Vietnam Visa Guide 2026 | E-Visa, Visa on Arrival & Requirements

Planning your Vietnam trip? Understanding visa requirements is essential for a smooth arrival. This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about Vietnam visas in 2026, including the latest updates, application processes, and insider tips.

Visa Exemptions - Who Can Enter Vietnam Without a Visa?

Vietnam has significantly expanded its visa exemption program. Here's who can enter visa-free:

15-Day Visa Exemption

European Countries:

Germany, France, Italy, Spain
United Kingdom (15 days)
Denmark, Sweden, Norway, Finland (15 days)
Russia, Belarus

Asian Countries:

Japan, South Korea
Brunei, Cambodia, Indonesia, Laos, Malaysia, Singapore, Thailand, Philippines (30 days for ASEAN)

Important Conditions:

Passport must be valid for at least 6 months from entry date
Single entry only for 15-day exemption countries
Must have onward/return ticket
Previous visit: Must wait 30 days after previous exit before re-entering visa-free (check current regulations as this changes)

45-Day Visa Exemption (New Extended Program)

Vietnam extended visa exemptions to 45 days for citizens of:

Germany, France, Italy, Spain, United Kingdom
Poland, Czech Republic, Hungary
And select other European countries

Note: This program has been extended multiple times. Always verify current duration on official Vietnam Immigration website as policies can change.

30-Day Visa Exemption (ASEAN)

Citizens of ASEAN countries enjoy 30-day visa-free entry:

Cambodia, Indonesia, Laos, Malaysia, Singapore, Thailand, Philippines, Myanmar, Brunei

Special Cases

Philippines Citizens:

21 days visa-free

Chile, Panama, Cambodia, Indonesia, Kyrgyzstan, Myanmar:

Various durations (check current regulations)

E-Visa (Electronic Visa) - The Easiest Option

Availability: Over 80 countries eligible Cost: $25 USD (official government fee) Processing Time: 3 business days (usually faster) Validity Period: 90 days from date of entry Entries: Single or Multiple entry available Stay Duration: Up to 90 days

How to Apply for E-Visa

Step-by-Step Process:

Visit Official Website:
- Go to: evisa.xuatnhapcanh.gov.vn (official Vietnam Immigration website)
- Beware of fake websites charging extra fees
- Make sure it's the .gov.vn domain
Fill Online Application Form:
- Personal information (as per passport)
- Passport details
- Entry/exit dates
- Port of entry (airport, land border, seaport)
- Purpose of visit
- Current address
- Temporary address in Vietnam (hotel name)
Upload Required Documents:
- Passport data page (clear scan/photo)
- Recent passport photo (4x6cm, white background)
- JPG format recommended
- Maximum file size: 2MB each
Pay Application Fee:
- $25 USD via credit/debit card
- Visa, Mastercard, JCB accepted
- Keep payment confirmation
Receive E-Visa:
- Email notification when approved
- Download e-visa PDF
- Print 2 copies (one for entry, one for exit)
- Also save on phone as backup

Requirements:

Passport valid for at least 6 months from entry date
Digital passport photo (specific dimensions)
Valid email address
Credit/debit card for payment

E-Visa Advantages

Why Choose E-Visa:

No embassy visit required
Apply from anywhere in the world
Quick approval (often within 24-48 hours)
Multiple entry available
Valid for all entry points (airports, land borders, seaports)
Can specify exact entry/exit points
Official government system
Secure and reliable

Important E-Visa Notes:

Entry Points: You MUST enter through the port you specified in your application
Dates: Enter on or after the "valid from" date (not before)
Extensions: E-visas can be extended inside Vietnam (through agencies)
Print: MUST print your e-visa; showing on phone may not be accepted
Validity: Starts from date you specify, not approval date
Multiple Entry: Available; choose this if you might exit to Cambodia/Laos and return

Visa on Arrival (For Air Travel Only)

Important: Visa on Arrival is ONLY valid for air arrivals, NOT for land or sea borders.

Two-Step Process

Step 1: Obtain Approval Letter (Before Travel)

Apply online through licensed agency:

Cost: $10-30 per person depending on service speed
Processing:
- Normal: 2-3 business days
- Rush: 4-8 hours (extra fee)
- Super rush: 1-2 hours (higher fee)
Not an actual visa, just approval to obtain visa on arrival
Shared letter with other travelers (names visible)

What You Get:

PDF letter listing your name
Valid for specific dates
States visa type approved
From Vietnam Immigration Department

Step 2: Get Visa Stamped at Airport

Upon arrival at Vietnam airport:

Go to "Visa on Arrival" counter (before immigration)
Present:
- Approval letter (printed)
- Passport
- Entry/exit form (provided on plane or at counter)
- 2 passport photos (4x6cm)
- Stamping fee in cash (USD)
Wait for name to be called (15-60 minutes depending on flight arrivals)
Receive passport with visa sticker
Proceed to immigration

Stamping Fees (Cash USD Only):

Single entry, 30 days: $25
Multiple entry, 30 days: $50
Single entry, 90 days: $25
Multiple entry, 90 days: $95

Pros:

Slightly cheaper than e-visa total cost
Multiple entry options up to 90 days
Established system
Many agencies offer service

Cons:

Two-step process (approval + stamping)
Queue at airport can be long
Need exact cash in USD
Approval letter shows other people's details
Only works for air arrivals
Need passport photos
Can't use for land/sea entry

Best For:

Travelers needing 90-day multiple entry (e-visa alternative)
Those unable to apply for e-visa for some reason
Groups traveling together (shared approval letter cheaper)

Embassy/Consulate Visa

Apply at Vietnamese embassy or consulate in your country.

When to Choose This:

Your nationality not eligible for e-visa
Need visa type not available online (business, diplomatic)
Want certainty before traveling
Prefer physical visa sticker in passport
Planning long-term stay

Process:

Locate nearest Vietnamese embassy/consulate
Check their specific requirements
Submit:
- Passport (original)
- Application form
- Passport photos
- Supporting documents (hotel booking, flight, invitation if needed)
Pay fee
Wait 5-7 business days (or longer)
Collect passport with visa

Cost: $60-150 depending on country and visa type Processing: 5-10 business days typically

Pros:

Physical visa in passport
Can ask questions in person
All visa types available
Certain approval before travel

Cons:

Most expensive option
Must visit embassy (or mail passport)
Longer processing time
Less flexible
Specific embassy opening hours

Visa Extension & Renewal

Need to stay longer in Vietnam? Several options available:

Extension Options

1. E-Visa Extension:

Can extend e-visa for additional 30-90 days
Must apply through agency (government doesn't do directly)
Cost: $50-150 depending on duration
Processing: 5-7 business days
No need to leave Vietnam
Passport collected and returned with extension

2. Visa Renewal:

Essentially a new visa issued inside Vietnam
Can change to longer duration
Cost: $80-200 depending on type and duration
Processing: 5-10 days through agency
Need to provide passport, photos, forms

3. Visa Run (Border Run):

Exit Vietnam and re-enter
Fly to Thailand, Cambodia, Laos for a day or weekend
Get new visa exemption or new visa
Can be cheapest but takes time
Consider visa exemption re-entry waiting periods

Important Notes:

Overstaying fines: $25 per day (can add up!)
Extensions must be done before visa expires
Some extensions possible at immigration offices directly
Agencies make process much easier (recommended)

How to Extend:

DIY at Immigration Office:

Go to local immigration office
Bring passport, photos, application form
Pay fee
Wait 7-10 days
Challenging without Vietnamese language skills

Through Agency (Recommended):

Contact reputable agency
Provide passport copy, photos
Pay fee
They handle everything
Passport returned with extension
Much easier for tourists

Business Visa

For business travelers, longer stays, or those frequently visiting Vietnam:

Business Visa Types:

DN1: For employees of foreign companies in Vietnam
DN2: For business visitors
DT: For investors

Durations Available:

1 month (single/multiple entry)
3 months (single/multiple entry)
6 months (multiple entry)
12 months (multiple entry)

Requirements:

Invitation letter from Vietnamese company
Business registration documents of inviting company
Letter explaining purpose of visit
Sponsor company's tax code and registration

Application:

Usually through Vietnamese company/sponsor
Can also apply at embassy with documents
E-business visas not yet available

Cost: $80-200 depending on duration Processing: 5-10 business days

Advantages:

Long validity (up to 12 months)
Multiple entries
Can extend easily
Foundation for work permit later

Common Questions & Answers

Q: Can I extend my visa-free stay? A: No, visa exemptions cannot be extended. You must exit and re-enter (considering waiting period rules).

Q: What happens if I overstay my visa? A: Fine of $25 per day of overstay. For extended overstays, possible temporary ban and mandatory exit. Pay fine at immigration office or airport when leaving.

Q: Can I work on a tourist visa or visa exemption? A: No. You need proper work permit and business visa. Working illegally can result in fines, deportation, and future entry ban.

Q: Do I need a visa for airport transit? A: Not if you stay airside and transit is under 24 hours. If you want to leave airport or overnight, you need a visa or must be eligible for visa exemption.

Q: My passport expires in 4 months, can I still enter? A: No. Passport must be valid for at least 6 months from your planned entry date. Renew your passport before applying for visa.

Q: Can I enter at different airport than stated on e-visa? A: No. You must enter through the port of entry specified in your e-visa application. Ensure you choose the correct airport.

Q: Is travel insurance required for Vietnam visa? A: Not mandatory for visa approval, but highly recommended. Some airlines may require it for boarding.

Q: How many passport blank pages do I need? A: Minimum 2 blank pages recommended for visa sticker and stamps.

Q: Can I get visa extension for my children? A: Yes, same process as adults. Children on parent's passport also need their own visa (if passport system used).

Q: What if my e-visa application is denied? A: Rare but possible if information incorrect or passport issues. Fee is non-refundable. Can apply again with corrections.

Entry Requirements (Post-COVID-19)

Good news! Vietnam has removed all COVID-19 entry restrictions:

No Longer Required:

✅ Vaccination proof/certificate
✅ PCR or rapid antigen test
✅ Quarantine
✅ Travel insurance specifically for COVID
✅ Health declaration forms

Currently Required:

Valid passport (6+ months validity)
Valid visa or visa exemption eligibility
Onward/return ticket
Proof of accommodation (sometimes checked)
Travel insurance (recommended, not mandatory)

Vietnam is fully open for international tourism with no COVID restrictions!

Visa Tips & Insider Knowledge

Application Tips

1. Apply Early, But Not Too Early:

E-visa: Apply 2-3 weeks before travel
Embassy visa: Apply 4-6 weeks before
Don't apply more than 90 days before (may cause issues)

2. Double-Check Everything:

Passport number (no spaces, exact as passport)
Name spelling (exactly as passport, including middle names)
Dates (DD/MM/YYYY format)
Entry point (specific airport/border name)
One typo can mean rejected visa and lost fee

3. Use Official Websites:

E-visa: evisa.xuatnhapcanh.gov.vn (only official site)
Beware of .com websites charging $50-100 (they just submit on your behalf)
Save $25+ by applying direct

4. Save Digital Copies:

Email visa to yourself
Save on phone
Print multiple copies
Keep in different bags

5. Print Everything:

E-visa (2 copies)
Approval letter (if using visa on arrival)
Passport photo page
Travel insurance
Hotel bookings
Return flight ticket

Entry Tips

At Immigration:

Have all documents ready before reaching counter
Be polite and patient
Answer questions honestly and briefly
Don't offer bribes (never necessary)
If issues, ask to speak to supervisor

Common Questions Asked:

Purpose of visit: "Tourism/Holiday"
Where staying: Name of first hotel
How long: Number of days
Occupation: Brief answer
First time in Vietnam: Yes/No

Red Flags to Avoid:

Working without work permit
Previous overstays or violations
Damaged passport
Missing pages in passport
Conflicting information

Extension Tips

1. Start Early:

Begin extension process at least 10 days before expiry
Don't wait until last minute
Immigration offices can be slow

2. Use Reputable Agencies:

Hotels can often arrange (with markup)
Ask other travelers for recommendations
Check reviews online
Established agencies in major cities

3. Keep Passport Copy:

Agency will keep your passport for 5-7 days
Have a color copy for ID purposes
Take photo of passport data page
Write down passport number

Money-Saving Tips

1. DIY E-Visa:

Apply directly (evisa.xuatnhapcanh.gov.vn)
Save $20-50 vs agency fees
Just as reliable
Easy process

2. Maximize Visa-Free Period:

If eligible for 45 days visa-free, use it
Plan itinerary to fit within exemption
Avoid visa costs entirely

3. Plan Exits Strategically:

If considering Cambodia/Laos visit, time it right
Could re-enter Vietnam visa-free after side trip
Check waiting period rules

4. Group Applications:

Visa on arrival approval letters often have group rates
Traveling with friends? Apply together

Country-Specific Guidance

United States Citizens

Not eligible for visa exemption
Must get e-visa or visa on arrival
E-visa recommended (easier)
Choose multiple entry if visiting neighboring countries

United Kingdom Citizens

45-day visa exemption available
Extended from previous 15 days
Perfect for most tourist visits
Need visa if staying longer

Australian Citizens

Not eligible for visa exemption
Must get e-visa or visa on arrival
E-visa is simplest option
Popular destination, well-established process

Canadian Citizens

Not eligible for visa exemption
E-visa strongly recommended
90-day multiple entry available

Indian Citizens

Must obtain visa in advance
E-visa available
Sometimes faces longer processing (5-7 days)
Ensure application is perfect (Indian passports face higher scrutiny)
Carry hotel bookings and return tickets

Chinese Citizens

Special visa arrangements exist
Check current regulations (policies change)
Some special economic zones offer visa on arrival
Generally need visa in advance

Red Flags & Common Problems

Application Rejected - Why?

Common Reasons:

Passport expiring within 6 months
Typos in application (especially passport number)
Poor quality photo uploads
Previous visa violations
Invalid passport (damage, missing pages)
Conflicting information in application
Previous overstay or deportation

If Rejected:

Fee is non-refundable
Can apply again immediately (fix errors)
Consider embassy visa if repeated rejections
Check passport validity carefully

At Airport - Visa Issues

Problem: E-visa not in system

Show printed e-visa
Ask officer to check email confirmation
Call Vietnam Immigration hotline (number on e-visa)
Stay calm and polite

Problem: Wrong entry point

E-visa specifies entry airport; can't use at different one
No easy solution
May need to buy ticket to correct airport
Or pay for new visa on arrival (if available)

Problem: Passport validity

Less than 6 months validity = denied entry
Airline shouldn't have let you board
No solution except return home

Prevention:

Triple-check e-visa details
Print multiple copies
Arrive early at airport
Check passport expiry before any travel

Helpful Resources

Official Websites:

Vietnam Immigration: xuatnhapcanh.gov.vn
E-visa Portal: evisa.xuatnhapcanh.gov.vn
Embassy Locator: mofa.gov.vn

Useful Contact Numbers:

Vietnam Immigration Hotline: +84-24-3826-4026
Embassy hotlines (check specific embassy)

Apps to Download:

Google Translate (with Vietnamese offline)
Maps.me or Google Maps (offline Vietnam maps)
Grab (transportation app)

Before You Go:

Check latest visa regulations (policies can change)
Register with your embassy in Vietnam (optional but recommended for extended stays)
Get travel insurance with medical coverage
Save emergency contacts
Copy important documents

Visa Costs Summary

Visa Exemption: FREE (if eligible) E-Visa: $25 (direct application) Visa on Arrival:

Approval letter: $10-30
Stamping fee: $25-95
Photos: $5-10
Total: $40-135

Embassy Visa: $60-150 Extension: $50-200 Overstay Fine: $25 per day

Final Checklist Before Applying

✅ Passport valid 6+ months from entry date ✅ At least 2 blank passport pages ✅ Confirmed travel dates ✅ Know entry point (specific airport name) ✅ Recent passport photo ready (digital for e-visa) ✅ Credit/debit card for payment ✅ Valid email address ✅ Hotel booking/address in Vietnam ✅ Return/onward flight booked ✅ Checked current visa regulations ✅ Determined correct visa type for purpose ✅ Double-checked spelling and passport number ✅ Planned for extension if needed

Our Recommendations

For Most Tourists: Apply for e-visa directly at evisa.xuatnhapcanh.gov.vn

Cheapest
Easiest
Fastest
Most reliable
Multiple entry available

For Quick Trips: Use visa exemption if eligible

45 days plenty for most visits
No cost
No paperwork
Just arrive and enjoy

For Business Travelers: Get multiple-entry business visa

Through Vietnamese company/partner
Long validity
Easy re-entry
Professional

For Long-Term Stays: Start with e-visa, extend inside Vietnam

Easier to extend inside than apply for long visa initially
Test Vietnam before committing
Flexible approach

Need help with your Vietnam visa or planning your trip? Contact us for expert advice, visa assistance, and complete travel arrangements. We can help ensure your Vietnam adventure starts smoothly with proper documentation!

Vietnam Visa Guide 2026: Everything You Need to Know