Do You Need a Visa to Enter Vietnam?

Naomi Ngo • February 24, 2025

Vietnam, with its vibrant culture, stunning landscapes, and rich history, attracts millions of tourists, business travelers, and expatriates each year. One of the most common questions people ask before visiting Vietnam is: "Do I need a visa?" The answer depends on your nationality, the purpose of your visit, and the length of your stay. Let’s dive into Vietnam's visa policy, the different types of e-visas, which countries are visa-free, and which countries need a visa to enter Vietnam with Up Travel.

Vietnam Visa Policy Overview

Vietnam’s visa policy is relatively straightforward, but it can vary depending on your nationality. For short-term visits, some countries enjoy visa exemptions. However, for longer stays, business trips, or specific travel purposes, you may need to apply for a visa. Navigating these rules can sometimes be confusing, but our team at Up Travel is here to assist, ensuring a smooth process for your trip.

Vietnamese currency
Visa Exemption:

Vietnam has visa exemption agreements with several countries, meaning citizens from those countries can enter without needing a visa for short visits (usually 15 to 45 days). The most common visa exemptions apply to citizens of ASEAN countries, but there are also bilateral agreements with other countries.

Visa Required:

For citizens of countries not covered by these agreements, a visa will be required. In some cases, you can apply for an e-visa or a traditional visa through a Vietnamese embassy or consulate. Unsure about which visa applies to you? Up Travel can provide expert guidance to help simplify the process.

vietnamese visa application

What is an E-Visa for Vietnam?

An e-visa is an electronic travel document issued by the Vietnamese authorities, granting foreign nationals permission to enter and stay in Vietnam. The e-visa is designed to simplify the visa application process by allowing travelers to apply online, eliminating the need to visit a Vietnamese embassy or consulate in person. It is a more efficient and convenient way to obtain a visa for short-term visits.

Types of E-Visa in Vietnam

Vietnam offers two main types of e-visas:

  1. Single-Entry E-Visa: Valid for a single entry into Vietnam, allowing the traveler to stay for up to 30 days. Ideal for tourists, business travelers, or personal visits.
  2. Multiple-Entry E-Visa: Allows for multiple entries into Vietnam, with the total stay not exceeding 90 days. Suitable for individuals who need to enter and exit Vietnam multiple times during the same trip.
Vietnam E-Visa requirements and entry conditions
When Do I Need an E-Visa for Vietnam?

You will need an e-visa if you are:

  • A citizen of an eligible country (check the official list of eligible countries).
  • Planning to visit Vietnam for tourism, business, or personal reasons for up to 30 days (single entry) or 90 days (multiple entries).
  • Entering Vietnam through one of the designated border gates (international airports or land border gates approved for e-visa holders).

If you find the application process daunting, Up Travel can take care of it for you, ensuring accuracy and efficiency.

Conditions for Issuing an E-Visa

The conditions for issuing an e-visa include:

  1. Passport Validity: You must hold a valid passport or international travel document.
  2. Not Under Suspension: You must not fall under the categories specified in Article 21 of the Law on Foreigners' Entry, Exit, Transit, and Residence in Vietnam (for instance, individuals who are suspended from entering Vietnam due to legal reasons).
  3. Eligibility: E-visa applications are only available to foreign nationals who are not banned from entry into Vietnam.
E-Visa Fees

The e-visa application requires payment, which is processed through the e-visa portal’s secure e-payment gateway.

Please note that this payment is non-refundable, regardless of the outcome of your application. To minimize the risk of rejection and ensure a smooth process, using a professional visa service like Up Travel can help you prepare and submit your application correctly.

Vietnam E-Visa application

Which Countries Are Visa-Free for Vietnam?

Vietnam offers visa exemptions for citizens of several countries, particularly within the ASEAN region. Citizens of these countries can enter Vietnam without a visa for short stays (typically up to 30 days). Here’s a list of countries that are visa-free with maximum visa-free duration for Vietnam:

  • ASEAN Countries:
  • Brunei: 14 days
  • Cambodia: 30 days
  • Indonesia: 30 days
  • Laos: 30 days
  • Malaysia: 30 days
  • Myanmar: 14 days
  • Philippines: 21 days
  • Singapore: 30 days
  • Thailand: 30 days
  • Other Countries:
  • Russia, Japan, South Korea, Germany, France, UK, Italy, Spain, Sweden, Denmark, Norway, Finland: 45 days
  • Chile, Panama: 90 days
  • Belarus, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan: 30 days

If you are from any of the above countries, you don’t need a visa for short visits. However, if you plan to stay longer, a visa will be required. Up Travel can help determine the best visa option for your extended stay.

Which Countries Are Obligated to Have a Visa to Enter Vietnam?

For citizens of most countries outside the ASEAN region and visa-exempt countries, a visa is required to enter Vietnam. Some countries have special visa requirements, particularly those with high volumes of tourists or business travelers. Some examples of countries whose citizens must apply for an e-visa or a visa through a consulate or embassy include:

  • United States
  • Canada
  • India
  • Australia
  • South Africa
  • Brazil

Citizens of these countries, along with many others, must apply for either an e-visa or a traditional visa before traveling to Vietnam. Most visitors will be able to apply for an e-visa online, simplifying the process and saving time.

vietnam's visa policy updates

Conclusion

Whether you need a visa to enter Vietnam depends on your nationality, purpose of visit, and duration of stay. While many countries are eligible for visa exemption, others require a visa. The Vietnam e-visa system simplifies the process, allowing travelers to apply online and receive approval quickly.

Before your trip, always check the latest visa requirements to avoid any travel disruptions.

Need Help Getting Your Vietnam Visa?

Why risk delays or rejections? Let Up Travel handle your visa application, so you can focus on planning your trip. Whether you need an e-visa, business visa, or visa extension, we make the process fast and stress-free.

👉 Apply for your Vietnam visa with Up Travel today!

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