Vietnam Visa Guide — Every Visa Type Explained
Key highlights
- Electronic Visas (e-Visa) now available for 90 days staying period
- Options for both single and multiple-entry tourist visas
- Visa exemptions for selected nationalities for up to 45 days
- Streamlined online application process for most global travellers
- Business visas available for short-term work or trade meetings
- Clear entry requirements at 42 international border gates and airports
- No quarantine or COVID-19 testing requirements currently in place
Processing time
3-5 working days
Processing times may increase during Vietnamese public holidays such as Tet (Lunar New Year). Always apply at least two weeks before travel.
Estimated cost
$25 - $135+
- Single-entry e-Visa government fee$25.00
- Multi-entry e-Visa government fee$50.00
- Stamping fee for Business/Diplomatic visas$25.00 - $135.00
Requirements
- Passport must have at least two blank pages for entry/exit stamps.
- Passport validity must extend at least 6 months beyond the intended stay.
- Applicants must not fall under cases of suspension from entry (Article 21).
- A permanent residential address or hotel address in Vietnam must be provided.
- Digital photos must be in JPG format and under 2MB in size.
- Payment must be made via a valid international credit or debit card.
- The entry and exit points must be listed on the official list of 42 allowable gates.
- Business travellers must have an inviting/guaranteeing agency or individual in Vietnam.
Documents you'll need
- Passport valid for at least 6 months after entry date
- Digital scan of passport bio-data page (no glare)
- Recent digital passport photo (4x6cm, white background, no glasses)
- Proof of onward travel or return flight booking
- Accommodation address for your first nights in Vietnam
- Entry and exit point details (names of airports or land borders)
- Credit or debit card for online fee payment
How to apply, step by step
- 1
Apply Online
Visit the official Vietnam e-Visa portal and upload a clear scan of your passport bio-page and a separate passport-style photo.
- 2
Fill Application Details
Complete the online form with your personal details, travel dates, and intended port of entry and exit.
- 3
Pay the Visa Fee
Pay the non-refundable visa processing fee using the secure online payment gateway. Records your registration code.
- 4
Wait for Processing
The Immigration Department typically takes 3 working days to process applications. You can track your status using your registration code and email.
- 5
Download Your Visa
Once 'Granted', download the PDF e-Visa and print two copies to carry with your travel documents.
- 6
Entry at the Border
Present your passport and printed e-Visa to the immigration officer at your chosen border gate for the entry stamp.
Tips to avoid refusal
- Ensure your passport photo doesn't have glare, especially on the glasses or forehead.
- Double-check that the name on the visa matches your passport's machine-readable zone exactly.
- Do not book non-refundable flights until your e-Visa is approved.
- Check the list of 42 allowed entry ports carefully; you cannot enter through a gate not listed on your visa.
- Ensure your passport has at least 6 months of validity, as airlines will deny boarding otherwise.
- Be aware that Vietnamese holidays can delay processing by several days.
Frequently asked questions
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PermitlyHQ provides informational software tools only and does not offer legal, immigration, or consulting services. Visa policies change frequently — always verify current requirements with the official embassy or consulate before applying.