Vietnam visa requirements for tourists

E-visa and online applications

Vietnam's electronic visa (e-visa) system allows citizens of eligible countries to apply online and receive approval via email without visiting an embassy. The e-visa process typically takes 3–5 business days, though expedited options may be available at higher cost. Applicants must provide a valid passport, digital photograph, and complete the online form on official government portals. E-visas are generally valid for single entry and allow stays of 30 or 90 days depending on the visa category selected. Processing fees vary by application speed and visa duration. Ensure your passport validity extends at least 6 months beyond your intended departure date from Vietnam.

Typical processing time

3–5 business days

Passport validity requirement

6+ months beyond departure

E-visa entry validity

Single entry

Common stay durations

30 or 90 days

Visa-on-arrival and embassy options

Visa-on-arrival (VOA) services are offered by approved agencies and allow you to receive a visa letter via email, then collect your stamped visa upon arrival at Vietnamese airports or land borders. This method typically involves pre-approval and payment through a third-party service provider rather than the embassy directly. Processing times range from 1–3 business days depending on the service tier selected. Alternatively, you can apply for a tourist visa directly at a Vietnamese embassy or consulate in your home country. Embassy processing times and fees differ by location and visa category. Single-entry tourist visas typically allow 30-day stays, while multi-entry options may permit longer cumulative stays.

VOA processing time

1–3 business days

Collection point

Airport or land border on arrival

Standard tourist visa duration

30 days

Multi-entry options

Available at higher cost

Visa-free entry and passport categories

Citizens of certain countries, primarily within ASEAN (Association of Southeast Asian Nations), can enter Vietnam visa-free for short stays. ASEAN nationals typically receive 30–90 day visa-free entry depending on their citizenship. Some non-ASEAN passport holders may also qualify for visa-free entry, though this varies by bilateral agreement. Citizens of major developed nations generally do not qualify for visa-free entry and must obtain a tourist visa. Check your specific nationality against current Vietnamese government lists, as bilateral agreements change. Your passport class (ordinary, official, diplomatic) may affect visa eligibility and processing.

ASEAN visa-free typical duration

30–90 days

Requires valid passport

6+ months validity

No visa-free extension

Exit and re-enter required

Verification source

Vietnamese embassy official site

Application channels and documentation

Tourist visas can be obtained through official Vietnamese embassies, consulates, approved visa service agencies, and online e-visa platforms. Regardless of channel, standard documentation includes a completed visa application form, valid passport with blank pages, passport-sized photograph, and proof of accommodation or travel itinerary. Some applications require additional documents such as proof of financial means or employment verification. Processing fees, payment methods, and turnaround times depend on whether you apply directly to an embassy or through an intermediary service. Always verify the legitimacy of any third-party visa service before submitting payment.

Primary application channels

Embassy, consulate, online e-visa, agencies

Standard documents required

Passport, photo, application form, itinerary

Additional checks may include

Financial proof, employment verification

Verify service legitimacy

Check official embassy website

Frequently asked

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

Tourist visas typically allow 30-day or 90-day stays, depending on the visa category selected during application. Single-entry visas usually permit one continuous stay, while multi-entry visas allow multiple visits during their validity period. Your exact duration depends on the visa type issued and any conditions specified in your visa approval letter or stamp.

Can I extend my Vietnam tourist visa after arrival?

Tourist visa extensions are possible through immigration offices in Vietnam, though the process, timeline, and additional fees vary by location. Extensions are typically granted for limited periods beyond the original visa expiry. Contact a local travel agent or the nearest immigration office in Hue or Hanoi for current extension procedures and costs.

What happens if my passport expires soon?

Vietnamese authorities require at least 6 months passport validity beyond your intended departure date from Vietnam. If your passport expires within 6 months, renew it before applying for a visa. Some visa applications may be rejected if your passport validity period is insufficient.

Do I need a separate visa for Hue?

No. Hue is a city within Vietnam and does not require a separate visa. A single Vietnam tourist visa covers travel to all destinations within the country, including Hue, Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, and coastal areas.

Which visa option is fastest for urgent travel?

E-visa expedited services and visa-on-arrival typically offer the quickest turnaround, with processing times as short as 1–3 business days depending on the provider. Standard e-visa processing takes 3–5 days. Embassy visas generally require longer processing times, often 5–10 business days or more.

Are there visa fee differences by passport nationality?

Yes, visa fees and eligibility vary significantly by nationality. ASEAN citizens often qualify for visa-free entry or lower fees, while other nationalities must apply for paid tourist visas. Contact the Vietnamese embassy serving your country for nationality-specific pricing and requirements.