Quick Answer: Many nationalities need a visa for Vietnam. The e-visa (online, $25, 90 days) is the easiest option. Some countries are visa-exempt for 14–45 days. Apply at evisa.xuatnhapcanh.gov.vn.
Visa Overview
Vietnam's visa policy has become much more tourist-friendly in recent years. The e-visa system was expanded in 2023 to allow 90-day stays with multiple entry, making it one of the easiest visas in Southeast Asia to obtain.
There are four main ways to enter Vietnam legally as a tourist:
| Type | Duration | Cost | How to Apply |
|---|---|---|---|
| Visa Exempt | 14–45 days | Free | Just show up with passport |
| E-Visa | 90 days (single/multiple) | $25 | Online at official website |
| Visa on Arrival | 30–90 days | $25–50 + stamping fee | Pre-arrange online, pick up at airport |
| Embassy Visa | 30–90 days | $50–100 | Apply at Vietnamese embassy |
Visa-Exempt Countries
Citizens of these countries can enter Vietnam without a visa. The exemption period varies by nationality:
45-Day Exemption
- Europe: Germany, France, Italy, Spain, United Kingdom, Sweden, Denmark, Finland, Norway
30-Day Exemption
- Asia: Japan, South Korea, Singapore, Malaysia, Thailand, Indonesia, Philippines, Cambodia, Laos
21-Day Exemption
- Asia: Myanmar, Brunei
14-Day Exemption
- Other: Belarus, Russia
⚠️ Important: Visa-exempt stays cannot be extended in-country. If you want to stay longer, apply for an e-visa before arriving. Passport must be valid for 6+ months with at least 2 blank pages.
E-Visa (Recommended)
The e-visa is the easiest and cheapest way to get a visa for Vietnam. Since the 2023 expansion, it now allows 90-day stays with multiple entry — perfect for travelers who want to explore neighboring countries and return.
How to Apply
- Go to evisa.xuatnhapcanh.gov.vn (official government site)
- Fill in the online form (personal info, travel dates, entry point)
- Upload a passport photo (4×6cm, white background) and passport data page scan
- Pay $25 USD by credit card
- Wait 3 business days for processing
- Download and print your e-visa
E-Visa Details
- Duration: Up to 90 days
- Entry: Single or multiple entry
- Cost: $25 USD (non-refundable)
- Processing: 3 business days (may take longer during peak season)
- Entry points: 33 international checkpoints (airports, land borders, seaports)
💡 Tip: Apply at least 1–2 weeks before your trip. Don't use third-party websites that charge $50–80 extra — the official site is just $25. Print 2 copies of your e-visa.
Visa on Arrival
Visa on arrival is available at major Vietnamese airports (Hanoi, HCMC, Da Nang, Nha Trang). You need a pre-approval letter from a Vietnamese travel agency before you fly.
How It Works
- Apply online through a Vietnamese travel agency for a "visa approval letter"
- Receive the letter by email (1–2 business days)
- Print the letter and bring it to the airport
- Pay the stamping fee ($25 for single entry, $50 for multiple) at the airport
- Get your visa stamped in your passport
Requirements
- Passport valid for 6+ months
- 2 passport photos (4×6cm)
- Printed approval letter
- Cash for stamping fee (USD or VND)
⚠️ Note: Visa on arrival only works at airports. If you're entering by land or sea, you need an e-visa or embassy visa. The e-visa is generally the better option for most travelers.
Embassy Visa
If your nationality isn't eligible for the e-visa or visa exemption, you'll need to apply at a Vietnamese embassy or consulate in your home country.
When to Use This Option
- Your nationality isn't eligible for e-visa
- You need a visa longer than 90 days
- You're entering through a non-standard entry point
- You prefer having the visa in your passport before traveling
Processing
- Standard: 5–7 business days
- Express: 2–3 business days (extra fee)
- Cost: $50–100 depending on visa type and nationality
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a visa for Vietnam?
It depends on your nationality. Citizens of 24+ countries are visa-exempt for 14–45 days (including UK, Germany, France, Japan, South Korea, Singapore). Citizens of 80+ countries can apply for an e-visa online. Check the official Vietnam Immigration website for your specific nationality.
How long does the Vietnam e-visa take?
The Vietnam e-visa typically takes 3 business days to process. During peak travel seasons (December–February), it may take 5–7 days. Apply at least 1–2 weeks before your trip to be safe. The cost is $25 USD, paid by credit card on the official site.
Can I extend my visa in Vietnam?
E-visas and visa on arrival can be extended through immigration offices in major cities like Hanoi and HCMC. Extensions cost $30–80 and take 5–7 business days. Visa-exempt stays cannot be extended — you must leave the country and re-enter.
What is the cheapest way to get a Vietnam visa?
The e-visa at $25 USD is the cheapest option for most nationalities. It allows stays up to 90 days with single or multiple entry. Apply directly on the official government website (evisa.xuatnhapcanh.gov.vn) to avoid third-party markups that charge $50–80 extra.