Visa rules change frequently — always verify before you book.
This guide was last reviewed in May 2026. Entry requirements, fees, and stay lengths can change at short notice. Confirm the current rules with the official government sources linked below before booking flights or travelling.
- Visa needed?
- Usually yes — an e-Visa online for most nationalities. Some nationalities have short visa exemptions.
- Maximum stay
- Up to 90 days on the e-Visa; shorter periods under visa exemptions
- Cost
- A fixed e-Visa fee paid online during application
- Validity
- Single or multiple entry, up to 90 days
- Processing time
- Typically around 3 business days — apply about a week ahead
Vietnam has modernised its visa system around a convenient e-Visa that most nationalities — including the US, Canada, and Australia — can apply for entirely online. Some nationalities, including the UK and several European countries, also benefit from short visa exemptions for tourism.
This guide explains the e-Visa, who qualifies for visa-free entry, and how to apply through the official government portal.
The Vietnam e-Visa
The Vietnam e-Visa is applied for online through the official government portal. It is available to citizens of most countries and allows a stay of up to 90 days, with single- or multiple-entry options. You receive the approved e-Visa by email and present it (printed or digital) on arrival.
This is the simplest route for most travellers, including US, Canadian, and Australian citizens who do not qualify for a visa exemption.
Visa Exemptions for Some Nationalities
Vietnam grants short visa-free stays to citizens of a number of countries for tourism. Several European nationalities — including the UK, France, Germany, Italy, and Spain — have benefited from visa exemptions allowing a short stay (the exact length has been adjusted periodically, so confirm the current allowance).
If your visa-free allowance is shorter than your planned trip, apply for the e-Visa instead, which gives up to 90 days.
How to Apply for the e-Visa
- Use the official Vietnam Immigration Department e-Visa portal only
- Complete the online form and upload a passport photo and bio-page scan
- Pay the fixed e-Visa fee online
- Receive the approved e-Visa by email (typically around 3 business days)
- Print or save the e-Visa to show at immigration on arrival
Travel insurance is often required
Many visas and entry systems require proof of travel medical insurance — and even where it is not mandatory, it protects you against medical bills, cancellations, and lost baggage. Compare cover that meets visa requirements.
Compare travel insurance →Entry Requirements
- A passport valid for at least six months with blank pages
- An approved e-Visa or qualifying visa exemption
- Proof of onward travel and accommodation may be requested
- Enter via one of the designated international ports of entry accepting e-Visas
Official Sources
Always confirm the latest requirements directly with the official government website before travelling:
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes — US citizens need a visa for Vietnam, but the e-Visa makes it simple. Apply online through the official government portal for a stay of up to 90 days. US travellers do not currently qualify for a visa exemption, so the e-Visa is the standard route.