Vietnam visa requirements for tourists

Visa-free entry and exemptions

Several nationalities qualify for visa-free entry to Vietnam for tourist purposes, typically valid for 30 to 90 days depending on your passport issuer. Citizens of ASEAN member states, as well as nationals from countries including Japan, South Korea, France, Germany, Italy, Spain, and the United Kingdom, often receive visa-free privileges. However, the list of exempt nationalities and permitted duration vary and are updated regularly by Vietnamese authorities. Travelers should confirm their specific eligibility before arrival, as visa policies shift periodically. Visa-free entry usually permits stays of 30 days for most qualifying nationalities, though some nations receive longer exemptions. Entry is typically granted on arrival without prior application, and you will receive a stamp in your passport.

Typical visa-free duration

30 days (varies by nationality)

Eligibility confirmation

Check with Vietnamese immigration or embassy

E-visa applications

Vietnam's e-visa system allows many nationalities to obtain a digital visa online before travel, valid for single or multiple entries. Applications are typically submitted through the official Vietnamese government e-visa portal and processed within 1–3 working days. The e-visa is generally issued as a PDF and must be printed and presented upon arrival at designated ports of entry, including Hai Phong International Port and Cat Bi Airport. Tourist e-visas commonly permit 30-day stays, though longer durations may be available depending on visa type and nationality. Processing fees, payment methods, and exact eligibility vary; consult the official portal for current information. The e-visa process eliminates the need to visit an embassy in advance.

Typical processing time

1–3 working days

Validity for arrival

Usually valid 90 days from issue

Permitted stay duration

Typically 30 days for tourist visa

Visa-on-arrival (VOA)

Visa-on-arrival remains available for certain nationalities at Vietnam's international airports and ports, including Hai Phong's facilities. This option allows you to obtain a visa stamp upon arrival by presenting required documents. The VOA process typically requires a completed application form, passport photo, and payment of a processing fee; exact requirements and costs fluctuate. Processing at the port can take 1–2 hours depending on volume. Many travelers prefer e-visa for convenience since it reduces processing time at arrival. Eligibility and fees for visa-on-arrival should be verified with the Vietnamese immigration authority or your nearest Vietnamese embassy, as policies change frequently.

Processing time at port

Typically 1–2 hours

Required documents

Valid passport, application form, photo

Passport strength and entry considerations

Passport strength affects visa eligibility and processing. Nationals of G7 countries (Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, UK, USA) typically access visa-free entry or streamlined e-visa approval. ASEAN passport holders—including nationals of Cambodia, Indonesia, Laos, Malaysia, Myanmar, Philippines, Singapore, Thailand—often enjoy extended visa-free durations (typically 30 days). Citizens of other nations may require e-visa or visa-on-arrival; processing and eligibility vary widely. Your passport must be valid for at least six months beyond your intended departure from Vietnam. Travelers should verify their specific passport class eligibility before booking, as entry terms differ substantially by issuer.

Minimum passport validity

6 months beyond departure

G7 typical entry path

Visa-free or e-visa

ASEAN typical entry path

Visa-free (30+ days)

Official sources and verification

Visa requirements change periodically due to policy updates and diplomatic agreements. The Vietnamese Ministry of Foreign Affairs and official Vietnamese government e-visa portal (goi.gov.vn) provide authoritative information. Many travelers also consult their nearest Vietnamese embassy or consulate for specific guidance on their nationality. UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO), US State Department, and Australian Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT) publish travel advisories that reference visa requirements. Immigration officers at Hai Phong port of entry can clarify entry terms, though verification in advance prevents delays. Allow 4–6 weeks before travel to complete e-visa or embassy visa applications if needed.

Official e-visa portal

goi.gov.vn

Recommended verification timeline

4–6 weeks before travel

Frequently asked

Do I need a visa to enter Vietnam if I am a UK citizen?

UK citizens typically qualify for visa-free entry to Vietnam for 30 days. For longer stays or if you require confirmation, verify with the Vietnamese government e-visa portal or your nearest Vietnamese embassy, as eligibility and durations are subject to policy changes.

Can I obtain a visa on arrival at Hai Phong?

Yes, visa-on-arrival is available at Hai Phong International Port and Cat Bi Airport for eligible nationalities. Processing typically takes 1–2 hours. However, many travelers find e-visa quicker; check official sources for your nationality's current eligibility and fees.

How long does an e-visa take to process for Vietnam?

E-visa applications submitted through the official Vietnamese government portal are typically processed within 1–3 working days. Once issued, the e-visa is valid for 90 days from the issue date, though your permitted stay is usually 30 days for tourist visas.

What is the minimum passport validity required for entry to Vietnam?

Your passport must be valid for at least six months beyond your intended departure date from Vietnam. Ensure your passport meets this requirement before applying for a visa or traveling, as immigration officials may deny entry with insufficient validity.

Are there different visa durations for ASEAN and non-ASEAN nationals?

Yes. ASEAN passport holders typically receive visa-free entry for 30 days or longer, while non-ASEAN nationalities may have shorter visa-free durations or require e-visa or visa-on-arrival. Exact durations vary by nationality; consult the official Vietnamese government sources for your specific passport class.

How do I apply for an e-visa to Vietnam?

E-visas are applied for online through the official Vietnamese government portal (goi.gov.vn). You will need a valid passport, passport photo, and to complete an application form. The fee and processing timeline vary; current details are available on the official portal.