Plan your Vietnam entry with our guide to e-visa entry ports! Learn about airports, land borders, seaports, visa requirements, eco-friendly Vietnam Tours, and top providers for a seamless experience with Vietnam Travel. Start your journey today!
Photograph the festive spirit of Vietnam’s culture after entryWritten by Tony Bùi, with over 20 years of experience in the travel industry, personally guiding and organizing tours for over 100,000 travellers across Southeast Asia. This guide draws from firsthand insights, guest feedback from Legend Travel Group surveys, and official sources like vietnam-visa.com, evisa.gov.vn, travel.state.gov, vinpearl.com, and vietnam.travel. Information based on the latest data; verify before travel. Reflects Vietnam’s updated travel regulations.
Travelers, please note: The Visa on Arrival (VOA) program was discontinued in 2022. International travelers must use e-visas via evisa.gov.vn, visa exemptions (if eligible), or embassy visas to enter Vietnam through designated entry ports. This guide details e-visa entry ports (airports, land borders, and seaports), visa requirements, and travel tips for a seamless journey into Vietnam.
Vietnam, a stunning Southeast Asian destination, is celebrated for its cultural treasures like Hanoi’s Temple of Literature, Hoi An’s ancient town, and Ha Long Bay’s emerald waters vinpearl.com. Understanding Vietnam’s e-visa entry ports ensures smooth entry for travelers from over 80 countries, whether joining guided Vietnam Tours or traveling independently. E-visas are accepted at 13 international airports, 16 land borders, and 13 seaports, offering flexibility for arrivals by air, land, or sea evisa.gov.vn. This guide provides practical insights into e-visa entry ports, application processes, cultural etiquette, and eco-friendly Vietnam Travel options for international travelers.
Following Vietnam’s updated travel regulations, the country is accessible via multiple entry points, including major hubs like Noi Bai (Hanoi), Tan Son Nhat (Ho Chi Minh City), and Moc Bai (land border with Cambodia). This guide blends e-visa entry port details, visa requirements, and sustainable Vietnam Travel ideas for a worry-free adventure.
E-visas are valid for citizens of 80 countries, costing $25–$50 (625,000–1,250,000 VND) for up to 90 days, and are accepted at 13 airports, 16 land borders, and 13 seaports. Passports must be valid for at least 6 months with two blank pages. Cultural site entries like Hoi An cost $5–$7 (125,000–175,000 VND); guided tours range from $15–$80 (375,000–2,000,000 VND). Temporary residence registration with local police is required within 24 hours, typically handled by hotels or hosts. Verify e-visa requirements and entry port details via evisa.gov.vn or travel.state.gov.
Purpose: Tourism, business, or leisure for stays up to 90 days.
Eligibility: Citizens of 80 countries, including the US, Canada, Australia, India, UK, Germany, and most EU nations evisa.gov.vn.
Duration: Up to 90 days (single or multiple entry) evisa.gov.vn.
Cost: $25 (625,000 VND) for single entry; $50 (1,250,000 VND) for multiple entry; non-refundable vietnam-visa.com.
Application Process:
Visit evisa.gov.vn, select English, and click “Apply now” evisa.gov.vn.
Review terms and conditions, then confirm to proceed evisa.gov.vn.
Enter personal details (full name, date of birth, nationality), passport details (number, issue/expiry date), travel details (intended entry/exit dates, entry/exit port like Noi Bai or Moc Bai), and temporary address in Vietnam (e.g., hotel address) vietnam-visa.com.
Upload a digital passport photo (4x6 cm, white background, no glasses, straight view) and a scan of the passport data page in .jpg format, max 2MB evisa.gov.vn.
Pay the fee ($25 or $50) via credit/debit card (American Express not accepted); note the verification code vietnam-visa.com.
Check status at evisa.gov.vn/e-visa/search using registration code, email, and date of birth; download and print the e-visa PDF evisa.gov.vn.
Present printed e-visa and passport at the chosen entry port; ensure details match exactly to avoid entry issues travel.state.gov.
Processing Time: 3–7 working days; expedited processing (1–2 days) available through agencies for additional fees ($10–$30 or 250,000–750,000 VND) vietnam-visa.com.
Extension: Non-extendable; requires exit and re-entry with a new e-visa (visa run) vietnam-visa.com.
Key Restrictions:
Travelers must not fall under suspension categories (e.g., security risks) as per Vietnam’s immigration laws evisa.gov.vn.
Temporary residence registration is mandatory within 24 hours, typically handled by hotels or hosts travel.state.gov.
Overstay penalties: 500,000 VND/day ($20/day); potential exit bans or deportation travel.state.gov.
Important Note: The Visa on Arrival program was discontinued in 2022. E-visas are the primary option for non-exempt nationalities entering through designated ports vietnam-visa.com.
International Airports (13):
Noi Bai (Hanoi): Major hub, 24/7 immigration, busiest northern entry point vietnam.travel.
Tan Son Nhat (Ho Chi Minh City): Largest airport, 24/7 immigration, key southern entry vietnam.travel.
Da Nang: Central hub, 24/7 immigration, ideal for Hoi An or Hue visits vinpearl.com.
Cam Ranh (Nha Trang), Can Tho, Cat Bi (Hai Phong), Lien Khuong (Da Lat), Phu Bai (Hue), Phu Quoc, Tho Xuan (Thanh Hoa), Van Don (Ha Long), Vinh, Dong Hoi: Regional airports, open 24/7, less crowded vietnam.travel.
Land Borders (16):
Moc Bai (Tay Ninh, near Cambodia’s Bavet): Popular for Cambodian travelers, open 7:00 AM–7:00 PM vietnam.travel.
Lao Cai (near China’s Hekou): Key for Chinese travelers, open 7:00 AM–7:00 PM vietnam.travel.
Mong Cai (near China’s Dongxing): Northern border, open 7:00 AM–7:00 PM vietnam.travel.
Huu Nghi (near China’s Youyiguan), Cha Lo, Cau Treo, Nam Can, Lao Bao, Tinh Bien, Song Tien, Xa Mat, Ha Tien, Vinh Xuong, Bo Y, Le Thanh, Dinh Ba: Regional borders, open 7:00 AM–7:00 PM, expect queues during peak seasons vietnam.travel.
Seaports (13):
Nha Trang: Popular for cruise travelers, open for ship arrivals vietnam.travel.
Da Nang: Key central port, ideal for Hoi An visits vinpearl.com.
Hai Phong, Ho Chi Minh City, Quy Nhon, Vung Tau, Chan May, Duong Dong (Phu Quoc), Hon Gai, Dung Quat, Cam Pha, Vung Ang, Nghi Son: Cruise and cargo ports, open for ship schedules vietnam.travel.
Requirements at Entry Ports: Present a valid passport and printed e-visa; ensure details match exactly; carry proof of onward travel (recommended for some borders); expect immigration checks and potential queues at busy ports like Moc Bai or Noi Bai evisa.gov.vn.
Cultural etiquette ensures a smooth entry and travel experience during Vietnam Tours. Here’s your guide, based on current norms:
Greetings: Offer a “xin chào” (hello) with a slight nod to immigration officers or locals; use both hands for transactions at entry ports or markets culturetrip.com.
Dress: Wear modest clothing covering shoulders and knees, especially for temple visits after entry (e.g., Temple of Literature in Hanoi); carry a lightweight scarf ($1 or 25,000 VND) vinpearl.com.
Behaviour: Maintain a calm demeanor at entry ports; avoid loud behavior or disputes; ask permission before photographing locals or rituals; carry passport or e-visa securely to verify status. Avoid public criticism of the Vietnamese government (penalties apply). A guest shared: “Respecting Vietnamese customs eased our entry at Noi Bai and enriched our trip.” culturetrip.com
Customs: Tipping is not mandatory but appreciated ($0.20–$1 or 5,000–25,000 VND); avoid littering at cultural sites like Ha Long Bay or Hoi An; complete residence registration within 24 hours (handled by hotels) travel.state.gov.
Tip: Say “cảm ơn” (thank you) to officers or guides; use eco-friendly practices like reusable water bottles ($2 or 50,000 VND) to support sustainable Vietnam Travel; keep passport handy for checks. Tony Bùi notes: “In 20 years guiding, I’ve seen respectful travelers thrive at Vietnam’s entry ports and cultural sites.”
General Tips:
Language: Carry a phrase card ($1 or 25,000 VND) for Vietnamese basics like “cảm ơn”; English is widely spoken at major entry ports and tourist areas culturetrip.com.
Respect: Follow entry port rules (no photography in immigration areas); respect local vendors with fair purchases in markets.
Navigation: Use offline maps (Maps.me) for entry ports like Moc Bai or cities like Hanoi; carry a printed e-visa or passport photocopy travel.state.gov.
Eco-Tip: Opt for bicycles ($1–$3 or 25,000–75,000 VND/day) or motorbike taxis ($0.50–$2 or 12,500–50,000 VND) after entry to reduce emissions vietnam.travel.
Below is a curated list of tour options to enhance your journey after entering Vietnam via e-visa ports, based on the latest data from vietnam-visa.com, evisa.gov.vn, travel.state.gov, vinpearl.com, and vietnam.travel. Confirm schedules and prices before booking.
Details: Explore Hanoi’s Old Quarter, Hoi An’s ancient town, or Ha Long Bay independently after entering via Noi Bai, Tan Son Nhat, or Moc Bai; suitable for travelers with valid e-visas; low to moderate difficulty vietnam.travel.
e-Visa Tips: Apply for e-visas ($25–$50) at evisa.gov.vn; carry a printed e-visa or passport photocopy; register temporary residence at hotels evisa.gov.vn.
Schedule: Daily; Hoi An ancient town open 8:00 AM–5:00 PM ($5–$7 or 125,000–175,000 VND); Temple of Literature open 8:00 AM–5:00 PM ($1–$2 or 25,000–50,000 VND); Ha Long Bay accessible anytime.
Cost: Entry: free (markets); Hoi An: $5–$7 (125,000–175,000 VND); Temple of Literature: $1–$2 (25,000–50,000 VND); transport (bicycle: $1–$3 or 25,000–75,000 VND/day; motorbike taxi: $0.50–$2 or 12,500–50,000 VND); local purchases: $0.20–$10 (5,000–250,000 VND).
Location: Hanoi, Hoi An, Ha Long Bay, Vietnam.
Eco-Friendly Note: Use bicycles or walk to reduce emissions; avoid littering at cultural sites.
Tip: Apply for e-visas 7–14 days early; check evisa.gov.vn; a guest from the US noted: “Self-guided exploration was seamless after entering via Tan Son Nhat.”
Details: 1-day group tour visiting Hanoi’s Old Quarter and Temple of Literature after entering via Noi Bai; includes English-speaking guide, transport from Hanoi hotels, lunch, and entry fees; low difficulty.
e-Visa Tips: Carry a printed e-visa or passport photocopy; guides assist with residence registration travel.state.gov.
Schedule: Daily; departs 7:00 AM from Hanoi hotels; returns by 4:00 PM.
Cost: $25–$40/person (625,000–1,000,000 VND, includes transport and entry).
Pick-up/Drop-off: Hotels in Hanoi.
Eco-Friendly Note: Group transport with fuel-efficient vehicles minimizes impact; supports local communities.
Tip: Book via legendtravelgroup.com; a guest from Australia noted: “Legend’s tour ensured e-visa compliance and cultural immersion after Noi Bai.”
Details: 1-day guided tour visiting Hoi An’s ancient town and a cycling tour after entering via Da Nang or Moc Bai; includes English-speaking guide, transport from Hoi An, lunch, and entry fees; low to moderate difficulty.
e-Visa Tips: Use a multiple-entry e-visa for multi-city travel; carry a printed e-visa or passport photocopy; confirm eligibility vietnam-visa.com.
Schedule: Daily; departs 6:30 AM from Hoi An hotels; returns by 4:00 PM.
Cost: $30–$50/person (750,000–1,250,000 VND, includes entry).
Pick-up/Drop-off: Hotels in Hoi An.
Eco-Friendly Note: Small groups and cycling reduce environmental impact; supports local communities.
Tip: Book via localvietnam.com; a guest from India noted: “The combo tour was e-visa-ready and enriching after Da Nang.”
Details: 2–3 day tour combining Hanoi, Ha Long Bay, and Hoi An after entering via Noi Bai, Tan Son Nhat, or Moc Bai; includes English-speaking guide, transport, accommodation, meals, and entry fees; low to moderate difficulty.
e-Visa Tips: Use a multiple-entry e-visa for multi-city travel; carry a printed e-visa or passport photocopy; confirm temporary residence registration travel.state.gov.
Schedule: Daily; departs from Hanoi hotels; returns after 2–3 days.
Cost: $80–$200/person (2,000,000–5,000,000 VND, includes entries).
Pick-up/Drop-off: Hotels or custom locations in Hanoi.
Eco-Friendly Note: Uses eco-lodges and fuel-efficient transport; supports local communities.
Tip: Book Vietnam Tours via legendtravelgroup.com or WhatsApp (+84 825862222); a guest from Germany noted: “The multi-day tour was an e-visa-smart cultural journey.”
Self-Guided Exploration: Flexible and cost-effective, ideal for travelers with e-visas entering via major ports.
Group Cultural Tours: Affordable and guided, perfect for e-visa-compliant cultural insights.
Combo Cultural and Adventure Tours: Blend cultural visits with eco-friendly activities for a comprehensive journey.
Multi-Day Cultural and Adventure Tours: Offer in-depth exploration with e-visa-smart itineraries.
Eco-Friendly Note: Group and multi-day tours use fuel-efficient transport or bicycles, supporting Vietnam’s green tourism goals.
Key e-visa entry travel opportunities include:
Tet (Vietnamese Lunar New Year): Typically late January to February, vibrant with temple ceremonies and family traditions; warm and dry (18–28°C); check dates at vietnam.travel.
Hung Kings Festival: Typically March to April, honoring Vietnam’s founders; warm and dry (24–32°C); check dates at vietnam.travel.
Mid-Autumn Festival: Typically September, festive with lantern parades; warm and wet (24–31°C); check dates at vietnam.travel.
Cultural Site Visits: Dry season (January–August) for comfortable weather; February for optimal conditions vinpearl.com.
Dry season (January–August, 18–33°C) is ideal for e-visa entries and cultural visits. Hot period (April–August, 24–33°C) suits early morning entries at airports or land borders. Wet season (September–December, 24–31°C) is best for budget travelers and indoor experiences; expect rain at land borders like Moc Bai. Morning entries (7:00 AM–11:00 AM) avoid crowds and heat. Verify forecasts via weather.com.
Verify e-Visa Needs: Apply for e-visas at evisa.gov.vn for 80 eligible nationalities; select correct entry port (e.g., Noi Bai, Moc Bai); check eligibility for exemptions (25 countries) for non-e-visa entries vietnam-visa.com.
Entry Port Tips: Choose major airports like Noi Bai or Tan Son Nhat for 24/7 immigration; select land borders like Moc Bai or Lao Cai for smoother crossings; arrive early (7:00 AM) to avoid queues; carry printed e-visa and passport vietnam.travel.
Documentation: Ensure passport validity (6+ months); carry a digital or printed e-visa copy or passport photocopy; keep a photocopy of passport bio page separately; provide proof of onward travel (recommended) travel.state.gov.
Residence Registration: Confirm hotels or hosts register your stay with local police within 24 hours; carry proof of registration travel.state.gov.
Eco-Tip: Use digital e-visa copies to reduce paper waste; opt for bicycles or motorbike taxis after entry for sustainable travel.
Tip: Apply for e-visas 7–14 days early; double-check details to match passport; carry small VND notes for local purchases; check e-visa status at evisa.gov.vn. For embassy visas, contact the nearest Vietnamese embassy (e.g., Bangkok: +66 2 251 5836, Beijing: +86 10 6532 1155).
Pack for a comfortable, sustainable visit:
Documents: Passport (valid 6+ months), printed e-visa ($25–$50 or 625,000–1,250,000 VND), passport photocopy, proof of onward travel (e.g., return flight or bus ticket, recommended), wallet ($2 or 50,000 VND), tour bookings.
Clothing: Modest clothing covering shoulders and knees for temple visits; lightweight scarf ($1 or 25,000 VND); quick-dry clothing and raincoat ($2 or 50,000 VND) for wet season; lightweight clothing like cotton or linen and light jacket ($3 or 75,000 VND) for dry season; waterproof shoes ($3 or 75,000 VND); hat ($2 or 50,000 VND).
Essentials: Reusable water bottle ($2 or 50,000 VND); snacks ($0.20–$1 or 5,000–25,000 VND, e.g., pho); small backpack ($2 or 50,000 VND); sunscreen ($1 or 25,000 VND); insect repellent ($1 or 25,000 VND).
Tech: Phone with translation apps (e.g., Google Translate); charger ($3–$5 or 75,000–125,000 VND); local SIM ($2–$3 or 50,000–75,000 VND); waterproof camera ($6 or 150,000 VND) for photos.
Eco Items: Reusable tote ($1 or 25,000 VND) for purchases; phrase card ($1 or 25,000 VND) with Vietnamese basics.
Extras: Small VND notes for donations or purchases; small first aid kit ($2 or 50,000 VND); umbrella ($2 or 50,000 VND) for wet season; money belt ($2 or 50,000 VND) for valuables. Tip: Pack light (1 small bag, max 5 kg); reusable items support sustainability.
Visa and Travel Costs
E-Visa Costs: Single entry: $25 (625,000 VND); multiple entry: $50 (1,250,000 VND); expedited processing: $10–$30 (250,000–750,000 VND) evisa.gov.vn.
Self-Guided Exploration: Entry: free (markets); Hoi An: $5–$7 (125,000–175,000 VND); Temple of Literature: $1–$2 (25,000–50,000 VND); transport (bicycle: $1–$3 or 25,000–75,000 VND/day; motorbike taxi: $0.50–$2 or 12,500–50,000 VND).
Group Cultural Tours: $25–$40 (625,000–1,000,000 VND, includes transport and entry).
Combo Cultural and Adventure Tours: $30–$50 (750,000–1,250,000 VND, includes entry).
Multi-Day Cultural and Adventure Tours: $80–$200 (2,000,000–5,000,000 VND, includes entries). Safety-Related Costs
Money Belt: $2 (50,000 VND).
Local SIM for Emergency Calls: $2–$3 (50,000–75,000 VND).
Travel Insurance (Recommended): $10–$30 (250,000–750,000 VND). Other Costs
Local Snacks (e.g., banh mi, pho): $0.20–$1 (5,000–25,000 VND).
Souvenirs (e.g., crafts, textiles): $0.20–$10 (5,000–250,000 VND).
Donations: $0.20–$1 (5,000–25,000 VND). Total Daily Cost (Per Person)
Budget: $15–$40 (self-guided, snacks, transport, entry).
Mid-range: $40–$70 (group tour, purchases).
Luxury: $70–$120 (private tour, premium souvenirs). Tip: Budget $15–$120 for tours, e-visa costs, and transport; $0.20–$10 for purchases or add-ons; use e-visas for cost-effective entry.
e-Visa Tips: Apply for e-visas at evisa.gov.vn for 80 eligible nationalities; select correct entry port (e.g., Noi Bai, Moc Bai); double-check details to match passport vietnam-visa.com.
Entry Port Tips: Choose major airports like Noi Bai or Tan Son Nhat for 24/7 immigration; select land borders like Moc Bai or Lao Cai for smoother crossings; arrive early (7:00 AM) to avoid queues; carry printed e-visa and passport vietnam.travel.
Etiquette: Use “xin chào” greeting at entry ports; dress modestly for temples; respect immigration and local customs; avoid littering at cultural sites.
Access: Choose self-guided exploration for flexibility, group tours for e-visa-compliant insights, or multi-day tours for immersion.
Schedules: Airports open 24/7; land borders open 7:00 AM–7:00 PM; seaports align with ship schedules; cultural sites open 8:00 AM–5:00 PM; peak crowds in dry season (January–August); book early for festivals.
Sustainability: Use bicycles or motorbike taxis; carry reusable items; support local vendors with fair purchases.
Navigation: Use offline maps (Maps.me) for entry ports or cities like Hanoi.
Weather: Dry season (Jan–Aug, 18–33°C) ideal; hot period (Apr–Aug, 24–33°C) suits early mornings; wet season (Sep–Dec, 24–31°C) requires rain gear; check forecasts via weather.com.
Safety Note: Secure valuables with a money belt ($2 or 50,000 VND); beware of pickpocketing in markets or nightlife areas; carry emergency numbers (Police: 113, Medical: 115, nearest embassy).
Which entry ports accept Vietnam e-visas? 13 airports (e.g., Noi Bai, Tan Son Nhat), 16 land borders (e.g., Moc Bai, Lao Cai), and 13 seaports (e.g., Nha Trang, Da Nang) evisa.gov.vn.
Who is eligible for Vietnam e-visas? Citizens of 80 countries, including the US, Canada, Australia, India, and most EU nations vietnam-visa.com.
How much does a Vietnam e-visa cost? $25 (single entry) or $50 (multiple entry); expedited processing $10–$30 vietnam-visa.com.
Can e-visas be extended? Non-extendable; requires exit and re-entry with a new e-visa vietnam-visa.com.
What are the penalties for overstaying? Fines of 500,000 VND/day ($20/day); potential exit bans or deportation travel.state.gov.
Is Visa on Arrival available? No, discontinued in 2022; use e-visas at evisa.gov.vn vietnam-visa.com.
Enhance your e-visa entry Vietnam journey with eco-conscious tours from Legend Travel Group:
Vietnam Cultural Eco-Tour ($25–$40/person, 1 day): Guided temple and market tour with sustainable practices.
Vietnam Cultural and Adventure Trail ($80–$150/person, 2 days): Explore cultural sites and eco-friendly activities.
Vietnam Explorer ($150–$250/person, 3 days): Multi-site adventure with eco-lodges and community-focused activities. Prices include guides, transport, and entry fees; group discounts available. Explore options at legendtravelgroup.com or contact sales@legendtravelgroup.com / WhatsApp (+84825862222) for your Vietnam Travel plans.
Mastering Vietnam e-Visa Entry Ports with cultural etiquette—modest attire, polite greetings like “xin chào,” and e-visa-smart planning—unlocks a vibrant, eco-friendly journey through this Southeast Asian gem. With tour costs from $15–$200, sustainable Vietnam Tours, and attractions like Hoi An and Ha Long Bay, this trip offers adventure and sustainability for international travelers. Whether choosing a self-guided or guided experience with Vietnam Travel, apply for e-visas early via evisa.gov.vn, select the correct entry port, and respect local customs for the best experience. Note that Visa on Arrival is no longer available; plan accordingly. Safe travels!
Sources:
vietnam-visa.com
evisa.gov.vn
travel.state.gov
vinpearl.com
vietnam.travel
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