The visa policies of Vietnam are subject to periodic revisions, and the entry policies are subject to change with short notice. Although the information contained in this article is based on the latest information available until 2026, it is always best to check with the official website of the Vietnam Immigration Department for the latest information.
The information contained in this article is intended to be relevant to tourists holding passports of the United States of America, the United Kingdom, Australia, and Canada only.
Do You Need a Visa for Vietnam?
Vietnam has different policies depending on nationality. The following is a simplified comparison of the main English-speaking countries.
| Nationality | Visa Required? | Stay Duration | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| USA | Yes | Up to 90 days (e-visa) | Multiple entry available |
| UK | No (for short stay) | Up to 45 days visa-free | Passport must meet validity rules |
| Australia | Yes | Up to 90 days (e-visa) | Multiple entry available |
| Canada | Yes | Up to 90 days (e-visa) | Multiple entry available |
Key Points by Nationality
United States passport holders
- Visa is required for all visits.
- The most popular choice is a 90-day e-visa, which is single entry or multiple entry.
United Kingdom passport holders
- Visa exemption is allowed for 45-day visits.
- For longer visits, an e-visa is needed.
Australian passport holders
- Visa is required.
- The 90-day e-visa is the most popular choice.
Canadian passport holders
- Visa is required.
- The 90-day e-visa is single entry or multiple entry.
For travel to Cambodia, Laos, Thailand, and other neighboring countries, multiple entry is a necessity.
Vietnam E-Visa Explained
What Is the Vietnam E-Visa?
The Vietnam E-visa is an official electronic visa issued by the Vietnam Immigration Department. The E-visa enables eligible nationals of various countries to enter Vietnam without visiting the embassy or consulate.
The E-visa is the most used visa for US, Australian, and Canadian citizens, and for UK citizens whose stay is more than 45 days.
Validity & Entry Type (2026)
- Visa valid for up to 90 days
- Visa for single entry or multiple entries available
- Visa valid for tourism and/or certain business activities
Visa validity period is fixed. The entry into the country is allowed only within the stipulated period.
Processing Time
- Standard processing: 3-5 working days
- During peak travel seasons (December, January, February, and Tet holiday), the processing time might be longer
No express processing available through official channels
Government Fee
- Visa fee for single entry: USD 25
- Visa fee for multiple entries: USD 50
Visa fee is payable online and is not refunded, even in case of denial of a visa
Eligible Entry Points
E-Visas are accepted at major international entry points, including:
- Airports: Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, Da Nang, Nha Trang, Phu Quoc
- Land borders: Cambodia, Laos, and China (at designated border crossings only)
- Certain seaports
It is important to ensure that the entry points accept e-visas before applying for an e-visa
How to Apply for a Vietnam E-Visa (Step-by-Step)
It’s an entirely online application process, and accuracy is a key requirement.
Step 1: Prepare Your Passport Scan
- A clear photo of the passport’s photo page
- Passport valid for at least 6 months beyond the date of entry into Vietnam
- A minimum of one blank page
Step 2: Prepare a Passport-Style Photo
- A white background
- No glasses
- A neutral facial expression
- A JPEG photo of the correct size
Step 3: Complete the Online Application Form
To apply for an E-Visa, you’ll need:
- A full name as it appears on your passport
- Passport number
- Date of birth
- Nationality
- Date of entry into Vietnam
- Date of exit from Vietnam
- Intended port of entry into Vietnam
- Vietnam address (hotel name is required for this field)
Step 4: Pay the Government Fee
- Payment of the fee is done with a credit/debit card
- Fee is non-refundable
Step 5: Wait for Processing
- Processing usually takes 3-5 working days
- Approval letter sent electronically
Step 6: Download and Print the E-Visa
- A physical copy of the E-Visa needs to be printed
- A digital copy of the E-Visa needs to be saved on your phone
Common Mistakes That Cause Delays
From practical experience, some of the most common errors are:
- Incorrect passport number
- Incorrect passport expiry date
- Typographical errors in name (i.e., missing middle name)
- Incorrect entry port
- Incorrect date of arrival
In case any of the information does not exactly match the information on the passport, immigration authorities may refuse entry.
Visa Exemptions (If Applicable)
UK Passport Holders
Citizens of the United Kingdom can travel to Vietnam visa-free for up to 45 days for tourism.
Conditions:
- Passport validity of at least 6 months
- Confirmed return or onward ticket
- Not exceeding 45 days of stay
If the stay is more than 45 days, a visa is required before travel.
Phu Quoc Island Special Case
Citizens can get a short-term visa exemption if they arrive on Phu Quoc Island, but this exemption does not apply if they travel to mainland Vietnam.
Passport & Entry Requirements
The following requirements apply regardless of the type of visa:
Passport Validity
- Minimum 6 months validity from date of entry
- At least one blank visa page
Blank Pages
- Immigration stamps require blank pages
- Damaged passports may be rejected
Onward or Return Ticket
Airlines may require proof of onward ticket before boarding
Travel Insurance
Not necessary but highly recommended
- Medical insurance
- Emergency evacuation
- Trip interruption insurance
Visa on Arrival – Is It Still Available?
Visa on Arrival is no longer available to independent tourists.
Currently:
- Only applicable in the case of Air Travel
- Need a pre-approval letter issued prior to travel
- Usually arranged through a licensed agency
- Not applicable in the case of Land or Sea Travel
For most US, Australian, Canadian visitors, the electronic visa is a more accessible option.
It may still be considered in urgent business situations; however, it is no longer the standard in 2026.
What Happens at Immigration?
Arrival procedures are explained here to help alleviate any stress or anxiety about the process.
Step 1: Disembark and Follow Immigration Signs
For Airports such as:
- Noi Bai Airport – Hanoi
- Tan Son Nhat Airport – Ho Chi Minh City
- Da Nang International Airport
Look for signs saying “Foreign Passport.”
Step 2: Document Check
Bring:
- Passport
- Printed e-Visa (if applicable)
- Arrival Card (if applicable)
Immigration officers will:
- Scan Passport
- Verify Visa Validity
- Stamp Passport for entry date
Step 3: Baggage Claim & Customs
Customs are minimal for most travelers. However, be prepared for possible delays if carrying large sums of cash or commercial goods.
Special Considerations
Traveling with Children
- Each child must be issued their own visa (if necessary)
- Each child must be in possession of their own passport
- The name must match the child’s passport exactly
Dual Citizenship
Travelers must:
- Enter Vietnam with the same passport they will depart with
- Ensure the visa matches the passport used
Changing passports during a trip can cause difficulties when exiting Vietnam.
Overstaying Penalties
Overstaying a visa will incur:
- Daily penalties
- Delays in exiting Vietnam
- Inability to enter Vietnam in the future
The penalties depend on the length of the overstay.
Entry During Tet Holiday
The Tet holiday, which celebrates the Vietnamese Lunar New Year, will impact:
- Visa processing times
- Immigration office hours
- Embassy hours
It is suggested to apply at least 2-3 weeks in advance during this time.
Final Notes
Visa policy is constantly updated. This article was published in 2026, but the information on the visa requirements for Vietnam may change, particularly for first-time visitors who are planning their dream trip. To get the latest information on the Vietnam visa requirements for first time visitors 2026, including the Vietnam e-visa for first time travelers, you can check the official website of the Vietnam Immigration (evisa.gov.vn or immigration.gov.vn) or the embassy/consulate of Vietnam in your home country before you leave for your first time in Vietnam adventure!.
It’s always best to apply in advance to avoid any inconvenience upon arrival in Vietnam. Once your visa is sorted, it’s time to start your adventure, and our expert Vietnam tours at Origin Vietnam take care of everything else.
FAQs
Do US citizens need a visa to travel to Vietnam?
Yes. US passport holders need a visa to travel to Vietnam. The most common type of visa is the 90-day e-visa. This type of visa is either single or multiple entry. The application is done online through the official government website. Visa-free travel is not allowed for US passport holders.
How long does it take to get a Vietnam E-visa?
It takes 3 to 5 working days to get a Vietnam E-visa. In peak travel season, such as the December holidays or Tet, it may take longer. It is recommended to apply at least 1-2 weeks prior to traveling. There is no same-day service.
Can I extend my Vietnam visa?
It is possible to extend a Vietnam visa. Extensions are not guaranteed. Extensions are usually done through a licensed visa service company in Vietnam. This is dependent on the type of visa. It is recommended to plan ahead and stay within the duration stipulated in the visa.
What happens if my Vietnam E-visa gets denied?
If the application gets denied, the government fee is non-refundable. In this eventuality, it is recommended to reapply. The denial could have been caused by a wrong application. It is recommended to double-check the passport numbers, dates, and spelling before applying.
Is the “Visa on Arrival” in Vietnam still available?
“Visa on Arrival” is available but in limited numbers, and travelers need to obtain a pre-approved letter in advance. This type of visa is only available for air travelers and cannot be used for those entering the country through land or sea routes. However, for the majority of tourists planning to visit Vietnam in 2026, the “e-visa” is the best option.
How much does a Vietnamese visa cost?
According to the Vietnamese Government, the cost for a single-entry “e-visa” is USD 25, while a multiple-entry “e-visa” will cost USD 50. This amount has to be paid in advance while filling out the form for the “e-visa.”
Can British citizens enter Vietnam without a visa?
British citizens are allowed to enter Vietnam without a visa for a stay of up to 45 days for tourism or other short-term stays. However, for those planning to stay in Vietnam for longer than 45 days, a visa will need to be applied for in advance.
Do I need to print my Vietnamese “e-visa”?
Yes, you will need to print your Vietnamese “e-visa” as it is not just a digital document. There are chances that airlines may request the printed version of the “e-visa” during check-in, and immigration officers may ask for the physical version of the “e-visa” during arrival in the country.
From arrival gateways to departure pacing, each decision influences the overall journey flow. Our Vietnam planning guide explains how these elements connect.
