Visa on arrival: Do I need a visa to visit Vietnam?

As you're about to visit Vietnam, deciding which visa is right for you, figuring out how to apply and knowing what you need, can be really confusing. Don't fret because applying for a Vietnamese visa is not only easy but also straightforward.

In this article, you'll find the countries that are eligible to visit Vietnam without visa obligations and how to apply for Vietnam visa online and at the embassy step by step.

List of nationalities that do not require a Vietnam visa

Before you start on your application, make sure you've double-checked whether your home country is eligible for visa-free entry to Vietnam. As of May 2025, the citizens of the following countries do not need a visa to enter Vietnam for a certain amount of time.

E-Visa

Starting from 1st February 2017, the Vietnamese government officially launched the electronic visa program (e-visa) for tourists of certain countries to Vietnam. E-visa appears to be the best option for the majority of tourists traveling to Vietnam with maximum stay of 90 days.

Pros:

• Simple

• 100% online application

• Reasonable transparent pricing US$25 without stamping fee at the airport

• Quick processing (approximately 3–5 business days).

• You needn't to go through any travel agency.

Cons:

• Single entry only (Multiple entry is now available as of May 2025)

• Non-extendable

• Only 46 countries are eligible (Now available for all countries)

• You can only apply for an e-visa if you're outside of Vietnam

How to obtain an e-visa

• Prepare your digital passport photo (don't wear glasses, scarves and both ears must be shown) and passport data page

• Head to the official e-visa website (evisa.gov.vn) and fill out online application form

• Pay using the designated payment methods (US$25 for single entry and US$50 for multiple entry e-visa)

• Secure your registration code, you'll need it to track your application

• Note: If you need an e-visa urgently, contact a visa agency such as urgentvietnamvisa.com and fast track the visa process.

Other ways to apply for a Vietnam visa

Visa On Arrival

Queue for visa on arrival at Noi Bai airport 

The process to get a visa letter (also known as the approval letter or the pre-authorised visa letter) is fast and easy. Many travel agencies offer this service. You just need to fill out a form with information such as full name, passport number, date of birth and email address.

It may take 2-3 working days to get the visa letter, however, expedited service is available with an additional fee. When you land in Vietnam, show your visa approval letter, passport and passport photo to the Immigration Officer and then pick up the actual visa stamp at an international airport in Vietnam. Make sure you have cash (US dollars) with you for the stamping fee.

For full application guide visit www.myvietnamvisa.com

Getting a visa from the Embassy

You can get the visa processed at any Vietnam Embassy in any country. All you need to do is just find if your country has a Vietnamese Embassy or Consulate. The process is actually fast and convenient (around 5 business days). Instead of a visa approval letter, you'll get a visa stamp right on your passport. However since each embassy can have a slightly difference requirement, it is best to contact your local one for specific requirements.

Business Visa

Vietnam has been witnessing an increase in the number of foreigners over the world come to work and live. For those interested in traveling Vietnam for business purposes, it is required to obtain a visa enter Vietnam. Luckily, Vietnam policy is not so complicated when it comes to business visa process for foreigner workers. Depending on the employer, work permit is required. To our own experience, travel agency in Phnom Penh, Cambodia can arrange this for you as well. The validity ranges from six months up to one year.

Last updated: 27-05-2025