allow adequate processing time.

Official e-visa portal

evisa.xuatnhapcanh.gov.vn

Required documents

Passport scan, photo, travel details

Payment method

Credit card (online portal)

Verification step

Confirm visa approval before departure

Frequently asked

Do I need a visa to visit Vung Tau, Vietnam?

Most nationalities require a visa to enter Vietnam. Approximately 18 countries enjoy visa-free access. If your country is not visa-exempt, you will need either an e-visa or visa-on-arrival. Check the official Vietnamese Ministry of Foreign Affairs website or your nearest embassy to confirm your nationality's requirements before booking travel.

How long does an e-visa take to process?

E-visa processing typically takes 1–3 business days from submission. Processing times vary depending on application volume and accuracy of submitted documents. Submit applications well in advance of your travel date—ideally at least one week—to allow for processing and unexpected delays.

What is the difference between e-visa and visa-on-arrival?

E-visa is applied for online before arrival and collected at the airport. Visa-on-arrival requires prior booking through an authorized agency; an approval letter is presented upon landing. Both permit standard tourist stays, typically 30 days. Processing costs and timelines differ; check official sources for current fees.

How long can I stay in Vietnam on a tourist visa?

Tourist visas typically allow approximately 30 days. Visa-free entrants may stay up to 90 days depending on nationality. Exact durations vary by visa category and nationality. Overstaying is subject to fines and potential deportation. Confirm your specific duration before departure.

Can I extend my visa while in Vietnam?

Visa extensions are possible within Vietnam through immigration offices, though extension eligibility and costs vary by visa type and extension duration. Plan extensions well in advance if needed. Contact the Vietnamese immigration office in your arrival city or a local travel agency for current extension procedures and fees.

Where should I apply for a Vietnam visa if I'm unsure?

Use the official government e-visa portal (evisa.xuatnhapcanh.gov.vn) or contact your nearest Vietnamese embassy or consulate. Avoid third-party visa services to prevent fraud and delays. Government channels provide the most reliable, current information and documentation requirements.