Vietnam visa requirements for tourists

Visa-on-arrival and e-visa options

Vietnam does not issue visas at airport gates; instead, tourists typically obtain visas before travel or use the e-visa system. The e-visa is processed online through Vietnam's official immigration portal and is available to nationals of most countries. Processing typically takes 1–3 business days, though expedited options may be available. Visa-on-arrival services are offered by licensed agencies that obtain a letter of approval from Vietnamese immigration, which you then present at the airport to receive your physical visa. This process usually requires 2–5 business days. Both options allow single or multiple entries; durations typically range from 30 to 90 days for tourist visas. Fees vary by processing speed and entry type; always verify current rates on official sources or with accredited agents, as these change regularly.

Common visa duration

30 or 90 days (tourist category)

E-visa processing time

Typically 1–3 business days

Visa-on-arrival processing

Usually 2–5 business days

Application channels

Official e-visa portal or licensed agencies

Passport nationality and entry privileges

Citizens of certain ASEAN countries (Brunei, Cambodia, Indonesia, Laos, Malaysia, Myanmar, Singapore, Thailand) enjoy visa-free entry for 14–30 days, depending on the bilateral agreement. Citizens of some G7 nations and other developed countries may also benefit from visa exemptions or extended tourist visa validity; consult your government's travel advisory or the Vietnamese Embassy website for your specific nationality. Passport holders from countries without visa-free agreements must obtain a visa before arrival or use the e-visa system. Ensure your passport is valid for at least 6 months beyond your intended departure date, as this is a standard requirement for entry into Vietnam.

ASEAN visa-free entry

14–30 days (varies by country)

Passport validity required

Minimum 6 months from departure date

Major entry requirement

Valid passport + visa or visa-free eligibility

Where to apply and official resources

The official Vietnamese e-visa portal is the most direct channel for digital applications. If applying through an agency, use only licensed operators recognized by Vietnamese immigration to avoid fraud. Alternatively, contact your nearest Vietnamese Embassy or Consulate for visa applications and current policy information. Processing fees, documentation requirements, and approval timelines vary; official sources will provide the most accurate and up-to-date information. For travelers entering via Buon Ma Thuot Airport, verify that your chosen visa provider (e-visa portal or agency) explicitly supports arrival at this airport, as some visa letters are restricted to major gateways like Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh City.

Official e-visa portal

Vietnam's immigration authority website

Alternative channels

Vietnamese Embassy/Consulate, licensed agencies

Verification step

Confirm airport of entry before final application

Frequently asked

Do I need a visa to visit Vietnam if I'm a citizen of a G7 country?

Most G7 citizens require a visa; however, some nationalities may qualify for visa exemptions. Check your specific country on the Vietnamese Ministry of Foreign Affairs website or contact your Embassy, as policies vary by nation and change periodically. When in doubt, apply for an e-visa or visa-on-arrival to avoid delays.

Can I get a visa when I arrive at Buon Ma Thuot Airport?

No. Visas are not issued on arrival. You must obtain an e-visa online or a visa-on-arrival letter from an agency before travel, then present it at the airport. Verify with your visa provider that they support Buon Ma Thuot Airport, as some letters are restricted to major hubs.

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

Tourist visas typically permit 30 or 90 days; the exact duration depends on which visa type you select at application. Verify the specific duration when you apply, as this is a key choice during the e-visa or agency application process. Extensions may be possible in-country; contact local immigration offices for details.

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

E-visa is approved online and printed at home; you present it at the airport. Visa-on-arrival involves an agency obtaining approval from immigration, which you then present at the airport to receive your physical visa. E-visa is often faster (1–3 days); visa-on-arrival may take longer but is accepted by all airports.

Do I need 6 months of passport validity to enter Vietnam?

Yes. Vietnam's standard entry requirement is a passport valid for at least 6 months from your intended departure date. Renew your passport before traveling if it does not meet this threshold, as you may be denied entry otherwise.