To enhance your travel experience, consider obtaining a Vietnam evisa, an electronic visa that simplifies the entry process. This guide will navigate you through everything you need to know about obtaining a Vietnam Evisa, from eligibility requirements to the application process, ensuring a smooth and stress-free journey to this captivating Vietnam
Enjoy a stay of up to 90 days with multiple entries (for the 90-day option). Enter Vietnam through any of the 42 designated international checkpoints (airports, land borders, and seaports). Processing fees vary depending on the chosen visa type (30-day single entry or 90-day multiple entry) and are non-refundable. Expect your Vietnam eVisa to be processed within 3 working days. Please note: extensions are not currently available for e-Visas.
Vietnam eVisa requirements
Visa requirements for Vietnam depend on your nationality, purpose of visit, and the length of stay. Here’s a breakdown to help you navigate the process:
Vietnam eVisa Exemptions:
Citizens of certain countries can enjoy visa-free entry to Vietnam for short tourist stays. As of November 23rd, 2023, there are 26 countries exempt from visa requirements:
Europe: Germany, France, Italy, Spain, the United Kingdom, Russia, Belarus
Asia: Japan, South Korea, Singapore, Malaysia, Thailand
Southeast Asia: Indonesia, Philippines
Americas: Chile, Argentina
Africa: South Africa
Oceania: Australia, New Zealand
Nordic Countries: Denmark, Sweden, Norway, Finland
If you’re a citizen of one of these countries, you can enjoy a visa-free stay in Vietnam. The duration of visa-free stays can vary depending on your nationality. Always double-check the latest information from official Vietnamese government sources or the embassy/consulate in your home country before finalizing your travel plans.
eVisa Requirements for Other Nationalities:
For travelers from countries not on the exemption list, obtaining a visa is necessary. Here are some common visa options:
Tourist Visa: This is the most common visa for leisure travel. It typically allows a stay of 30 days (single entry) or multiple entries with a maximum stay of 90 days in total.
Business Visa: This visa caters to individuals on business trips, offering stays ranging from one month to three months with single or multiple entries depending on the specific visa type.
Other Relevant Visa Types: Vietnam offers various visa options depending on your specific needs. These may include:
Long-term Tourist Visa: For extended travels (typically 3-6 months)
Journalistic Visa: For journalists on official assignments.
Work Visa: For individuals taking up employment in Vietnam.
Vietnam evisa process
Information Preparation
Documents:
Valid Passport: Make sure your passport is valid for at least 6 months from the date you submit your e-visa application and has at least two blank pages for entry stamps.
Digital Passport Photo: You’ll need a digital photo in JPEG/JPG/GIF format. The photo should be taken against a white background, with no glasses, your head uncovered, and without any edits.
Passport Information Page: Have a soft copy (JPEG/JPG/GIF) of your passport’s information page, the one with your photo and personal details. PDFs are not accepted!
Payment Method: You’ll need a credit or debit card (American Express is not accepted) to pay the e-visa fee online.
Additional Information:
Email Address: A valid email address is required to receive your e-visa and application updates.
Vietnam Stay Information: Be prepared to provide details about your temporary address in Vietnam. This can be the address of your hotel, a relative’s home, or any other place you’ll be staying during your visit.
Travel Dates: Know your intended entry and exit dates from Vietnam.
Entry/Exit Points: Specify the airport or land border crossing you plan to use to enter and exit Vietnam.
Application process
Getting your Vietnam e-visa is a straightforward process. Here’s how to do it:
Step 1: Apply for Vietnam eVisa Online:
Make sure you’re applying through the official Vietnam Immigration Department website: evisa.xuatnhapcanh.gov.vn
Choose “Electronic Visa” and then “For Foreigners”. You’ll see application instructions.
Read the instructions carefully before checking the disclaimer box. Click “Next” to proceed.
Step 2: Upload Your Photos:
The system will prompt you to upload two photos:
A clear passport photo following the guidelines (white background, no glasses, etc.)
A digital copy of your passport’s information page (JPEG/JPG/GIF format only, no PDFs!)
Step 3: Fill Out the Application Form:
Complete all mandatory fields marked with a star (*).
Here’s what you’ll need to provide:
Full Name
Sex
Date of Birth
Nationality
Religion (optional)
Email Address
Passport Details (number, type, expiry date)
Travel Information (entry date, intended stay duration, purpose of visit)
Vietnam Stay Information (temporary address – city/province)
Entry and Exit Points (airports or border crossings)
Double-check all information for accuracy before submitting.
Step 4: Submit and Receive a Registration Code:
Upon successful submission, you’ll receive a registration code. Note this down for future reference (checking application status).
Step 5: Pay the E-visa Fee:
Pay the e-visa fee online immediately after submission using a credit or debit card (Visa, Mastercard, and UnionPay are accepted). The fee is $25 per person and is non-refundable in case of application denial
Step 6: Application Processing:
The Immigration Department typically processes applications within 3 business days (excluding holidays). However, it’s recommended to apply at least 7 days before your departure to Vietnam, especially during peak seasons to avoid delays.
Step 7: Receive Your Vietnam Evisa:
Check the application status on the official website: evisa.xuatnhapcanh.gov.vn
Go to the “E-visa Search” section and enter your registration code, email address, and date of birth.
If approved, print out two copies of your e-visa and save a soft copy on your electronic device as a backup.
How long to get the Vietnam evisa:
A Vietnam eVisa typically requires 4-6 working days to complete under normal conditions. Nevertheless, during public holidays, processing times may be extended due to the higher number of applications received.
Arriving in Vietnam with your Vietnam Evisa
Where Can You Enter Vietnam with Vietnam eVisa?
Eligible Ports of Entry: Foreigners with a valid e-Visa can enter Vietnam through 42 designated international border gates, including all major airports, land border crossings, and some seaports
Here is the detail list:
Airports (14)
Cam Ranh International Airport (Nha Trang)
Can Tho International Airport
Da Nang International Airport
Dien Bien Phu Airport
Phu Quoc International Airport
Phu Cat Airport (Tuy Hoa)
Pleiku Airport
Quy Nhon Airport
Noi Bai International Airport (Hanoi)
Tan Son Nhat International Airport (Ho Chi Minh City)
Lien Khuong International Airport (Da Lat)
Vinh Airport
Chu Lai Airport (Quang Nam)
Cat Bi International Airport (Hai Phong)
Land Border Crossings (17)
Lao Cai (Lào Cai Province) – borders Hekou, China
Lao Bao (Quảng Trị Province) – borders Densavan, Laos
Moc Bai (Tay Ninh Province) – borders Bavet, Cambodia
Xa Mat (Tay Ninh Province) – borders Bavet, Cambodia
Preah Dak (Mondulkiri Province, Cambodia) – borders Tay Ninh Province
Le Thanh (Gia Lai Province) – borders Stung Treng Province, Cambodia
Ratana Kiri (Cambodia) – borders Dak Lak Province
Hoa Lac (Lang Son Province) – borders Guangxi, China
Huu Nghi Quan (Lang Son Province) – borders Guangxi, China
Mong Cai (Quang Ninh Province) – borders Dongxing, China
Nam Can (Lang Son Province) – borders Guangxi, China
Vinh Xuong (Long An Province) – borders Svay Rieng Province, Cambodia
Song Thanh (Cao Lanh Province) – borders Takeo Province, Cambodia
Tinh Bien (An Giang Province) – borders Kampot Province, Cambodia
Xa Eua (Dak Lak Province) – borders Mondulkiri Province, Cambodia
Binh Lieu (Cao Bang Province) – borders Guangxi, China
Dong Ha (Quang Tri Province) – borders Savannakhet Province, Laos
Seaports (11)
Cai Mep – Thi Vai (Vũng Tàu)
Da Nang (Da Nang)
Hai Phong (Hai Phong)
Ho Chi Minh City (Ho Chi Minh City)
Quy Nhon (Bình Định Province)
Nha Trang (Khanh Hoa Province)
Vung Tau (Vũng Tàu)
Cam Ranh (Khanh Hoa Province)
Dong Hoi (Quang Bình Province)
Chan May (Thừa Thiên Huế Province)
Soc Trang (Sóc Trăng Province)
Finding the Official List:
The official list of e-Visa entry points is subject to change, so it’s recommended to consult the latest information from reliable sources. Here are a few options:
Vietnamese Immigration Department Website: https://evisa.xuatnhapcanh.gov.vn/trang-chu-ttdt (Look for information on “List of Ports“)
What to expect upon arrival in Vietnam after receiving your Vietnam eVisa
Step 0: Save you Vietnam evisa
Once you receive your e-visa via email, save it on your mobile device or print it out on a standard A4 white sheet of paper.
Step 1: Present E-visa and Passport at Immigration:
At the immigration counter, present either your saved e-visa on your mobile device or the printed e-visa along with your valid passport.
Step 2: Immigration Check:
An immigration officer will carefully examine your passport and e-visa to ensure their validity.
Step 3: Passport Stamping:
If everything is in order, the officer will stamp your passport and return it to you.
Step 4: Baggage Claim and Departure:
Proceed to the baggage claim area to collect your luggage.
Vietnam eVisa FAQs
Entry and Exit Points:
Can I enter through a different port than on my Vietnam evisa?
No, it’s recommended to enter through the chosen port to avoid issues. Airlines might deny boarding, and immigration officers might not allow entry.
Tip: Choose Ho Chi Minh City, Hanoi, or Da Nang airports for flexibility if plans change.
Which ports can I use with the Vietnam evisa?
You can enter through 42 international airports, land borders, and seaports. (entry points)
Fees:
Is the Vietnam evisa fee refundable?
No, the processing fee is non-refundable for both 30-day and 90-day visas.
Application Process:
What are common mistakes during application?
Incorrect name, passport number, photo quality, or port of entry selection.
Double-check port options (e.g., multiple options in Ho Chi Minh City).
Can I apply for multiple people at once?
No, separate applications are required for each person.
What if I have a problem with the application?
Contact support on the official website with details of the issue. Response time is unknown.
What if I provide the wrong information?
The immigration department may request corrections or deny the application. Expect delays if corrections are needed.
Arrival and Validity:
What documents do I need on arrival?
Present a printed copy of your Vietnam evisa and your passport. Travel insurance is recommended although not mandatory.
Can I arrive on different dates than stated?
You can arrive later than your chosen entry date, but not earlier. The visa validity starts from the chosen entry date, even if the visa arrives late. Tip: Apply well in advance to avoid issues caused by late visa arrival.