Guides
How to Get a Visa to Vietnam
As of 2026, most foreign nationals traveling to Vietnam are required to obtain a visa prior to entry. The most common and convenient option is the Vietnam e-visa, which allows a 90-day stay with multiple-entry privileges. Citizens of 13 designated countries, including the United Kingdom, Germany, France, Japan, and South Korea, are eligible for visa-free entry for stays of up to 45 days. Regardless of visa type, all passports must have a minimum remaining validity of 6 months at the time of entry.
Unsure whether your nationality qualifies for visa-free entry? Check our full Vietnam visa exemption list by country.
What Documents Do I Need for a Vietnam Visa Application?
Ensure the following documents are prepared before submitting your Vietnam visa application:
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Passport Requirements |
Your original passport must remain valid for a minimum of 6 months beyond your intended stay in Vietnam. |
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Photo Requirements |
Two passport-sized photos: 4×6 cm or 2×2 inches, white background, no glasses. |
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Vietnam E-visa |
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Vietnam Visa on Arrival |
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For step-by-step instructions, refer to our dedicated guides on how to apply for a Vietnam e-visa and how Vietnam visa on arrival.
1. Apply through the Local Embassy
Most travelers obtain their business visa or tourist visa through a Vietnamese Embassy or Consulate in their country of residence or a transit country prior to entering Vietnam.
For a tourist visa application, the following documents are required:
- Application form: Complete the form online at https://visa.mofa.gov.vn or download and fill out the PDF version
- Original passport: Must be valid for at least 6 months from the intended date of entry. A passport copy is sufficient if applying for a loose-leaf visa
- Passport-sized photo: One photo without glasses. An additional photo is required for loose-leaf visa applications
- Visa fee: Payable by money order, cashier’s check, or company check. Cash is accepted for in-person submissions. Fees vary by visa type
- Return envelope: A prepaid self-addressed envelope is required if you wish to have your passport returned by post (FedEx or USPS recommended)
For business visa applications, a letter of support from your sponsoring agency or company in Vietnam is also required.
Please note that application forms and fees may vary by country. Check directly with the Vietnamese Embassy or Consulate in your location before submitting.
In-person processing typically takes 7–10 working days, while mail applications generally take 2–3 weeks depending on the service used.
Most foreign travelers need a valid visa to enter Vietnam.
2. Apply for Visa on Arrival
Visa on arrival is available for travelers entering Vietnam by air through one of 8 designated international airports. The process involves the following steps:
- Submit an online application for the pre-approved visa letter
- Receive the approval letter within 3–5 working days. In emergency cases, processing can be completed within 2–3 hours
- Print all required documents, prepare the stamping fee in cash, and present everything at the visa on arrival counter upon landing at a Vietnam international airport
Note: Visa on arrival is applicable to air travel only.
3. Apply Online for a Vietnam E-visa
The Vietnam e-visa is the simplest and most convenient way to obtain entry authorization. The entire process is completed online with no embassy visit required:
- Complete the secure online application form
- Upload a scan of your passport bio page and a passport-sized photo
- Pay the e-visa government fee
- Wait 5–7 working days for the e-visa to be delivered to your email. For faster processing, expedited service is available upon request
- Print the approved e-visa document and present it at the immigration counter upon arrival at a Vietnam airport
Note: To check the status of your e-visa application, please contact us via email at info@simplevietnamvisa.com
*Visa requirements and regulations are referenced based on the official guidelines from the Immigration Department of Vietnam
Frequently Asked Questions
Vietnam visa fees vary by type. The government fee for a Vietnam e-visa is USD 25 (single entry) or USD 50 (multiple entry). For visa on arrival, the airport stamping fee is USD 25 (single entry) or USD 50 (multiple entry), with an additional approval letter fee charged.
Vietnam is generally safe for pregnant travelers. Consult your doctor before departure, carry all relevant medical documentation, and ensure your travel insurance covers pregnancy-related care. Major cities such as Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City have well-equipped international hospitals
Yes, for personal use. Carry your original prescription or a doctor’s letter and keep medication in its original packaging. Check in advance whether any specific medication is classified as a controlled substance under Vietnamese law, as additional permits may be required.
Yes. Our urgent 2 working day e-visa service can deliver your approved visa within 48 hours on weekdays. For same-day travel needs, super rush processing is available with approval in as little as 2–4 hours. See our emergency Vietnam visa service for full details.
