Most travelers need a visa to enter Vietnam, except citizens of the following countries who enjoy visa-free travel for specific durations:
Visa-Free Countries and Duration:
- Up to 90 Days:
- Chile
- Up to 30 Days:
- Cambodia, Indonesia, Kyrgyzstan, Laos, Malaysia, Singapore, Thailand
- Up to 21 Days:
- Philippines
- Up to 15 Days:
- Belarus*, Denmark*, Finland*, France*, Germany*, Italy*, Japan*, Norway*, Russia*, South Korea*, Spain*, Sweden*, United Kingdom*
- Up to 14 Days:
- Brunei, Myanmar
* Citizens from countries with 15-day visa-free stays must wait 30 days between visits to re-enter Vietnam visa-free.
Types of Vietnam Visas
The Vietnam Immigration Department issues several visa types based on the purpose of the visit:
- Vietnam Tourist Visa (DL): For tourism and recreational purposes.
- Vietnam Business Visa (DN): For business meetings, conferences, or other short-term professional engagements.
- Vietnam Work Visa (DN/LD): For foreign nationals working or conducting business with a Vietnamese company.
- Vietnam Student/Internship Visa (DH): For studying or interning in Vietnam.
- Vietnam Diplomatic Visa (NG1–NG4): For diplomats, government officials, and accompanying family members.
- Vietnam Investor Visa (DT): For foreign nationals investing in Vietnam businesses.
- Vietnam Transit Visa: For travelers transiting through Vietnam who intend to leave the airport’s international transit area.
Vietnam Visa Requirements
When applying for a Vietnam visa, ensure you have the following documents:
General Requirements:
- Passport:
- Valid for at least six months beyond your intended stay.
- Passport-Sized Pictures:
- Specifications:
- Size: 4 cm x 6 cm
- White background
- Neutral facial expression
- No glasses
- Religious headgear or wigs permitted but must be worn during arrival.
- Specifications:
- Vietnam Visa Application Form:
- Obtainable online or from an Embassy/Consulate.
- Proof of Visa Fee Payment:
- Receipt or other documentation as required.
- Additional Documents:
- Could include:
- Letter of Invitation or Sponsorship (if applicable).
- Travel itinerary or proof of accommodation.
- Could include:
For Vietnam Visa On Arrival:
- Pre-obtained Letter of Approval:
- Must be secured before traveling.
- Entry and Exit Form:
- Completed during the flight and submitted upon arrival.
- Cash for Stamping Fee:
- Fees vary depending on visa type (e.g., single or multiple entries).
Additional Notes:
- Application Specifics:
- Requirements may vary slightly depending on the visa type and Vietnamese Embassy/Consulate where you apply.
- Visa-Free Entries:
- Ensure your travel dates and re-entry comply with the visa-free policies, especially for countries with a 30-day wait period between entries.
Prepare your documentation thoroughly to avoid delays or issues during your Vietnam visa application process.