Vietnam Visa Requirements

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Summary

The majority of foreign visitors need a visa to enter Vietnam.¹ However, numerous countries have established visa exemption agreements with Vietnam.¹ Vietnam offers various visa types depending on the purpose of the trip, including tourist visas, business visas, work visas, student visas, investment visas, and diplomatic visas.² The primary method for obtaining a visa online is the e-visa, which is now available to citizens of all countries and territories, allowing a maximum stay of 90 days with single or multiple entries.¹¹ Citizens of 29 countries are granted visa-free stays ranging from 14 to 90 days.³ Notably, 13 countries benefit from unilateral visa exemption policies for up to 45 days.¹¹ Visa applications can be submitted online through the official e-visa portal or at Vietnamese embassies and consulates.² Visa on arrival has become less common with the prevalence of e-visas.² Visa fees vary depending on the visa type and application method, with e-visas costing $25 for a single entry and $50 for multiple entries.⁴ The duration of stay differs from the visa validity, and travellers must adhere to the entry and exit dates specified on their visa.²⁵ Visa extensions are possible under certain circumstances.¹⁶

Recent policy changes indicate a clear trend in Vietnam's immigration policy towards enhancing accessibility through e-visas and extended visa-free periods. This suggests the government recognizes the importance of simplifying visa procedures for tourism and business. Travellers should stay updated on the latest regulations from official sources.

Who Needs a Visa to Enter Vietnam?

As a general rule, most foreign citizens require a visa to enter Vietnam.¹ This requirement stems from Vietnam's immigration laws and international agreements.¹ However, this general rule has several exceptions based on the traveler's nationality and specific agreements between Vietnam and other countries ¹ Vietnam has proactively established visa exemption policies to facilitate travel for citizens of certain nations, often based on bilateral or unilateral agreements.¹

Stating the general visa requirement followed immediately by the visa exemption cases emphasises the importance for travellers to verify their specific situation. The existence of these visa exemptions indicates a strategic approach to international relations and tourism promotion.

Vietnam's Visa Exemption Policy

Unilateral Visa Exemption:

Since August 15, 2023, citizens of 13 countries are unilaterally exempt from visa requirements, allowing a maximum stay of 45 days, regardless of passport type and entry purpose.¹¹ These countries include Germany, France, Italy, Spain, the United Kingdom, Russia, Japan, South Korea, Denmark, Sweden, Norway, Finland, and Belarus.¹¹ This extended stay is a significant increase from previous policies.⁶
This policy demonstrates Vietnam's commitment to attracting tourists and business travelers from key markets by simplifying entry procedures. The extended 45-day stay provides a more substantial timeframe for visits.

Full List of Visa-Exempt Countries (Ordinary Passports):

In addition to the 13 countries with 45-day visa exemptions, a broader list includes countries with varying visa-free durations: Chile and Panama (90 days), Cambodia, Indonesia, Kyrgyzstan, Laos, Malaysia, Singapore, Thailand (30 days), Philippines (21 days), and Brunei, Myanmar (14 days).³ Belarus, Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, Norway, Russia, South Korea, Spain, Sweden, the United Kingdom, and Kazakhstan are also granted 45-day visa exemptions.³
The tiered system of visa-free durations likely reflects varying levels of diplomatic or economic relations and reciprocal agreements with these nations. The inclusion of neighboring ASEAN countries with shorter stays suggests a focus on regional tourism.

Visa Exemption Based on Passport Type:

Holders of diplomatic passports from numerous countries can enter Vietnam without a visa for stays ranging from 15 to 90 days.⁵ This includes countries such as Afghanistan, Albania, Algeria, Argentina, and many others.⁵
Holders of official/service passports from a similar list of countries are also granted visa-free entry, often with the same duration of stay as diplomatic passport holders.¹
These visa exemptions are standard diplomatic practices, facilitating official travel and enhancing international relations. The varying durations may be based on specific bilateral agreements concerning official travel.

Special Visa Exemption Cases:

Phu Quoc Island: All visitors traveling directly to Phu Quoc Island from abroad can stay visa-free for a maximum of 30 days, provided they then depart for another country.³ This is intended to promote tourism in this special economic zone.³
APEC Business Travel Card (ABTC) Holders: Holders of a valid ABTC with "VNM" inscribed on the back are exempt from Vietnam visa requirements for business trips not exceeding 60 days.³
These targeted visa exemptions demonstrate Vietnam's strategic efforts to boost tourism in specific economic zones and facilitate business travel for APEC members, highlighting economic development priorities.

Conditions for Visa Exemption:

Generally, passports must have at least six months of validity remaining from the intended date of entry.³
Passports must also have at least two blank pages for entry and exit stamps.³
Proof of onward travel may be required.⁵
These conditions are standard requirements for international travel, ensuring the validity and usability of travel documents.

Removal of 30-Day Interval Rule: The previous requirement for a 30-day gap between two visa-exempt stays has been abolished, effective from July 1, 2020.³

This change simplifies travel for frequent visitors from visa-exempt countries, potentially encouraging repeat tourism and more frequent short trips.

Exclusion of British National Overseas (BNO) Passport Holders: Holders of BNO passports are not eligible for visa exemption.³

This specific exclusion indicates a particular stance regarding this type of travel document.

Table: List of Visa-Exempt Countries and Stay Duration (Ordinary Passports - As of February 2025)

Types of Vietnamese Visas

Tourist Visa (DL):

The most common type of visa for travellers visiting Vietnam for tourism, sightseeing, or visiting relatives ²
Typically valid for 15 to 90 days.¹ Options include 30-day and 90-day visas, with single or multiple entry possibilities.²
Can be obtained through various methods: e-visa (the most popular online option), visa on arrival (currently restricted, mainly for air travel with prior approval), or by applying directly at a Vietnamese embassy or consulate.²
Tourist visas are designed for short-term stays for leisure purposes, offering flexibility in duration and entry frequency. The increasing use of e-visas has simplified the application process for tourists.

Business Visa (DN1, DN2):

Issued to foreigners entering Vietnam for business-related purposes such as attending meetings, conferences, exploring investment opportunities, or working with Vietnamese businesses ² DN1 visas are for those working for a legally recognised company, while DN2 visas are for those offering services or goods with their commercial presence.⁷
Typically valid for a maximum of 3 months (90 days) but can be extended for up to 12 months ^2. Can be single or multiple entry.²
Usually requires a letter of guarantee or invitation from a legally operating company or organisation in Vietnam.¹⁰
Business visas facilitate economic activities and require an established business relationship in Vietnam, evidenced by the letter of guarantee requirement. The distinction between DN1 and DN2 visas caters to different forms of business engagement.

Work Visa (LĐ1, LĐ2):

Mandatory for foreigners who have secured employment or are invited to work in Vietnam.² LĐ1 visas are for those exempt from a work permit, while LĐ2 visas require a work permit.⁸
Validity can be up to 2 years.²
Requires a work permit issued by the Vietnamese Ministry of Labour, Invalids and Social Affairs.² Applying for a work permit usually needs to be done before applying for the visa.²
Work visas are strictly regulated and require both the individual and the employer to meet specific criteria, ensuring compliance with Vietnamese labour laws.

Student/Internship Visa (DH):

Issued to individuals planning to study or undertake an internship at recognised educational institutions in Vietnam.²
Maximum validity is typically 12 months and aligns with the duration of the study or internship program.²
Requires an acceptance letter or enrollment confirmation from the Vietnamese educational institution.²
Student visas facilitate international educational exchange and require proof of enrollment in a legitimate academic program.

Investor Visa (ĐT1-ĐT4):

Granted to foreign investors and representatives of foreign organisations investing in Vietnam, categorised based on the amount of invested capital.⁴
Validity ranges from a maximum of 12 months (ĐT4 - investment under VND 3 billion) to a maximum of 5 years (ĐT1 & ĐT2 - investment over VND 50 billion).⁴ ĐT3 visas are for investments between VND 3 billion and VND 50 billion with a maximum validity of 3 years.⁴
Requires documents such as the Enterprise Registration Certificate or Investment Registration Certificate ⁷
Investor visas are designed to attract foreign capital and expertise to Vietnam, providing longer stays for those making significant financial contributions to the Vietnamese economy. The tiered system incentivises larger investments.

Diplomatic Visa (NG1-NG4):

Issued to members of delegations visiting Vietnam at the invitation of Vietnamese ministries or high-ranking government officials, as well as staff working at diplomatic missions, consulates, and representative offices of international organisations ⁷
Validity is usually no more than 12 months ⁷
Typically requires an official invitation letter or diplomatic note.⁸
Diplomatic visas facilitate official interactions at the government level and are governed by international protocols.

Other Visa Types:

Dependent Visa (TT): Issued to spouses and children under 18 of foreigners holding certain long-term visas like work visas, investment visas, student visas, with a maximum validity of 12 months.⁷
Family Visit Visa (VR): For visiting relatives or other personal purposes, with a maximum validity of 6 months.⁷
Conference/Seminar Visa (HN): For attending meetings, conferences, seminars, or other events, with a maximum validity of 3 months.⁷
Journalist Visa (PV1, PV2): For journalists working permanently (PV1) or short-term (PV2) in Vietnam, with a maximum validity of 12 months.⁷
The existence of these diverse visa types reflects Vietnam's comprehensive immigration policy, designed to cater to a wide range of travel purposes beyond the most common ones.

Table: Summary of Vietnam Visa Types and Maximum Validity

Visa Type	Visa Code	Maximum Validity
Tourist Visa	DL	3 Months
Business Visa	DN1, DN2	12 Months
Work Visa	LĐ1, LĐ2	2 Years
Student/Internship Visa	DH	12 Months
Investor Visa	ĐT1, ĐT2	5 Years
Investor Visa	ĐT3	3 Years
Investor Visa	ĐT4	12 Months
Diplomatic Visa	NG1-NG4	12 Months
Dependent Visa	TT	12 Months
Family Visit Visa	VR	6 Months
Conference/Seminar Visa	HN	3 Months
Journalist Visa	PV1, PV2	12 Months

Applying for a Vietnam Visa

E-Visa Application Process:

Official Online Portals: E-visa applications can be made through the official websites of the Vietnam Immigration Department: https://evisa.gov.vn and https://thithucdientu.gov.vn.¹¹ These portals have been operating on new domain names since November 11, 2024.¹⁸
Step-by-Step Guide:

Begin by accessing one of the official e-visa websites.¹⁷
Select the English language option, usually located in the top right corner ¹⁷
Click on the "Apply now" button or a similarly labelled button to start the application.¹⁷
Carefully read all the terms and conditions before proceeding.¹⁷
Upload a clear scan of your passport data page. The file should be in JPG format and ideally smaller than 200 KB.¹⁷
Upload a recent passport-style portrait photo. This photo must also be in JPG format, smaller than 50KB, with a white background, showing your face clearly without glasses, and taken within the last year.¹⁷
Fill out the online form with accurate and complete personal information, passport details, contact information, and trip details (intended entry/exit dates, ports, temporary address in Vietnam).¹⁷
Review all entered information to ensure accuracy before submitting.³⁵
Pay the e-visa fee online using a valid credit or debit card or other accepted payment methods like PayPal. The fee is $25 for a single-entry visa and $50 for a multiple-entry visa.¹⁴
After successful payment, you will receive a confirmation email containing a registration code for your application.¹⁷ Keep this code carefully, as you will need it to check your application status.
Processing time typically takes 3-5 working days, but can sometimes extend to 7 working days, especially during peak seasons or if additional information is required ¹⁷
Use your registration code, email address, and date of birth to check your e-visa application status on the official portal's e-visa search function.¹⁷
If your e-visa is approved, download the PDF file and print it in colour.¹⁷
Present the printed e-visa along with your valid passport to immigration officers upon arrival at your chosen port of entry in Vietnam.³⁵

Required Electronic Documents: A scanned copy of the passport information page and a digital passport-style photo are mandatory for the online application.¹⁷ Ensure they meet the specified size and format requirements.³⁵
Payment of E-Visa Fee: The e-visa fee must be paid online at the time of application using a valid international credit or debit card or via PayPal.¹⁴ The fee is $25 for a single-entry e-visa and $50 for a multiple-entry e-visa, both valid for a maximum of 90 days.⁴ Note that these fees are non-refundable.¹⁴
Checking Application Status: Applicants can track the progress of their e-visa application by visiting the e-visa search page on the official portal and entering their registration code, email address, and date of birth.¹⁷
Designated Entry and Exit Points: Holders of a Vietnam e-visa are permitted to enter and exit through 42 designated international border gates. This includes 13 international airports (e.g., Noi Bai, Tan Son Nhat, Da Nang), 16 land border gates, and 13 sea border gates.¹¹ It is crucial to select your intended port of entry during the application process as entry may not be allowed through other checkpoints ⁶⁰
The e-visa application process is entirely online, offering convenience and accessibility to applicants worldwide. The requirement for digital documents and online payment reflects a modern approach to visa processing. The list of designated entry/exit points is essential for travel planning.

Applying at a Vietnamese Embassy or Consulate:

Applicants can apply for a visa by visiting a Vietnamese embassy or consulate in their country in person or by applying by mail.¹ It is advisable to check the specific procedures and requirements of the embassy or consulate you plan to use, as they may vary.¹
Documents typically required include: a completed visa application form ¹, your original passport (for sticker visas) or a copy of the passport information page (for loose-leaf visas) valid for at least six months ¹, passport-sized photographs (usually one or two, with specific requirements for size and background) ¹, and the applicable visa fee, which may be payable by money order, cashier's check, or credit/debit card depending on the embassy.¹ Additional documents such as a visa approval letter from the Vietnam Immigration Department or an invitation letter, may be necessary depending on the type of visa you are applying for.²⁶ If applying by mail, you will also need to include a prepaid self-addressed return envelope to receive your passport and visa back.²⁷
Processing times at embassies can vary. If you do not have a visa approval letter, it may take six to seven working days. If you already have an approval letter, processing usually takes three working days. Expedited services are often available for an additional fee.²⁵
Applying at an embassy or consulate is a more traditional method, suitable for those who prefer direct interaction or require specific visa types not available online. Processing times may be longer compared to e-visas.

Visa On Arrival (VOA):

Visa on arrival was previously a popular option, especially for air travelers arriving at Vietnam's international airports.² However, its applicability has become limited with the widespread adoption of the e-visa system.³⁰
To obtain a VOA, travelers typically needed to apply online through a visa company or other authorized service to receive a visa approval letter in advance from the Vietnam Immigration Department.²
Upon arrival at the airport, travelers would present the approval letter, passport, passport photos, and a completed visa application form at the Visa On Arrival counter and pay the stamping fee in cash to receive their visa.⁷
It is important to note that visa on arrival was generally only applicable to those arriving by air.²
Current information suggests that visa on arrival may now only be applicable for emergency entry cases.³⁰ Therefore, travelers should consider e-visas or applying at an embassy/consulate as their primary options.

Vietnam Visa Fees

E-Visa Fees:

The official government fee for a Vietnam e-visa is $25 for a single-entry visa and $50 for a multiple-entry visa, both valid for a maximum of 90 days.⁴
These fees are payable online through the e-payment gateway of the e-visa portal.¹⁴
It is important to note that the e-visa fee is non-refundable if the application is rejected or if there are errors in the visa letter due to inaccurate information provided by the applicant.¹⁴
The cost of an e-visa is standard and relatively low, especially for a single entry, making it an attractive option for many travellers. The non-refundable policy emphasises the need for accurate applications.

Fees for Visas Applied at Embassies/Consulates:

Fees for visas applied at Vietnamese embassies and consulates can vary depending on the specific embassy, the type of visa, the intended duration of stay, and the number of entries required.¹
For U.S. citizens, the official fees for traditional visas (non-e-visa) are as follows: Single entry visa: $25; Multiple entry visa for 3 months: $50; Multiple entry visa for 3-6 months: $95; Multiple entry visa for 6-12 months: $135; Multiple entry visa for 1-2 years: $145; Multiple entry visa for 2-5 years: $155.³⁷ There is also a $25 fee for visas issued to travelers under 14 years of age, regardless of the duration of stay.³⁷
Payment methods at embassies and consulates often include money orders, cashier's checks, or credit/debit cards, but it is best to confirm accepted methods with the specific embassy you are applying to ²⁶
Visa fees at embassies and consulates can be more variable and tend to increase with longer validity periods and multiple entry options. For some nationalities, like U.S. citizens, long-term multiple-entry visas can be significantly more expensive than e-visas.

Stamping Fees (for Visa On Arrival - now limited):

For those eligible for a visa on arrival, there is a separate "stamping fee" payable in cash (USD or Vietnamese Dong) upon arrival at the airport in Vietnam.⁷
The stamping fee is typically $25 for a single-entry visa and $50 for a multiple-entry visa valid for up to 3 months.⁷ For a 12-month multiple entry visa for U.S. passport holders, the stamping fee is $135.³⁰
As visa on arrival has largely been replaced by e-visas, these stamping fees are less relevant for most travellers, but it is still useful to be aware of them if you fall into an exceptional case where VOA is granted.
The existence of separate stamping fees for VOA means that applicants using this method have to budget for two separate payments: a service fee for the pre-approval letter and the stamping fee upon arrival.

Service Fees:

Some websites and travel companies offer assistance with the Vietnam visa application process and may charge their service fees in addition to the official government fees.¹⁷ These fees can vary depending on the company and the level of service provided, such as expedited processing.¹⁷
Travellers should be aware that using third-party services can increase the overall cost of obtaining a visa. It is advisable to compare fees and understand what services are included before using such companies. Applying directly through the official e-visa portal is usually the most cost-effective option.

Visa Validity and Duration of Stay

The Difference: It is important to understand the distinction between visa validity and the permitted duration of stay in Vietnam.³⁹ Visa validity is the period during which you are allowed to enter Vietnam. Once you enter, the duration of stay refers to how long you are permitted to remain in the country. The exit date on your visa or entry stamp indicates the last day you must leave Vietnam.³⁹
E-Visa: Vietnam's e-visa is valid for a maximum of 90 days from the date of entry and can be issued for single or multiple entries within these 90 days.⁴
Tourist Visa (DL): The validity of a tourist visa can range from 15 days to 3 months (90 days), depending on the specific type of visa you receive (single or multiple entry).¹
Business Visa (DN): Business visas are typically valid for a maximum of 3 months (90 days) but can be issued for up to 12 months, with single or multiple entry options.²
Work Visa (LĐ): Work visas can have a validity of up to 2 years, aligning with the duration of the labour contract.²
Student/Internship Visa (DH): Student visas usually have a maximum validity of 12 months, often coinciding with the academic program's duration.²
Investor Visa (ĐT): The validity of investor visas varies based on the investment amount, ranging from a maximum of 12 months for smaller investments (ĐT4) to a maximum of 5 years for larger investments (ĐT1, ĐT2).⁴
Diplomatic Visa (NG): Diplomatic visas are typically valid for a maximum of 12 months ⁷
Adhering to Dates: Travellers must enter Vietnam on or after the entry date printed on their visa and depart before the expiration date. Overstaying can result in penalties, fines, and potential issues with future entry to Vietnam.³¹

Understanding the difference between visa validity and permitted duration of stay is crucial for travellers to plan their trips accordingly and avoid overstaying. The increase in the maximum stay duration for e-visas to 90 days offers greater flexibility.

Vietnam Visa Extension Policy

If you wish to stay in Vietnam longer than your initial visa allows, you may be able to apply for a visa extension without having to leave the country, although the conditions and eligibility criteria vary depending on your visa type.¹⁶

Tourist Visa Extension: Tourist visas, often single-entry visas, can typically be extended for an additional 15 or 30 days once you are in Vietnam.¹⁶ This process usually requires sponsorship from a Vietnamese travel agency.⁴⁰
Business Visa Extension: Business visas, whether single or multiple entry, can be extended for up to one year. This generally requires sponsorship from the Vietnamese business or organization that originally sponsored your visa.⁴⁰
General Requirements: To apply for a visa extension, you will usually need a valid passport with at least 6 months of remaining validity and at least two blank pages.⁴⁰ You will also need to complete a visa extension application form (Form NA5) ⁴⁰ and provide proof of your current temporary residence in Vietnam.⁴⁰ Additional supporting documents may be required depending on your visa type.⁴²
Application Process: Applications for visa extensions are typically submitted to the Vietnam Immigration Department or one of their local offices in major cities like Hanoi, Da Nang, or Ho Chi Minh City.⁴⁰ You can apply in person or through a visa service agency, which is often recommended for business visa holders who may not have direct sponsorship from an employer for extension purposes.⁴⁰
Processing Time and Fees: The processing time for a visa extension can take around 5 to 8 working days.⁴⁰ There are fees associated with visa extensions, which can vary depending on the type of visa and the duration of the extension.³⁶
Overstaying: It is crucial to apply for a visa extension before your current visa expires. Overstaying your visa without proper authorization can lead to administrative penalties, fines, and a negative record with the Vietnam Immigration Department, potentially causing difficulties for future entry into Vietnam.⁴⁰

While visa extensions offer a way to prolong your stay in Vietnam, they are subject to specific requirements and procedures. It is essential to begin the extension process well before your current visa expires and ensure you meet all the necessary conditions.

Important Notes and Official Information Sources

Passport Validity: Ensure your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your intended date of entry into Vietnam.³ Some airlines may even require a longer validity period, so it's best to check with your carrier.³⁹
Blank Passport Pages: Make sure your passport has at least one or two blank pages for visa stamps and entry/exit stamps.³
Accurate Information: When applying for a visa, whether online or at an embassy, it is crucial to provide complete, accurate, and truthful information for all questions on the application form.¹⁴ Any discrepancies or false information could lead to delays or rejection of your application.
Official Website of the Vietnam Immigration Department: For the latest and most reliable information on Vietnam visa requirements and the e-visa application process, refer to the official websites of the Vietnam Immigration Department: https://evisa.gov.vn and https://thithucdientu.gov.vn.¹¹
Contact Information of the Vietnam Immigration Department: The Vietnam Immigration Department is located at 44 - 46, Tran Phu street, Dien Bien Ward, Ba Dinh District, Hanoi.⁵⁹ You can contact them via email at foreigners@immigration.gov.vn or through their hotline: +84.24.382.640.26.²⁵
Vietnamese Embassies and Consulates: For specific inquiries or to apply for visas not available online, you should contact the Vietnamese embassy or consulate in your country of residence. You can find a list of these diplomatic missions on the website of the Vietnamese Ministry of Foreign Affairs or through a general online search for "Vietnam Embassy in [your country]".¹

These final notes serve as important reminders for travellers to ensure they meet the basic requirements for entering Vietnam and guide them to reliable and official sources of information for the most accurate guidance.