Do I Need a Visa for Vietnam? What to Check Before You Travel
Whether you need a visa for Vietnam depends on the passport you will use, the purpose of your visit and how long you plan to stay. Before applying or paying for a service, check which entry arrangement applies to your trip.
A friend’s experience may be helpful, but it is not enough to confirm your own requirements. Two travellers taking the same flight can have different visa needs.
Start with your passport nationality
Use the nationality shown on the passport you intend to present when travelling. Your country of residence is a separate detail.
For example, living in Europe does not automatically give you the same Vietnam entry requirements as a European passport holder. If you have more than one nationality, decide which passport you will use before checking the applicable rules.
Also identify your passport type. An ordinary passport and another type of travel document may require different checks.
Check whether a visa exemption applies
Vietnam has visa exemption arrangements for certain travellers. Their conditions and permitted stays vary, so confirm that the arrangement covers your nationality, passport and intended visit.
Do not assume that a visa exemption allows an unlimited stay or applies to every itinerary. Consult the relevant Vietnamese embassy or consulate when your situation is unclear. Official guidance on entry and visa requirements
Consider an e-visa when a visa is needed
Vietnam’s electronic visa can be issued for up to 90 days, with single or multiple entry. The dates and entry conditions on the visa actually issued are what you should check for your journey. Vietnam Immigration Department
The maximum available validity is not a reason to ignore your planned dates. Prepare your intended arrival, departure and any trips outside Vietnam before selecting an option.
Look at your complete itinerary
Write down:
- The passport nationality you will travel with.
- Your purpose of visit.
- Your intended arrival and departure dates.
- Whether you will leave Vietnam and return.
- Your planned entry point.
For example, a holiday entirely within Vietnam differs from a regional trip that includes Vietnam, Cambodia and a return to Vietnam. Consider the whole route before choosing an entry option.
Frequently asked questions
Does my country of residence determine whether I need a visa?
Start with your passport nationality and passport type. Residence information may be relevant to a particular application, but it should not replace those checks.
Should I apply for an e-visa before checking visa exemption?
Check whether an exemption applies first, then choose the appropriate route for your trip.
What if I change my itinerary?
Review your visa or exemption conditions again, particularly the travel dates and any additional entry.
Check your next step with WOW VN Visa
Have your nationality, travel dates and purpose of visit ready. Open the chatbot on WOW VN Visa to ask about your next step and the assistance available for your trip.
