Planning your incredible travel to Vietnam? Sorting out your visa is a crucial first step! Navigating visa requirements Vietnam can seem confusing, but understanding your options makes the process much smoother. This guide breaks down the main ways tourists can obtain a Vietnam tourist visa in 2025, focusing on Vietnam Visa Exemption and the popular Vietnam E-visa.
The short answer: it depends on your nationality and how long you plan to stay. Many travellers will need a visa, but a growing number can benefit from visa exemptions for shorter trips.
Vietnam allows citizens of several countries to enter without a visa for a specific period, primarily for tourism. This is the easiest option if you qualify and your trip fits within the allowed timeframe.
Who is Eligible? As of early 2025, citizens from 25+ countries enjoy visa exemption. This includes:
ASEAN countries (like Singapore, Thailand, Malaysia, Indonesia, Philippines): Usually 30 days (Brunei/Myanmar 14 days).
UK, Germany, France, Italy, Spain, Denmark, Sweden, Norway, Finland, Russia, Belarus: 45 days.
South Korea, Japan: 45 days.
Chile, Panama: 90 days.
Others like Kyrgyzstan, Kazakhstan.
Duration: The allowed stay varies, most commonly 14, 21, 30, or 45 days. The 45-day exemption for many European countries, South Korea, and Japan is a significant benefit for longer trips.
Requirements:
Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months beyond your planned exit date from Vietnam.
Your passport needs at least two blank pages.
The exemption is generally for tourism purposes; you usually cannot work.
You may be asked for proof of onward travel (e.g., a flight ticket out of Vietnam) when entering under an exemption.
IMPORTANT: Visa exemption rules and eligible countries can change. Always double-check the latest official requirements for your specific nationality directly with a Vietnamese embassy or consulate, or on the official Vietnam Immigration portal before your trip.
The Vietnam E-visa is a convenient online visa system available to citizens of all countries and territories (as per recent updates). It's generally the recommended option for tourists needing a visa or planning a stay longer than their exemption allows.
What is it? An electronic visa you apply for and receive online before your trip.
Validity: Up to 90 days.
Entry Type: Can be issued for single or multiple entries within the 90-day validity.
Cost: The government fee is $25 USD for single entry and $50 USD for multiple entry. This fee is non-refundable, even if the application is rejected.
Processing Time: Officially 3-5 working days. However, it's highly recommended to apply at least 1-2 weeks before your intended travel date to account for potential delays or weekends/holidays.
Where is it Accepted? The E-visa is valid for entry through numerous international airports, land border crossings, and seaports. Check the official list of ports when applying to ensure your planned entry/exit points are included.
The Vietnam E-visa application is done entirely online through the official government portal. Be cautious of unofficial websites that charge extra fees or may be scams.
Official E-Visa Websites:
Steps:
1. Prepare Your Documents:
A scanned copy (.jpg format) of your passport's data page (must be clear, showing all details and photo).
A recent digital passport-style photo (.jpg format, 4x6cm, white background, no glasses, looking straight).
A valid passport with at least 6 months validity remaining from your entry date and blank pages.
A valid international credit/debit card to pay the fee.
Your planned entry/exit dates and entry/exit points (select from the official list).
A temporary address in Vietnam (e.g., your first hotel).
A valid email address.
2. Access the Official Portal: Go to one of the official websites listed above.
3. Fill Out the Form: Complete the online application form accurately, uploading your passport scan and photo when prompted. Double-check all details match your passport exactly (full name order, date of birth, passport number).
4. Pay the Fee: Pay the $25 or $50 USD fee securely via the online payment gateway.
5. Receive Registration Code: Note down your unique registration code. You'll need this to check your application status.
6. Wait for Processing: Allow 3-5 working days (or longer if applying near holidays).
7. Check Status & Download: Use your registration code on the official portal to check your application status. If 'Granted,' download the PDF of your E-visa.
8. Print Your E-Visa: Print at least one clear copy (preferably two) of your E-visa to present upon arrival in Vietnam.
Visa on Arrival (VOA) was previously a common option for air travellers. However, with the widespread availability and longer validity of the Vietnam E-visa, VOA is generally less convenient for most tourists now.
VOA requires you to obtain a "visa approval letter" before you travel (arranged through a third-party agency online, involving a service fee) and then pay an additional "stamping fee" ($25 single/$50 multiple, cash only) upon arrival at one of Vietnam's major international airports to get the visa sticker in your passport. The E-visa avoids the need for an approval letter and the queuing/payment process at the airport visa counter.
This guide focuses on tourist visas. If you plan to work, study, visit family long-term, or conduct business in Vietnam, you will likely need a different type of visa applied for through a Vietnamese embassy or consulate in your home country, often requiring sponsorship or specific documentation.
Check Early: Confirm your specific visa requirements Vietnam based on your nationality and trip length well in advance.
Passport Validity: Ensure your passport is valid for at least 6 months after your planned entry date.
Use Official E-visa Site: ONLY use https://evisa.gov.vn or https://thithucdientu.gov.vn/ for E-visa applications to avoid scams and extra fees.
Apply E-visa in Advance: Don't wait until the last minute. Apply 1-2 weeks (or more) before your trip.
Accuracy is Key: Double-check all information on your Vietnam visa application matches your passport perfectly. Errors can lead to rejection or issues upon arrival.
Print Everything: Carry printed copies of your E-visa or visa exemption supporting documents (like flight itinerary).
Getting the correct Vietnam visa 2025 is essential for smooth travel to Vietnam. For many tourists, the Vietnam visa exemption (for shorter stays) or the efficient Vietnam E-visa (for longer stays up to 90 days) are the best options. Always verify requirements for your nationality and apply through official channels well before your departure date.
Feeling unsure about the visa process? When you book a Vietnam package tour with [Your Company Name], we can often provide guidance and support with understanding visa requirements as part of our service, making your planning stress-free!
