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
Related visa guides
Visa policies change frequently. Always verify current requirements with the official embassy or consulate before applying. PermitlyHQ provides general guidance and is not a substitute for legal or immigration advice.