Planning a trip to Vietnam in 2026? Frontier Travel Vietnam has got you covered! Our quick guide will show you how to apply for a Vietnam visa easily so you can focus on enjoying your adventure ahead.
1. Vietnam Visa 2026 Update: Which Countries Can Enter Visa-Free?
Under Law No. 47/2014/QH13 and related resolutions (11/NQ-CP, 44/NQ-CP, 229/NQ-CP), Vietnam grants visa-free entry to citizens from selected countries.
The exemption duration varies depending on bilateral agreements and entry purposes.
Visa exemption up to 45 days |
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Visa exemption up to 30 days |
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Visa exemption up to 21 days |
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Visa exemption up to 14 days |
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Visa exemption up to 90 days |
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2. Vietnam Visa Requirements for 2026
Even travelers who qualify for visa exemption to enter Vietnam are still required to comply with specific entry conditions. To be granted entry, visitors must ensure they meet the following criteria:
Valid passport: The passport must remain valid for at least six months from the date of arrival in Vietnam and contain at least one blank page for immigration stamps.
Confirmed travel itinerary: Travelers should possess either a return ticket to their home country or an onward ticket to another destination, demonstrating a clear plan to depart Vietnam before the visa exemption period expires.
Legitimate purpose of entry: The visit must be for lawful and appropriate reasons such as tourism, short-term business activities, attending conferences, or visiting relatives.
Clean immigration record: Individuals must not have previously violated Vietnamese laws, overstayed in the country, or been involved in activities that breached immigration regulations.
Not subject to entry bans: Travelers must not appear on Vietnam’s immigration blacklist or be under any restriction that prohibits entry to the country.
>>> See more: Vietnam Travel Guide 2026: What Every Traveler Should Know (part 1)
3. Types of Vietnam Visas for Tourists
Foreign travelers visiting Vietnam can obtain a visa through several available channels. Currently, there are three main types of visas commonly used by tourists: E-Visa, Visa on Arrival (VOA) and Embassy/Consulate Visa.
3.1. E-Visa
The E-visa (Electronic Visa) is a type of entry visa issued by the Vietnam Immigration Department to foreign nationals through an online application system. Applicants simply need to fill out the required information on the official Vietnamese government website, make the online payment, and wait for the application to be processed and approved.
Key features of the Vietnam E-Visa
Form: Issued and received entirely online in PDF format, with no visa stamp attached to the passport.
Validity: Up to 90 days, available for single or multiple entries.
Eligible applicants: Citizens of all countries and territories.
Ports of entry: Valid for use at designated international airports, land border gates, and seaports across Vietnam.
Processing time: Typically 3–5 working days.
Fee: USD 25 for a single-entry visa and USD 50 for a multiple-entry visa.
Application website: https://evisa.gov.vn/
Advantages of the E-Visa
Submit your application quickly without the need to go through an intermediary or visit an embassy.
Reduces both the time and expenses associated with visa processing.
- Suitable for short-term visits: Ideal for tourists or travelers on brief business trips.
List of international entry points for E-Visa holders in Vietnam
To ensure smooth entry and avoid being denied at the border, travelers should use only the officially authorized entry points for electronic visas (e-Visa). These include land border gates, international airports, and seaports across Vietnam.
International border gate | Name |
Land Border Gates | Bo Y International Border Gate, Kon Tum Province |
Cha Lo International Border Gate, Quang Binh Province | |
Cau Treo International Border Gate, Ha Tinh Province | |
Huu Nghi International Border Gate, Lang Son Province | |
Ha Tien International Border Gate, Kien Giang Province | |
Lao Bao International Border Gate, Quang Tri Province | |
Lao Cai International Border Gate, Lao Cai Province | |
La Lay International Border Gate, Quang Tri Province | |
Moc Bai International Border Gate, Tay Ninh Province | |
Mong Cai International Border Gate, Quang Ninh Province | |
Nam Can International Border Gate, Nghe An Province | |
Na Meo International Border Gate, Thanh Hoa Province | |
Vinh Xuong International Border Gate (land and river), An Giang Province | |
Tinh Bien International Border Gate, An Giang Province | |
Tay Trang International Border Gate, Dien Bien Province | |
Xa Mat International Border Gate, Tay Ninh Province | |
Airport Entry Points | Cat Bi International Airport |
Cam Ranh International Airport | |
Can Tho International Airport | |
Da Nang International Airport | |
Noi Bai International Airport | |
Phu Quoc International Airport | |
Phu Bai International Airport | |
Tan Son Nhat International Airport | |
Van Don International Airport | |
Tho Xuan International Airport | |
Dong Hoi International Airport | |
Phu Cat International Airport | |
Lien Khuong International Airport | |
Seaport Entry Points | Chan May Port, Thua Thien Hue Province |
Cam Pha Port, Quang Ninh Province | |
Da Nang Port, Da Nang City | |
Duong Dong Port, Kien Giang Province | |
Dung Quat Port, Quang Ngai Province | |
Hon Gai Port, Quang Ninh Province | |
Hai Phong Port, Hai Phong City | |
Nghi Son Port, Thanh Hoa Province | |
Nha Trang Port, Khanh Hoa Province | |
Quy Nhon Port, Binh Dinh Province | |
Ho Chi Minh City Port, Ho Chi Minh City | |
Vung Ang Port, Ha Tinh Province | |
Vung Tau Port, Ba Ria – Vung Tau Province |
Conditions for granting an e-Visa
To be eligible for a Vietnam electronic visa, foreign applicants must meet the following conditions:
Current residence status: The applicant must currently reside outside the territory of Vietnam and have the intention to enter Vietnam.
Valid travel documents: The applicant must possess a valid passport or international travel document that remains effective throughout the intended stay in Vietnam.
Compliance with Vietnamese law: The applicant must not fall under the cases prohibited under Article 21 of the Law on Entry, Exit, Transit, and Residence of Foreigners in Vietnam. Specifically, entry is not permitted for the following cases:
Individuals who do not meet the conditions specified in Clause 1, Article 20 of the Law.
Children under 14 years old traveling without parents, guardians, or authorized persons.
Individuals using falsified documents or providing false information to apply for entry, exit, or residence.
Individuals with mental illnesses or infectious diseases that pose a danger to the community.
Individuals who have been deported from Vietnam within three years from the effective date of the deportation decision.
Individuals who have been forced to leave Vietnam within six months from the effective date of the expulsion decision.
Individuals restricted from entry due to epidemic prevention and control measures.
- Individuals restricted from entry due to natural disasters.
3.2. Visa on Arrival (VOA)
Visa on Arrival (VOA) is a type of visa issued at the airport upon entering Vietnam. With this form, foreign travelers do not need to apply for a visa in advance at an embassy. Instead, they only need to obtain an Approval Letter issued by the Vietnam Immigration Department before their trip.
Specifically for Vietnam, the Visa on Arrival (VOA) process usually follows these steps:
The foreign applicant submits a request for an Approval Letter through a licensed travel agency or an authorized organization in Vietnam.
After approval by the Vietnam Immigration Department, the applicant will receive the Approval Letter via email.
Upon arrival at an international airport in Vietnam (such as Hanoi, Da Nang or Ho Chi Minh City), the traveler presents the Approval Letter, passport, photos, and visa stamping fee to have the visa affixed directly at the airport.
Basic information about Visa on Arrival (VOA)
Eligible Applicants: Visa on Arrival is suitable for travelers, family visitors, or those planning a short stay in Vietnam, especially for individuals who need to enter Vietnam urgently or do not have enough time to apply for a visa in advance at an embassy or consulate.
Validity Period: The visa is typically valid for 1 month or 3 months, depending on the purpose of entry and length of stay.
Types of Visa:
Single-entry visa: Allows the holder to enter Vietnam only once during the visa’s validity period. If the traveler leaves Vietnam and wishes to return, a new visa application is required.
- Multiple-entry visa: Permits multiple entries and exits within the validity period of the visa.
Processing Time: The Approval Letter issued by the Vietnam Immigration Department is usually processed within 24–48 working hours.
Requirements for applying for a Visa on Arrival:
A passport valid for at least 6 months from the date of entry.
A valid Approval Letter issued by the Vietnam Immigration Department.
Arrival by air through one of Vietnam’s international airports, including Noi Bai, Tan Son Nhat, Da Nang, Cam Ranh, Can Tho, Phu Quoc, Lien Khuong, or Cat Bi.
- The applicant must not be on the immigration blacklist.
List of international airports issuing Visa on Arrival:
Noi Bai Airport (Hanoi)
Tan Son Nhat Airport (Ho Chi Minh City)
Da Nang Airport
Cam Ranh Airport (Khanh Hoa)
Can Tho Airport
Phu Quoc Airport (Kien Giang)
Lien Khuong Airport (Da Lat)
Cat Bi Airport (Hai Phong)
Required documents for obtaining a Vietnam Visa on Arrival
To successfully obtain a Vietnam Visa on Arrival, travelers must prepare the following materials as per current immigration regulations:
Visa Approval Letter: This document, issued by the Vietnam Immigration Department or an authorized visa agency, should clearly state the applicant’s full name, passport number, nationality, visa type (single-entry or multiple-entry), validity period (1 or 3 months), and the international airport where the visa will be collected (HAN, SGN, DAD, CXR, PQC, HUI, VDH or VCA).
Form NA1– Visa Application Form: The official form prescribed by the Immigration Department, which must be accurately completed with personal details, approval letter information, purpose of visit (tourism, business, family visit, or investment), and the expected length of stay in Vietnam.
Photographs: Two passport-sized photos (4×6 cm) taken on a white background within the last six months. The applicant should not wear glasses or headwear in the photos.
Passport: The original passport must be valid for at least six months beyond the intended entry date and contain a minimum of two blank pages for the visa sticker and entry/exit stamps.
Visa Stamping Fee: This fee is paid in cash at the visa counter upon arrival, in accordance with Decree 70/2023/ND-CP. The current fees are: 25 USD for a single-entry 1-month visa. 45 USD for a single-entry 3-month visa. 50 USD for a multiple-entry 1-month visa. 75 USD for a multiple-entry 3-month visa
Printed Copy of the Approval Letter: The document must be clearly printed and easy to read. Travelers are advised to bring extra copies in case the original becomes lost or damaged.
Return or Onward Ticket: Immigration officers may request to see a confirmed return or onward flight ticket to verify travel plans.
Accommodation Proof: Although not always required, providing a hotel booking confirmation or contact details of the host in Vietnam can help facilitate the immigration process.
3.3. Embassy/Consulate Visa
Embassy/Consulate Visa is a type of visa issued directly at the Vietnamese Embassy or Consulate abroad, before a foreigner enters Vietnam.
In other words, this is the traditional visa application method, where applicants must visit the Vietnamese diplomatic mission in their country to submit their documents, wait for approval, and receive the visa stamped directly in their passport before traveling to Vietnam.
Advantages:
The visa is already stamped in the passport before departure, so travelers do not need to wait at the airport.
Suitable for those entering Vietnam by land, sea, or air.
- The process is clear, transparent, and conducted directly with the Vietnamese diplomatic mission.
Disadvantages:
Requires traveling to the Embassy or Consulate to submit the application.
Processing time is longer compared to e-Visa or Visa on Arrival.
- Not convenient for urgent entry cases.
Some basic information about Embassy/Consulate Visa
Who should apply: Those who need a long-term or special visa, or those entering via land or sea borders.
Processing time: 5–10 working days.
Validity period: Depends on the type of visa requested.
- Where to apply: At the nearest Vietnamese Embassy or Consulate.
4. How to get a visa for Vietnam
If you’re planning to visit Vietnam, obtaining a visa is an essential step before your trip. Here’s a clear step-by-step guide on how to get a Vietnam visa.
4.1. How to apply for a Vietnam e-Visa
Step 1: Gather Your Documents
Before starting your application, ensure you have all necessary documents ready:
A clear scan or photo of your passport’s personal information page, which must remain valid for at least six months from your intended entry date into Vietnam.
A recent passport-style photo with a white background, showing your full face without hats or sunglasses, in the required size (usually 4x6 cm).
Step 2: Complete the Application Online
Go to the official Vietnam Immigration website: https://evisa.gov.vn
Click “Apply Now” to start the e-Visa application.
Confirm that you comply with Vietnamese laws, have read all instructions, and have prepared your documents.
Fill out the online e-Visa form, which includes uploading your passport photo and personal information page, providing personal details, passport and contact information, employment information, travel plans, estimated expenses, and insurance details if required.
- Double-check all information to ensure it is correct before submission.
Step 3: Payment and Processing
Select your preferred payment option: Apple Pay, QR Code, ATM card, Internet Banking, or major credit cards (Visa, MasterCard, JCB, Amex).
Provide payment details or scan the QR code to pay the e-Visa fee.
Confirm and verify your payment using OTP if required.
After successful payment, you will receive a confirmation, and your e-Visa will typically be processed within 3–5 business days.
4.2. How to apply for a Visa on Arrival (VOA)
Step 1: Obtain a Visa Approval Letter
Foreign nationals cannot apply directly to the Vietnam Immigration Department, so you will need to contact a visa service provider or a sponsor in Vietnam.
Prepare the necessary documents, including a scanned copy of your passport’s personal information page, travel details (entry date and airport), a passport-sized photo (4×6 cm, white background), and the NA1 form provided by the visa service.
The approval letter is usually processed within 3–5 working days. For urgent requests, processing can take 4–8 hours for an extra fee.
Once approved, the letter will be sent to your email as a PDF file. Print this letter to present at the Visa on Arrival counter upon arrival in Vietnam.
Step 2: Prepare for Visa on Arrival at the Airport
Make sure you have the following ready:
Printed visa approval letter
Completed NA1 visa application form
Two passport-sized photos (4×6 cm, white background)
Original passport, valid for at least six months
- Visa stamping fee in cash (USD), to be paid at the counter
Step 3: Submit Your Application at the Visa Counter
Present your visa approval letter along with all the required documents.
Pay the visa stamping fee in cash (USD).
- Confirm that all your personal information on the visa is accurate.
Step 4: Receive Your Visa and Complete Entry
After submitting the documents and payment, the immigration officer will stamp the visa in your passport.
Verify the visa type, validity period, and your personal information.
- Once the entry stamp is applied, you have officially entered Vietnam.
4.3. How to apply for an Embassy/Consulate Visa
Step 1: Gather required documents
Download the visa application form from the official website of the Vietnamese Embassy or Consulate. Complete the form with your personal information, purpose of travel, and intended duration of stay. Prepare your original passport, valid for at least six months, two passport-sized photos (4×6 cm, white background), an invitation letter or other supporting documents if needed, and any additional papers requested. Also, prepare the visa fee according to the embassy or consulate’s instructions.
Step 2: Submit your application
Submit your completed application in person at the nearest Vietnamese Embassy or Consulate. Some missions may allow submission by mail or courier service, so verify the specific procedures in advance.
Step 3: Pay the visa fee
Pay the required visa fee as directed by the embassy or consulate. Depending on the location, payment can usually be made in cash, by bank transfer, or via credit card, either at the time of submission or upon receipt of the visa.
Step 4: Wait for processing
Visa processing generally takes 5–10 business days, though it can vary depending on the visa type and the embassy or consulate. Applications for special visas or those requiring additional verification may require more time.
Step 5: Receive Your Visa
Once approved, you will receive your passport with the visa attached. The visa can be collected in person at the embassy or consulate, or it can be mailed to you if prior arrangements are made.
Step 6: Check the Visa Details
Carefully review all information on the visa, including your full name, visa category, validity period, and number of entries. Contact the issuing authority immediately if you notice any errors so they can be corrected.
5. Some notes for applying for a Vietnam visa in 2026
Before traveling to Vietnam in 2026, it’s essential to understand the key points for obtaining a visa. Following these tips will help ensure a smooth and hassle-free entry into the country.
Check the appropriate type of visa: Clearly identify the purpose of entry (tourism, business, visiting relatives, investment, etc.) to choose the suitable visa type (e-Visa, Visa on Arrival, or Embassy/Consulate Visa).
Valid passport: The passport must be valid for at least 6 months from the date of entry and have enough blank pages for the visa and entry/exit stamps.
Prepare complete documents: This includes the passport, photos, visa application form, invitation letter (if required), and any additional documents requested for the specific visa type.
Accurate information: Fill out all forms and documents completely and correctly to avoid delays or visa rejection.
Check special entry requirements: Stay updated on health regulations, epidemic control measures, or any entry restrictions before your trip.
Visa application timing: Apply for the visa early, especially for Embassy/Consulate visas, to avoid delays affecting your travel plans.
>>> See more: Vietnam Travel Guide 2026: What Every Traveler Should Know (part 2)
6. Vietnam visa FAQs
- What is a Vietnam visa?
A Vietnam visa is an entry permit issued by the Immigration Department that allows foreigners to enter, stay and leave Vietnam within a specified period.
- What types of visas are available for entering Vietnam?
There are three main types of visas: e-Visa, Visa on Arrival (VOA) and Embassy/Consulate Visa.
- What is the validity period of a Vietnam visa?
Depending on the type, visas are usually valid for 1 month or 3 months and may allow single or multiple entries.
- Is the e-Visa available for all nationalities?
Yes. Currently, Vietnam e-Visa is issued to citizens of all countries.
- How long does it take to process a visa?
Processing time depends on the visa type: e-Visa: Approximately 3 working days.Visa on Arrival: Approval letter usually takes 24–48 hours, with the visa issued directly at the airport. Embassy/Consulate Visa: Typically 3–5 working days or longer depending on the application.
- Can a visa be extended while in Vietnam?
Yes, but it must be done at the Vietnam Immigration Department or through a reliable visa service before the current visa expires.
- Do children need a separate visa?
Children under 14 years old can travel with their parents or guardians; if traveling alone, they must apply for a separate visa according to regulations.
The above provides basic information about Vietnam visas and guidance on how to apply, and we hope it will be helpful for your trip. Being well-prepared with the required documents and understanding the visa application process will save you time, prevent complications, and allow you to fully enjoy your journey. We wish you memorable experiences and the opportunity to discover the very best of Vietnam!
