vietnam visa policy 2026: e-visa, exemptions, requirements & how to apply

Vietnam welcomes millions of visitors each year for tourism, business, study, and family visits. In 2026, the Vietnam visa policy remains straightforward: most travelers either use the streamlined Vietnam e-Visa system or enter visa-free under bilateral exemption programs for short stays. This guide explains every route—who needs a visa, who is exempt, what the e-Visa allows, required documents, exact steps to apply, and how to avoid overstay penalties.

What Is the Vietnam Visa Policy? Key Facts for 2026

• Most nationalities can apply online for a Vietnam e-Visa.

• Select nationalities enjoy visa-free entry for short stays under exemption schemes.

• If you plan a longer stay, specific work/study, or multiple short trips, choose the e-Visa (commonly up to 90 days, multiple entry) or an embassy/consulate visa depending on your purpose.

• Transit passengers who remain airside within the airport’s international transit area for short connections typically do not require a visa.

Vietnam E-Visa in 2026: Who Can Apply & What You Get

Vietnam’s e-Visa is designed for convenient, secure online applications—ideal for tourists, business travelers, family visitors, conferences, short courses, and market visits.

Vietnam e-Visa Validity, Entries & Permitted Activities

• Validity & Stay: commonly issued for stays up to 90 days.

• Entries: typically multiple-entry during the e-Visa validity window, enabling side trips within the region.

• Activities allowed: tourism, business meetings, trade fairs, short professional visits, visiting relatives/friends, and other non-remunerated activities. (Paid employment requires appropriate permits.)

Eligible Ports of Entry for the e-Visa (Air, Land, Sea)

You can arrive and depart through major international airports (e.g., Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, Da Nang, Nha Trang, Phu Quoc), designated land borders with neighboring countries, and approved seaports. Choose your intended entry/exit points in the application and keep them consistent with your travel plan.

Vietnam e-Visa Requirements & Accepted File Formats

• Passport: minimum 6 months validity from your intended entry date; at least 1–2 blank pages.

• Digital photo: recent, front-facing, plain background, per standard passport photo rules.

• Passport data page scan: clear, unobstructed, readable MRZ.

• Itinerary basics: provisional entry point, intended dates, accommodation contact.

• Payment method: international debit/credit card for the government fee.

Visa-Exempt Nationalities & Length of Stay

Vietnam grants visa-free entry to select nationalities for short visits (tourism/business). Exemption stay limits typically range from 14 to 45 days based on bilateral arrangements and may be extendable in-country under specific conditions. If you plan multiple short visits across 2026 or need longer stays, the e-Visa is generally more flexible.

Embassy/Consulate Visa: When You Need One

Apply through a Vietnamese embassy/consulate if:

• Your purpose (e.g., long-term work, study, residence) requires a category not covered by the e-Visa.

• You need stays longer than 90 days in a single stretch.

• Your situation requires special documentation (e.g., work permit, sponsorship, family reunification with extended validity).

Transit in Vietnam: Do You Need a Visa?

If you do not leave the international transit area and your layover is short (e.g., within 24 hours), a visa is typically not required.
If you mean to exit the airport or have an overnight connection outside airside, apply for a transit-appropriate visa/e-Visa in advance.

Step-by-Step: How to Apply for a Vietnam e-Visa Online in 2026

Pre-Application Checklist

• Valid passport (6+ months remaining)

• Clear photo & passport scan ready for upload

• Accurate travel plan (entry point, intended dates, accommodation)

• Card for fee payment

Online Application Steps

1. Complete the e-Visa form: enter personal details, passport info, and trip plan.

2. Upload documents: compliant photo and passport data page.

3. Select entry/exit ports and proposed dates.

4. Pay the government fee securely online.

5. Receive your e-Visa result via email notification; download the PDF/printout.

6. Before you fly: verify that your name, passport number, and dates match your passport. Carry a hard copy to present at immigration.

Processing Time, Fees & Status Tracking

• Typical processing: 3–7 working days (peak seasons may be longer).

• Fees: government fee is mandatory; optional priority handling via professional services may be available.

• Keep your application ID and email handy to check status.

Changing or Extending Your Stay in Vietnam

Visa Extension vs. Visa Run vs. New e-Visa

• Extension: apply in-country through immigration or a licensed service if your category allows extended stay.

• Visa run: leave Vietnam and return with a new e-Visa if extension isn’t available for your case.

• New e-Visa: suitable if you plan multiple trips within a year and want fresh validity.

Overstay Rules, Fines & Blacklist Risks

Overstays incur fines and can lead to deportation or temporary entry bans. Always apply at least 7–10 days before your current permission expires.

Vietnam Tourist vs. Business Travel: The Right Visa Type

• Tourist e-Visa: sightseeing, leisure, family/friends visits.

• Business e-Visa: meetings, conferences, trade shows, short non-remunerated professional visits.
  If you will work for pay or take employment, secure the appropriate work visa/permit via employer sponsorship.

Common Mistakes & How to Avoid Rejection

• Name/Passport mismatch: ensure exact spelling and numbers.

• Low-quality uploads: blurred photo or passport scan causes delays.

• Wrong entry port/dates: keep your plan consistent; update if needed.

• Invalid passport: less than 6 months validity at entry will be refused.

• Assuming visa-free eligibility: confirm your exemption rules and stay limits.

Why Apply Through a Professional Vietnam Visa Service

• Error-free application: experts validate photos, scans, and data before submission.

• Faster turnarounds: priority handling options during peak season.

• Real-time updates: proactive follow-ups reduce uncertainty.

• Reduced risk: avoid impersonators and fake portals that can compromise your personal data or leave you stranded at the border.

Risks of DIY or Unverified Agents

• Submitting incorrect details → refusal or airport denial.

• Fraudulent sites imitating official pages → data theft and invalid “visas.”

• Missed deadlines → overstay fines or forced exit.

Apply for Your Vietnam e-Visa Today (CTA)

Ready to travel? Apply for your Vietnam e-Visa online through our website for guided checks, priority filing, and dedicated support across 2026 peak seasons.