Vietnam Visa Guide: Complete Guide to Vietnam Entry Requirements, E-Visa & Visa-Free Travel

Planning a trip to Vietnam starts with checking whether you need a visa, how long you can stay and which type of entry permission is suitable for your itinerary. Vietnam has significantly simplified its visa system in recent years. Citizens of all countries and territories can currently apply for a Vietnam e-visa, with e-visas available for stays of up to 90 days and for either single or multiple entry. Vietnam also has visa-exemption programs for citizens of selected countries, with some travelers currently able to enter without a visa for up to 45 days.

For most travelers, the important questions are simple: Do I need a visa? How long can I stay? Should I choose single or multiple entry? Which airport or border crossing can I use? How do I apply? What information do I need? This guide explains the process and the practical details you should check before traveling.

Do I Need a Visa for Vietnam?

Whether you need a visa depends primarily on your nationality, passport and planned length of stay. Vietnam currently offers visa-free entry to citizens of a number of countries under bilateral and unilateral exemption programs. Travelers who do not qualify for visa exemption can generally apply for an e-visa before traveling. The e-visa system is available to citizens of all countries and territories.

Do not assume that your nationality automatically means you need an e-visa. Check the current rules for your passport before making your application because Vietnam’s exemption policies can change.

Vietnam E-Visa: The Most Important Option for Tourists

The Vietnam e-visa is an electronic visa issued through Vietnam’s immigration system. It can be used for stays of up to 90 days and can be issued for single or multiple entry. Since August 15, 2023, citizens of all countries and territories have been eligible to apply.

For travelers planning a conventional holiday, the e-visa is often the simplest option if they are not eligible for visa-free entry.

A single-entry e-visa is suitable when you enter Vietnam once and remain in the country until departure. A multiple-entry e-visa is more useful if your itinerary includes leaving Vietnam and returning, such as a journey combining Vietnam with Cambodia, Laos, Thailand or another neighboring country.

How Long Is a Vietnam E-Visa Valid?

A Vietnam e-visa can be valid for a maximum of 90 days. Depending on the visa issued, it can allow either one entry or multiple entries during the validity period.

The important point is that you should check the exact validity dates printed on your approved e-visa. Do not rely only on the date you submitted your application.

If your visa states that you may enter from a particular date, arriving before that date can cause problems even if you have already received the approval.

Vietnam E-Visa Fees

The current official e-visa fee is:

US$25 – Single-entry e-visa

US$50 – Multiple-entry e-visa

The official immigration portal states that the e-visa processing fee is paid electronically and that the fee is not refunded if the application is refused.

Be careful when using unofficial websites because some agencies charge additional service fees on top of the government visa fee.

How to Apply for a Vietnam E-Visa

The application process is completed online. You should prepare your passport information, a passport data-page image and a suitable portrait photograph before starting.

The basic process is:

Step 1: Prepare your passport and required photographs.

Step 2: Complete the online e-visa application.

Step 3: Upload the passport information page and photograph.

Step 4: Carefully review all information before submitting.

Step 5: Pay the applicable e-visa fee.

Step 6: Keep your registration code.

Step 7: Check the application status online.

Step 8: If approved, download and print your e-visa.

Vietnam’s immigration portal states that applications are normally processed within three working days, although travelers should apply well in advance rather than relying on the minimum processing time.

Information You Need for the E-Visa Application

Prepare the following information before starting your application:

• Full name exactly as shown on your passport
• Date of birth
• Nationality
• Passport number
• Passport issue and expiry information
• Passport photograph
• Personal photograph
• Intended entry date
• Intended exit date
• Intended entry point
• Intended exit point
• Accommodation information
• Email address
• Payment card or other accepted electronic payment method

The most important rule is accuracy. A spelling mistake in your name, an incorrect passport number or another mismatch can cause complications.

Your Name Must Match Your Passport

Pay particular attention to names because passport formats vary between countries.

Enter your information exactly according to the instructions on the application and your passport. Do not casually shorten your name, change the order of names or omit information because you normally use a different format when booking hotels or flights.

Before paying, review every field.

Check Your Passport Number Carefully

The passport number is one of the most important pieces of information on your application.

Check:

• Every letter
• Every number
• Similar-looking characters
• Passport expiry date
• Nationality
• Date of birth

If you accidentally enter incorrect passport information, do not assume you can simply correct it after approval. It is better to identify mistakes before submitting the application.

Passport Requirements for Vietnam E-Visa

You must hold a valid passport to apply for a Vietnam e-visa. The official immigration system specifically requires applicants to have a valid passport and to be outside Vietnam when applying for the e-visa.

Before traveling, make sure the passport you carry is the same passport used for the visa application. If you receive a new passport after applying, check carefully whether a new visa application is required.

Print Your Vietnam E-Visa

Even though the e-visa is electronic, travelers should print a copy of the approved visa and carry it with their passport.

Keep a digital copy on your phone as a backup, but do not rely exclusively on a phone screen. A printed copy is useful at airline check-in and immigration.

Check Your Entry Point Before Flying

This is one of the most important practical Vietnam visa tips.

Your e-visa is valid for entry and exit through designated border gates. Vietnam has expanded the list of eligible entry and exit points, and the government added another 41 border gates in December 2025, bringing the total number of designated e-visa entry/exit points to 83.

Therefore, check that the airport, land border or seaport you plan to use is permitted for your e-visa.

Vietnam E-Visa Airports

Major airports accepting e-visa travelers include:

• Noi Bai International Airport – Hanoi
• Tan Son Nhat International Airport – Ho Chi Minh City
• Da Nang International Airport
• Cam Ranh International Airport
• Cat Bi International Airport
• Phu Bai International Airport
• Phu Quoc International Airport
• Can Tho International Airport
• Lien Khuong International Airport
• Phu Cat International Airport
• Dong Hoi International Airport
• Van Don International Airport
• Tho Xuan International Airport

Vietnam has continued expanding the list of permitted e-visa entry points, so travelers should verify their specific airport before departure.

Can You Enter Vietnam Through a Land Border With an E-Visa?

Yes. Vietnam’s e-visa system permits entry through designated land border gates.

This is particularly useful for travelers combining Vietnam with Cambodia, Laos or China.

Examples of established land border points include Moc Bai, Lao Cai, Huu Nghi, Lao Bao, Ha Tien and Mong Cai, along with additional border gates added under the expanded system.

Always check your exact border crossing before finalizing your itinerary.

Can You Enter Vietnam by Cruise With an E-Visa?

Yes, designated seaports can be used by e-visa travelers. Vietnam has numerous approved maritime entry points, including ports associated with Ha Long Bay, Da Nang, Nha Trang, Quy Nhon, Vung Tau, Ho Chi Minh City and other coastal destinations. The list has also been expanded.

If you are arriving on a cruise, confirm the exact port of immigration clearance rather than assuming every Vietnamese port accepts e-visa entry.

Vietnam Visa Exemption

Vietnam offers visa-free entry to citizens of selected countries. The rules vary by nationality and can change, so travelers should always check the current exemption applicable to their passport.

As of 2026, Vietnam has 45-day unilateral visa exemption policies covering citizens of multiple countries. The government has also introduced additional 45-day visa exemptions for citizens of 12 European countries under a tourism development program running from August 15, 2025 through August 14, 2028.

The 12 countries covered by that program are:

• Belgium
• Bulgaria
• Croatia
• Czech Republic
• Hungary
• Luxembourg
• Netherlands
• Poland
• Romania
• Slovakia
• Slovenia
• Switzerland

These travelers may stay for up to 45 days for tourism, subject to Vietnam’s entry conditions.

Countries With 45-Day Visa-Free Entry

Vietnam’s current unilateral visa-exemption arrangements also include citizens of countries such as:

• Germany
• France
• Italy
• Spain
• United Kingdom
• Russia
• Japan
• South Korea
• Denmark
• Sweden
• Norway
• Finland
• Belarus

The exemption allows eligible travelers to stay for up to 45 days under the applicable policy.

Because visa policies can change, always verify the current rule for your nationality before departure.

Visa-Free Entry Does Not Mean Unlimited Entry

If you are visa-exempt, check the conditions carefully. Visa-free entry normally provides a defined period of stay rather than unlimited residence.

For example, if you are eligible for 45 days, you should not assume you can simply remain for 60 or 90 days without taking additional immigration action.

If you want to stay longer, consider applying for an appropriate visa before traveling or checking whether another lawful immigration option is available.

Single-Entry vs Multiple-Entry E-Visa

Choose a single-entry e-visa if your itinerary is something like:

Hanoi → Ha Long Bay → Hoi An → Hue → Ho Chi Minh City → Mekong Delta → Departure

You enter Vietnam once and remain in the country throughout the trip.

Choose a multiple-entry e-visa if your itinerary includes:

Vietnam → Cambodia → Vietnam

or

Vietnam → Laos → Vietnam

or another international trip where you leave Vietnam and return during the visa validity period.

The current official fees are US$25 for single entry and US$50 for multiple entry.

Vietnam Visa for a Two-Week Holiday

If you are planning a standard two-week vacation and are not visa-exempt, a 90-day single-entry e-visa is generally more than sufficient.

For example:

Day 1: Hanoi arrival
Days 2–3: Hanoi
Days 4–5: Ha Long Bay
Days 6–8: Hoi An
Days 9–10: Hue
Days 11–13: Ho Chi Minh City
Day 14: Departure

You do not need a visa that exactly matches your number of vacation days. The e-visa provides a maximum validity period within which you can stay according to the visa granted.

Vietnam Visa for a Three-Week Trip

A 21-day trip fits comfortably within a 90-day e-visa.

A route could include:

Hanoi → Ha Long Bay → Ha Giang → Hoi An → Hue → Ho Chi Minh City → Mekong Delta → Phu Quoc

If you remain in Vietnam throughout the journey, a single-entry e-visa is normally sufficient if you are not visa-exempt.

Vietnam Visa for a Long Trip

The 90-day e-visa provides much more flexibility than a short holiday visa. Travelers can use it for extended journeys covering several regions.

A longer itinerary could combine:

Hanoi → Ha Long Bay → Sapa → Ha Giang → Hoi An → Hue → Phong Nha → Ho Chi Minh City → Mekong Delta → Phu Quoc → Con Dao

If you intend to leave and re-enter Vietnam during this period, make sure you choose the appropriate multiple-entry option.

Vietnam Visa for Vietnam and Cambodia

If your itinerary includes Cambodia, pay particular attention to your entry and exit pattern.

For example:

Hanoi → Ha Long Bay → Hoi An → Ho Chi Minh City → Cambodia

requires only one Vietnam entry if you depart Vietnam permanently after Ho Chi Minh City.

However:

Hanoi → Ho Chi Minh City → Cambodia → Phu Quoc

may involve returning to Vietnam, depending on your transportation arrangements. In that case, a multiple-entry visa may be appropriate if you are not visa-exempt.

Vietnam Visa for Vietnam and Laos

The same principle applies when combining Vietnam with Laos.

If you enter Vietnam, travel through the country, cross into Laos and never return to Vietnam, a single-entry visa may be sufficient.

If you plan to return to Vietnam after visiting Laos, check that you have a multiple-entry visa or otherwise qualify for re-entry.

Vietnam Visa and Phu Quoc

Phu Quoc has historically had special immigration provisions under certain circumstances, but travelers should not assume that an island stay automatically removes all Vietnam visa requirements for their entire itinerary.

If you are planning a broader trip such as:

Hanoi → Ho Chi Minh City → Phu Quoc

check your visa requirements for the entire journey rather than relying on a special island-related exemption.

Vietnam Visa for Families

Each traveler should have the appropriate travel documentation. When children are traveling, check their passport and visa requirements separately.

The immigration system also provides specific instructions concerning children under 14 in certain application circumstances, particularly where they share a passport with a parent or guardian.

For families, it is best to prepare all passports and application information together and check every application individually before payment.

Vietnam Visa for Children

Do not assume that a child automatically receives the same visa status as a parent.

Check the child’s:

• Passport
• Nationality
• Age
• Visa-exemption status
• Planned length of stay
• Entry and exit points

If the child has a separate passport, verify whether a separate visa application is required.

Vietnam Visa for Older Travelers

There is generally no special tourist visa category simply because someone is older. The normal nationality and passport rules apply.

Older travelers should focus more on ensuring that the visa dates, passport information, travel insurance and transportation arrangements are correct before departure.

Can You Extend a Vietnam E-Visa?

Do not build your itinerary around the assumption that you can easily extend your e-visa after arrival.

If you know in advance that you want to stay for a long period, plan your visa situation before entering Vietnam. Immigration rules and procedures can change, so long-stay travelers should verify the current options rather than relying on outdated advice.

Can You Apply for a Vietnam Visa While Already in Vietnam?

The e-visa application system is primarily designed for foreigners outside Vietnam who want to enter Vietnam. The official immigration portal states that foreigners outside Vietnam can personally apply for an e-visa.

If you are already in Vietnam and need to change your immigration status or stay longer, use the appropriate immigration procedure rather than assuming you can simply submit a normal tourist e-visa application from inside the country.

What Happens at Vietnam Immigration?

When you arrive, immigration officers will check your passport and immigration documentation.

Have the following easily accessible:

• Passport
• Printed e-visa if applicable
• Visa information
• Arrival details
• Hotel address if requested

Make sure the passport you present matches the passport used for your visa.

Check Your Visa Before Leaving Home

Before your flight, check:

Name

Passport number

Date of birth

Nationality

Visa type

Entry date

Exit date

Entry point

Number of entries

This simple check can prevent major problems at the airport.

Do Not Arrive Before Your Visa Start Date

If your e-visa begins on August 20, for example, you should not plan to arrive on August 19.

Your visa is valid according to the dates shown on the document. Plan your international flight around the visa validity dates, not the other way around.

Do Not Stay Beyond Your Authorized Period

Check the final date of your authorized stay carefully.

Overstaying can create immigration problems and may result in penalties. If your plans change during your trip, deal with the situation through the appropriate immigration channels rather than simply remaining beyond the permitted date.

What to Do If Your E-Visa Is Delayed

Do not wait until the day before your flight to apply.

Although the official system indicates a normal processing time of three working days, applications can experience issues because of incorrect information, payment problems, technical issues or other circumstances.

Apply well before your departure date and check the application status using your registration information.

What to Do If Your E-Visa Application Is Refused

The official e-visa fee is non-refundable if the application is refused.

If your application is unsuccessful, review the information carefully and determine the reason before submitting another application or seeking professional assistance.

Do not submit multiple applications with inconsistent passport information.

Common Vietnam Visa Mistakes

One of the most common mistakes is entering the wrong passport number. Other problems include spelling the name incorrectly, entering the wrong date of birth, choosing the wrong entry date, selecting an incorrect entry point and assuming that an airport or border crossing accepts e-visas without checking.

Another common mistake is buying an international flight before checking whether the traveler is visa-exempt or needs an e-visa.

The best approach is simple: check your visa status first, apply early, verify every detail and keep a printed copy of the approved visa.

Vietnam Visa Checklist

Before traveling to Vietnam, check the following:

☐ Passport is valid
☐ Visa requirement checked for your nationality
☐ E-visa application completed if required
☐ Name matches passport
☐ Passport number is correct
☐ Date of birth is correct
☐ Entry date is correct
☐ Exit date is appropriate
☐ Entry airport or border gate is correct
☐ Single or multiple entry selected correctly
☐ E-visa approved
☐ E-visa printed
☐ Digital backup saved
☐ Hotel address available
☐ Travel insurance arranged
☐ Flight itinerary checked

Vietnam Visa: Quick Reference

The current e-visa information and fees are published by Vietnam’s National Immigration portal, while visa-exemption policies are published through official Vietnamese tourism and government information channels.

Best Visa Strategy for Different Travelers

7–10 day traveler: Check whether you qualify for visa-free entry; otherwise a single-entry e-visa is normally sufficient.

14-day traveler: A single-entry 90-day e-visa is generally suitable if you are not visa-exempt.

21-day traveler: A single-entry e-visa is usually sufficient for a continuous Vietnam itinerary.

Vietnam + Cambodia: Choose multiple entry only if you will return to Vietnam after leaving.

Vietnam + Laos: Multiple entry may be necessary if you cross out of Vietnam and later return.

Long Vietnam trip: The 90-day e-visa provides substantial flexibility.

Frequent regional travel: Consider whether multiple entry is more suitable.

Plan Your Vietnam Trip After Your Visa Is Confirmed

Once your visa situation is clear, you can build your itinerary around the country’s major regions. A first-time journey can start in Hanoi, continue to Ha Long Bay, then fly to Hoi An and Hue, before continuing to Ho Chi Minh City and the Mekong Delta. Travelers with more time can add Ha Giang, Sapa, Phong Nha, Da Nang, Da Lat, Mui Ne, Phu Quoc or Con Dao.

For longer premium journeys, domestic flights are particularly useful because they allow you to cover Vietnam’s long north-south geography without losing entire days to overland transportation.

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