Vietnam visa requirements: entry options for tourists

E-visa and visa-on-arrival

Vietnam's e-visa program allows many nationalities to apply online before arrival, with approval typically taking 2–3 working days. Applicants submit scanned passport data pages and photographs through the official immigration website. Visa-on-arrival is another common pathway: approved travelers receive a Letter of Approval by email, which they present at a Vietnamese airport or land border to receive a physical visa stamp. Both options typically permit 30-day single-entry or 90-day tourist stays, though durations and fees vary by nationality and are subject to change. Processing fees are generally modest but fluctuate; confirm current charges with official sources. Citizens of certain ASEAN nations and G7 countries enjoy more favorable terms; check the Vietnamese Ministry of Public Security Immigration Department website for your passport's classification.

Common tourist visa duration

30 days (single-entry) or longer durations for some nationalities

E-visa processing time

Typically 2–3 working days from application

Application channel

Official Vietnamese immigration website or embassy

Visa stamp location options

Major airports and land border crossings

Visa-free and exemption categories

Vietnam grants visa-free entry or visa-exemption periods to nationals of certain countries, particularly ASEAN member states and holders of specific diplomatic or official passports. Visa-free stays typically range from 14 to 90 days depending on nationality and agreement terms. For example, some Southeast Asian passport holders may enter without a visa for up to 90 days, while others receive shorter exemption windows. These exemptions are subject to regular review and bilateral agreement changes, so always confirm your eligibility and permitted duration with official sources before departure. Travelers not eligible for exemptions must obtain an e-visa or visa-on-arrival.

ASEAN nationals

Typically 14–90 days visa-free (varies by country)

Non-exempted travelers

E-visa or visa-on-arrival required

Passport requirements and eligibility

A valid passport is mandatory for all foreign visitors to Vietnam. Most passports must be valid for at least six months beyond your intended stay, though some nationalities and visa categories may have different requirements. Children and minors typically require their own valid passports; family passports (if recognized in your country) may face restrictions. Check official Vietnamese immigration guidance and your own country's passport authority to confirm validity rules and any special conditions before booking travel. Passport-class differences (G7, ASEAN, etc.) determine visa fee levels and processing priorities, but detailed schedules are published by the Ministry of Public Security and change periodically.

Minimum passport validity

Typically 6 months beyond intended stay

Documentation required

Valid passport data page and photograph

Children and minors

Own valid passport required

Where to apply and official resources

Apply for an e-visa through Vietnam's official immigration website (listed under the Ministry of Public Security). For visa-on-arrival, you may apply online through the same official channels or via the official portal; processing includes a Letter of Approval sent to your email. Physical visas stamped at ports of entry are issued by Vietnam Immigration Control at airports and land borders. Do not rely on unofficial third-party visa services or agents unless you verify they are licensed and directly connected to the official immigration system. Processing fees and timelines vary; budget extra time during peak travel seasons. Contact your nearest Vietnamese embassy or consulate for country-specific guidance, passport-class determinations, and any special circumstances.

Official visa application

Vietnamese Ministry of Public Security Immigration website

Physical visa issuance

Major airports (Saigon, Hanoi, Da Nang) and land borders

Processing time for e-visa

2–3 working days (standard)

Frequently asked

Do I need a visa to visit My Tho, Vietnam?

Most foreign visitors require a visa to enter Vietnam. Exceptions apply to nationals of certain ASEAN countries and a small number of other nations. Check official Vietnamese immigration sources to confirm whether your nationality qualifies for visa-free entry. If not, you will need an e-visa or visa-on-arrival.

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

E-visa allows you to apply and receive approval online before travel; you print the approval and present it at entry, where you receive a physical stamp. Visa-on-arrival similarly requires online approval but may involve slightly different processing or payment channels. Both typically take 2–3 working days. Processing fees and exact procedures differ; consult official sources for your nationality.

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

Tourist visas typically permit 30-day or 90-day stays, though durations vary by nationality and visa type. Some ASEAN nationals may qualify for longer visa-free periods. Confirm your specific entitlement through official Vietnamese immigration channels before departure, as policies change.

Can I extend my visa while in Vietnam?

Yes, visa extensions are generally available through the Immigration Department or via licensed travel agencies in major cities. Processing fees and duration of extension vary. Contact the local immigration office or your hotel concierge for guidance; extensions typically require a small fee and a few working days to process.

What if my passport is nearly expired?

Most visas require your passport to be valid for at least six months beyond your intended departure date from Vietnam. If your passport expires soon, renew it with your home country's passport authority before applying for a Vietnamese visa. Visas are issued only if your passport meets validity requirements.

Is there a visa application fee, and how much does it cost?

E-visa and visa-on-arrival typically involve small processing fees, which vary by nationality and are set by the Vietnamese government. Fees are modest but change periodically. Consult the official Vietnamese immigration website or your embassy for current fee amounts before applying.