Vietnam Visa: Frequently Asked Questions

Straight answers on Vietnam e-visas: who needs one, fees, 90-day validity, entry ports, extensions and refunds, all verified against official 2026 rules.

Last updated: 12 September 2026

Do I need a visa to enter Vietnam?

It depends on your nationality and the applicable visa-exemption rules. Many travelers can apply for a Vietnam E-Visa online, while citizens of certain countries may be eligible for visa-free entry for a specified period. If you are not covered by a visa exemption, the Vietnam E-Visa is one of the main options for traveling to Vietnam. Vietnam's official Immigration Department states that foreigners who are outside Vietnam and hold a valid passport can apply for an E-Visa, provided they do not fall under the applicable entry-exclusion rules.

Who can apply for a Vietnam E-Visa?

Vietnam E-Visas are available to foreign travelers from all countries and territories, subject to the applicable immigration conditions. The applicant must generally be outside Vietnam when applying, hold a valid passport or travel document, and provide accurate application information. Incorrect or incomplete information can result in the application not being accepted.

How long is a Vietnam E-Visa valid?

A Vietnam E-Visa can be valid for up to 90 days. Applicants can choose between: single entry or multiple entry. The exact validity period is determined by the visa issued and shown on the E-Visa. A multiple-entry E-Visa allows eligible travelers to enter and leave Vietnam during its validity period, subject to the conditions stated on the visa.

How much does a Vietnam E-Visa cost?

The official government E-Visa fee is: US$25 for a single-entry E-Visa and US$50 for a multiple-entry E-Visa. The Vietnam Immigration Department states that the E-Visa fee is paid electronically through the designated payment system. If you use a private visa assistance service, any additional service fee is separate from the official government E-Visa fee.

How long does a Vietnam E-Visa take to process?

The official Vietnam Immigration Department states that an E-Visa application is processed in approximately 3 working days after the required information and payment have been completed. Applicants should allow additional time when possible because incorrect information, missing documents, payment problems or other issues can affect processing.

Can I apply for a Vietnam E-Visa while I am already in Vietnam?

The standard online E-Visa application is intended for foreigners who are outside Vietnam. If you are already in Vietnam, the Immigration Department states that an E-Visa holder may be considered for a new visa where an eligible authority, organization or individual in Vietnam invites or guarantees the foreigner in accordance with Vietnamese immigration law.

How many times can I enter Vietnam with an E-Visa?

It depends on the type of E-Visa issued. A single-entry E-Visa permits one entry. A multiple-entry E-Visa permits multiple entries during the visa's validity period, subject to the conditions printed on the visa.

Which entry ports can I use with a Vietnam E-Visa?

Vietnam has an expanded network of approved entry and exit checkpoints for E-Visa travelers. Following Government Resolution No. 389/NQ-CP, issued on December 2, 2025, Vietnam added 41 international checkpoints, bringing the total number of E-Visa entry and exit checkpoints to 83: 17 airports, 27 land border gates and 39 seaports. Two airports listed in the resolution, Long Thanh International Airport and Gia Binh International Airport, are subject to becoming operational before they can be used for this purpose. Always make sure the entry checkpoint selected on your application matches your actual travel plans.

Can I enter Vietnam through any airport?

No. You should use an airport or other checkpoint that is authorized for E-Visa entry. Vietnam's Immigration Department maintains a designated list of E-Visa entry and exit ports. Because checkpoint arrangements can change, travelers should verify their selected entry point before departure.

Can I change my Vietnam E-Visa entry date?

Your E-Visa is valid only during the start and end dates shown on the issued visa. You may enter Vietnam during that validity period, but you should not assume that submitting an application automatically gives you permission to enter on any date. Check the dates printed on your approved E-Visa before traveling.

Can I extend my Vietnam E-Visa?

An E-Visa should not be treated as automatically extendable. Vietnam Immigration states that an E-Visa holder who is already in Vietnam may be considered for a new visa if invited or guaranteed by an eligible authority, organization or individual in Vietnam in accordance with Vietnamese law. Therefore, travelers who need to stay longer should arrange the appropriate immigration procedure before their current authorized stay expires.

Can I get a refund if my Vietnam E-Visa application is refused?

No. The official Vietnam Immigration Department states that the E-Visa fee is not refunded if the application is refused. This means applicants should carefully check passport information, personal details, travel information and other required information before submitting the application.

Can I get a refund if I change my travel plans?

The official E-Visa fee is generally non-refundable once paid, including where the application is refused. For private visa assistance, any separate service fee is governed by the service provider's own terms and conditions. Applicants should review those terms before making payment.

What documents do I need for a Vietnam E-Visa?

The standard online application requires information from your passport and a suitable personal photograph. The Vietnam Immigration Department's application instructions require the applicant to upload: the passport data page, a personal photograph, and the required personal and travel information. The information should be entered accurately because missing or incorrect information can affect the application.

How do I check my Vietnam E-Visa application?

You can check your application using the registration code, email address and date of birth provided during the application process. If approved, the official system provides the E-Visa for download and printing.

Do I need to print my Vietnam E-Visa?

Yes. Once your E-Visa is approved, you should download and print it and carry it with your passport when traveling. The Vietnam Immigration Department specifically instructs approved applicants to print their E-Visa for entry and exit from Vietnam.

Can I use a Vietnam E-Visa for tourism and business travel?

The appropriate visa purpose and immigration category depend on your circumstances. Vietnam offers different visa categories and immigration procedures. Travelers should make sure that the visa they apply for matches the purpose of their visit and the information provided in their application.

Is a Vietnam E-Visa the same as a visa on arrival?

No. A Vietnam E-Visa is issued electronically before travel and can be used at designated E-Visa entry and exit checkpoints. Visa on arrival is a different immigration process and should not be confused with the online E-Visa system.

Can I enter Vietnam if my passport information is incorrect on my E-Visa?

You should not assume that an incorrect E-Visa can be used successfully. Passport number, full name, date of birth and other important information should be entered exactly as shown in the passport. The Immigration Department warns that missing or incorrect information can result in the application not being accepted.

How far in advance should I apply for a Vietnam E-Visa?

It is sensible to apply well before your planned travel date rather than waiting until the last moment. The official processing time is approximately 3 working days, but applicants should allow extra time for weekends, holidays, corrections, payment issues or other unexpected delays.

Where can I apply for the official Vietnam E-Visa?

Vietnam's Immigration Department currently operates the official E-Visa system through its designated electronic visa portals. The department has confirmed the official E-Visa domains and advises applicants to use them for submitting applications and checking results.

What happens if my Vietnam E-Visa is refused?

If an application is refused, the official E-Visa fee is not refunded. Applicants should carefully review their information before submission and make sure that their passport details, photograph and travel information are accurate and complete.

Can I leave and re-enter Vietnam during my E-Visa validity?

Yes, if you have been issued a multiple-entry E-Visa. A multiple-entry E-Visa permits eligible travelers to enter and exit Vietnam multiple times during the validity period shown on the visa. A single-entry E-Visa does not provide the same multiple-entry privilege.

What is the most important thing to check before traveling?

Before you fly, check these details carefully: your passport number and personal information, E-Visa validity dates, single-entry or multiple-entry status, approved entry checkpoint, passport validity, and a printed copy of your approved E-Visa. A small error in an application can create unnecessary problems at the border, so reviewing the issued E-Visa before departure is strongly recommended.

Need Help With Your Vietnam Visa?

If you are unsure which Vietnam visa option is suitable for your trip, need help checking your application information, or are traveling on a tight schedule, professional visa assistance can help you prepare the application correctly. Government visa fees and private assistance fees are separate. Any expedited assistance should be understood as a private service and should not be presented as a guarantee of government approval or a guaranteed immigration decision.