Vietnam Visa Guide

Do I need a visa to visit Vietnam in 2026?

It depends on your nationality. Citizens of 39 countries can enter Vietnam visa-free for 14 to 45 days — including the UK, France, Germany, Italy, Spain, Japan, and South Korea (45 days) and ASEAN nations like Thailand, Singapore, and Malaysia (30 days). All other nationalities can apply for an e-visa online at evisa.xuatnhapcanh.gov.vn — it costs $25 USD (single entry) or $50 USD (multiple entry), allows stays up to 90 days, and is accepted at all 83 entry points. Vietnam also offers Visa on Arrival at international airports with a pre-approved letter.

How do I apply for a Vietnam e-visa online?

To apply for a Vietnam e-visa: (1) Go to the official portal evisa.xuatnhapcanh.gov.vn. (2) Fill in the application form with your personal and travel details. (3) Upload a digital passport photo (4x6 cm, white background, JPEG) and a scan of your passport data page. (4) Pay $25 USD for single entry or $50 USD for multiple entry. (5) Wait 3-5 business days (standard) or 8 hours (urgent processing). (6) Download and print your approved e-visa. The e-visa is available to citizens of ALL countries worldwide since August 2023 and allows stays of up to 90 days.

Which countries can visit Vietnam without a visa in 2026?

39 countries currently have visa-free access to Vietnam. The 45-day visa-exempt countries include: United Kingdom, France, Germany, Italy, Spain, Japan, South Korea, Denmark, Finland, Norway, Sweden, and Belarus. The 30-day visa-exempt countries include ASEAN members: Thailand, Singapore, Malaysia, Indonesia, Philippines, Laos, Cambodia, Myanmar, and Brunei. For stays beyond the exemption period, any nationality can apply for an e-visa (up to 90 days, $25-50).

How much does a Vietnam visa cost in USD?

Vietnam e-visa: $25 USD (single entry) or $50 USD (multiple entry). Visa on Arrival: $25-50 USD processing fee plus $25 (single) or $50 (multiple) stamping fee payable in cash at the airport. Embassy/consulate visa: varies by country, typically $25-$150 USD. Visa exemption: completely free for eligible nationals. The e-visa is the most cost-effective option for most travelers — apply at evisa.xuatnhapcanh.gov.vn.

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

The Vietnam e-visa is applied for entirely online and can be used at all 83 entry points (airports, land borders, and seaports). Visa on Arrival (VOA) requires a pre-approved letter from a travel agency and is ONLY available at international airports — you cannot use VOA at land borders or seaports. Both cost $25-50 and allow up to 90 days. The e-visa is recommended because it is simpler, cheaper (no stamping fee), and accepted at all entry points including land borders from China, Laos, and Cambodia.

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

Maximum stay depends on your visa type. Visa-exempt nationals: 14-45 days depending on nationality. E-visa holders: up to 90 days (single or multiple entry). Visa on Arrival: up to 90 days. Business and work visas: up to 1-2 years. You can extend your stay through the Vietnam Immigration Department or a local travel agency before your current visa expires. Extensions typically cost $10-50 USD and add approximately 30 days.

What documents do I need to apply for a Vietnam visa?

For a Vietnam e-visa you need: (1) a valid passport with at least 6 months remaining validity and 2 blank pages, (2) a digital passport photo (4x6 cm, white background, JPEG format, under 1MB), and (3) a scanned copy of your passport data page. For Visa on Arrival: the same documents plus a pre-approved approval letter and 2 printed passport photos (4x6 cm). For embassy visas: passport, completed application form, passport photos, and supporting documents specific to your visa category (business letter, enrollment letter, etc.).

Can I enter Vietnam by land border with an e-visa?

Yes, absolutely. Since August 2023, Vietnam e-visas are accepted at all 83 designated entry points, including 13 international airports, 27 land border crossings, and 39+ seaports. Land borders include crossings from China (Mong Cai, Huu Nghi, Lao Cai), from Laos (Cau Treo, Cha Lo, Lao Bao, Na Meo), and from Cambodia (Moc Bai, Xa Mat, Tinh Bien). Important: Visa on Arrival (VOA) is NOT accepted at land borders or seaports — only at international airports.