Vietnam Visa Guide 2026: E-Visa, Exemptions & Tips

Vietnam's visa policy has gotten significantly more traveler-friendly in recent years. As of 2026, citizens of 25 countries can enter visa-free for up to 45 days, and the e-visa system covers almost everyone else.

The e-visa is the way to go for most travelers. It costs $25, takes 3 business days to process, and is valid for 90 days with single entry. Apply through the official government portal — not third-party sites that charge extra fees for the same service.

Visa-exempt countries include the UK (45 days), Germany, France, Italy, Spain (45 days), Japan, South Korea (45 days), and several ASEAN nations. Check the latest list before your trip — exemptions have been expanded several times recently.

Common mistakes at immigration: your passport must be valid for at least 6 months beyond your entry date. Have a printed copy of your e-visa approval (some airports accept digital, but don't risk it). And make sure the entry port on your e-visa matches where you're actually arriving.

If you're planning to stay longer than 90 days or need multiple entries, you'll need a traditional visa through a Vietnamese embassy or consulate. Processing takes about a week and costs vary by country.