Vietnam visa requirements for tourists

E-visa and online entry

Vietnam's e-visa system allows many nationalities to apply online through the official government immigration portal prior to arrival. The e-visa is typically issued for single-entry or multiple-entry visits, with validity and processing timelines subject to current policy. Applications require a completed form, passport scan, and passport-style photograph. Processing generally takes several business days, though expedited options may be available at additional cost. E-visa approvals are sent by email and must be printed before arrival. Check the official Vietnamese immigration website for the complete list of eligible nationalities, current fees, and processing timeframes, as these are subject to change.

Application method

Online via official government portal

Typical validity

30 or 90 days (single or multiple entry)

Processing time

Typically 3–5 business days (standard); expedited options available

Visa-on-arrival

Visa-on-arrival (VOA) is available at Vietnamese airports and land borders for eligible nationalities. This option allows you to apply upon entry, though it typically requires pre-arrangement through an authorized third-party service or Vietnamese embassy before you travel. Travelers who choose VOA must have valid approval documentation when arriving. While VOA can be convenient for some travelers, the e-visa route is generally faster and more straightforward. VOA fees and processing duration vary and should be confirmed through your nearest Vietnamese embassy or official government channels before departure.

Available at

Airports and major land borders

Pre-arrangement

Usually required via embassy or authorized service

Eligibility

Varies by nationality; check with embassy

Visa-free entry

Citizens of ASEAN member states (Brunei, Cambodia, Indonesia, Laos, Malaysia, Myanmar, Philippines, Singapore, Thailand) typically enjoy visa-free entry for short-term tourism stays. The allowed duration of visa-free stay varies by country and is subject to change. A small number of other nationalities may also qualify for visa-free entry for limited periods; check your specific passport country's agreement with Vietnam. Visa-free entry does not extend your stay beyond the approved duration, and overstaying carries penalties. Confirm current visa-free agreements through the Vietnamese embassy or government immigration website.

ASEAN citizens

Typically visa-free for tourism (duration varies by country)

Non-ASEAN exemptions

Select nationalities; verify with embassy

Requirement

Valid passport; no approval needed before arrival

Passport requirements and application channels

All visitors require a passport valid for at least 6 months beyond your intended departure date from Vietnam. Most visa applications must be submitted through the official Vietnamese government immigration portal, Vietnamese embassies, or consulates in your home country. G7 passport holders (Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, UK, USA) generally have straightforward access to e-visa and VOA options, though specific eligibility can vary. ASEAN passport holders typically benefit from simplified entry due to regional agreements. Nationals of other countries should verify their specific visa category and application requirements well before travel. Visa policy changes frequently, so consult official sources rather than relying on outdated information.

Passport validity

Minimum 6 months beyond departure date

Application channels

Official government portal, embassies, authorized services

Processing location

Before arrival (e-visa/embassy) or at airport (VOA)

Duration of stay and overstaying

Visa duration for tourists typically ranges from 30 to 90 days depending on visa type and current policy. E-visa and VOA visas are usually single-entry or multiple-entry. Your actual stay duration is marked in your passport and must not be exceeded. Overstaying a visa incurs fines and may result in deportation and entry bans. The exact duration and any grace period depend on your specific visa approval. Always verify the exact permitted stay dates in your visa documentation upon receipt or arrival. If you need to extend your stay, apply for a visa extension through the immigration office in Vietnam before your current visa expires.

Typical tourist stay

30–90 days (varies by visa type)

Entry type

Single-entry or multiple-entry options available

Overstay penalties

Fines and potential deportation; verify with officials

Frequently asked

Can I get a visa when I arrive at Hue airport or do I need one before?

Huế does not have its own international airport; most tourists arrive via Da Nang International Airport or Ho Chi Minh City. Visa-on-arrival is available at major airports, but requires pre-arrangement. The e-visa route through Vietnam's official immigration website is typically faster and easier for advance planning.

How long does an e-visa take and how much does it cost?

Processing typically takes 3–5 business days for standard e-visa applications, with expedited options available. Fees are subject to change and vary by processing speed. Always check the official Vietnamese government immigration portal for current, accurate fee schedules before applying.

Do ASEAN citizens need a visa to visit Vietnam?

Most ASEAN citizens (members of Brunei, Cambodia, Indonesia, Laos, Malaysia, Myanmar, Philippines, Singapore, Thailand) enjoy visa-free entry for tourism stays. Duration of stay varies by citizenship. Confirm your specific country's agreement and allowed length of stay with the Vietnamese embassy before travel.

What should I do if I need to stay longer than my visa allows?

Apply for a visa extension through an immigration office in Vietnam before your current visa expires. Processing time and fees vary. Do not overstay your approved visa duration, as penalties include fines and potential bans on future entry.

Where is the official source to check visa rules?

The Vietnamese Ministry of Public Security immigration website and your nearest Vietnamese embassy or consulate provide the most current and authoritative visa information. Visa policy changes periodically, so always verify requirements directly with official sources before finalizing your travel plans.