How to Get a Visa for Vietnam

Getting a visa for Vietnam is required for many travelers. Most don’t need to apply at a consulate or embassy though. For most visitors to Vietnam, the e-visa is the most convenient visa option.

Do I need a visa for Vietnam?

Most travelers will need a visa to enter and travel within Vietnam. This includes travelers from the US, Canada, and Australia. If you’re not from one of these countries and are unsure whether or not you need a visa for Vietnam, it’s best to contact your nearest Vietnamese Embassy or Consulate.

What is the e-visa for Vietnam?

The Vietnam e-visa is a travel document that will allow you to enter and travel within Vietnam. The cost is approximately $25 USD. You will usually receive your e-visa about 3 business days after submitting your application and payment.

You can see what countries are eligible to apply for a Vietnam e-visa here.

It’s best to apply for your Vietnam e-visa 90 days or less before your Vietnam arrival date. If you try to apply sooner, you may not be able to submit your application. If you apply 2 – 4 weeks before your trip, you will usually have plenty of time to fill out the application, make payment, and receive the e-visa.

How do I get an e-visa for Vietnam?

To apply for your visa, go to https://evisa.xuatnhapcanh.gov.vn/web/guest/trang-chu-ttdt.

*NOTE: Above is the only official government e-visa portal for Vietnam. There are many other websites out there that offer e-visa services at double the price or more. We do not vouch for the legitimacy or service of these 3rd party websites.

To get started, click on the link above and read the instructions.

Once you’ve done this, it’s time to start your application. Fill out all of the fields as prompted with your personal and travel information. Make sure all fields are filled in correctly.

Finally, you’ll need to confirm your application, agree to the service terms, and pay.

Once your visa application and payment have been processed, you will receive an email updating you on your application status. If your visa is approved, you will receive instructions about how to download your e-visa. It usually takes about 3 business days to receive e-visa approval.

Your e-visa will be a single entry and valid for 30 days.

If your visa is denied, you may not receive any explanation as to why it was denied. The most common reasons for visa denial are typos in the data you entered in the application or an unclear/illegible picture of your passport. There are no refunds for denied visas and you can usually apply again if denied.

IMPORTANT: You must print a paper copy of your e-visa to bring with you upon your arrival in Vietnam.

Vietnam e-visa: Step-by-step instructions

Below are step-by-step instructions with pictures for getting your Vietnam e-visa.

Step #1: Getting started

Go to: https://evisa.xuatnhapcanh.gov.vn/web/guest/trang-chu-ttdt. Click “For Foreigners”.

Step #2: Read the instructions

Carefully read through the instructions and steps. Check the box at the bottom of the page and click “Next”.

Step #3: Enter your information

Upload your passport photo and data page. Take note of your name as it appears at the bottom of the data page of your passport.

Next, enter your personal information as it appears in your passport in the fields with a red asterisk* next to them. Enter your name as instructed in steps #2 and #3. If you’re on a Globe Drifters tour, we will email you the details of your hotel. Most of you will have an ordinary passport and your purpose of entry should be tourism.

NOTE: Pay close attention to the date format. It is DD/MM/YYYY. Also, the Hanoi airport’s name is “Noi Bai”.

Finally, enter all the information in the fields with a red asterisk.* For your e-visa validity, refer to your flight itinerary. Don’t forget to check the box at the end of the application! Check to make sure you entered all the required information correctly and click “Review application form”.

A pop-up window will appear. Take note of your registration code somewhere. Click “OK”.

You will also get an email confirming receipt of your information and containing your registration code. If you don’t see it in your inbox, try your spam folder. Now, you’ll need to pay for your visa.

Step #4: Make payment

Click the “Payment” button.

You’ll be directed to a page with a summary of your information. Make sure everything is correct. Click “Pay e-visa fee”.

Select “Pay by Visa/Mastercard/JCB/Amex”. Click on the type of card you have. NOTE: ATM card is mostly for locals. It will not be an available option for many of you.

Read through the disclaimer and click “I agree”.

Enter your card details and click “Continue”.

You’ll get a message similar to the one below and/or an email saying that you’ve paid.

Step #5: Receive your Vietnam e-visa

After about 3 business days, you will usually receive an email notifying you that you’re approved for the Vietnam e-visa. You’ll also receive instructions on how to download it. Once you’ve downloaded it, be sure to print a copy and bring it with you for your arrival in Vietnam!

We know everything related to visas can be stressful and frustrating. However, getting a Vietnam e-visa Vietnam is pretty easy and straightforward. Just read the instructions carefully and follow the prompts. Happy travels!