Vietnam Visa Guide for Tourists

Most travelers to Vietnam today apply for an e-visa, a straightforward online process that has largely replaced the older "visa-on-arrival with approval letter" system for tourism purposes.

The E-Visa

Citizens of a large number of countries are eligible for the Vietnamese e-visa, valid for a single entry of up to 90 days. Applications are submitted through the official Vietnam Immigration Department portal, require a passport photo and passport scan, and are typically processed within 3 working days. We recommend applying at least a week before departure to allow for any delays.

Visa Exemptions

Citizens of several countries, including the UK, France, Germany, Spain and a number of other nations, benefit from short-stay visa exemptions that allow visa-free entry for a limited number of days. These arrangements change periodically, so always check the current rules for your nationality before booking flights.

What You'll Need

• A passport valid for at least 6 months beyond your arrival date, with at least one blank page
• A passport-style digital photo
• A valid debit or credit card for the visa fee
• Proof of onward or return travel (occasionally requested at immigration)

We always recommend double-checking requirements on your government's official travel advisory site or the Vietnamese embassy website before you travel, as visa policy can change with short notice.