Plan your Vietnam trip with our guide to required visa documents for international travelers! Learn about essential paperwork, visa processes, cultural tips, eco-friendly Vietnam Tours, and top providers for a seamless experience with Vietnam Travel. Start your journey today!
Immerse in Vietnam’s cultural heritage with document-smart travelWritten 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 as of September 17, 2025; 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 prepare specific documents for visa exemptions (if eligible), e-visas via evisa.gov.vn, or embassy visas to ensure smooth entry into Vietnam. This guide details the documents needed for various visa types, application processes, and travel tips for a seamless journey.
Vietnam, a vibrant Southeast Asian destination, is renowned for its cultural landmarks like Hoi An’s ancient town, Ha Long Bay’s limestone karsts, and bustling cities like Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City vinpearl.com. Preparing the correct visa documents ensures a smooth entry process, whether joining guided Vietnam Tours or traveling independently. Required documents vary by visa type—exemptions, e-visas, or embassy visas—but typically include a valid passport, photos, and additional paperwork for work or study visas vietnam-visa.com. This guide provides practical insights on required documents, cultural tips, and eco-friendly Vietnam Travel options for international travelers.
Following Vietnam’s updated travel regulations, the country is accessible via 13 international airports, 16 land borders, and 13 seaports. This guide blends document requirements, visa processes, and sustainable Vietnam Travel ideas for a worry-free adventure.
Travelers must provide a passport valid for 6+ months with two blank pages for all visa types. Visa-exempt travelers (25 countries) can enter for 14–45 days, while e-visas cost $25–$50 (625,000–1,250,000 VND), and embassy visas cost $25–$100. 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 document and visa requirements via evisa.gov.vn or travel.state.gov.
Standard Visa Exemption:
Purpose: Tourism, business, or leisure for short stays.
Eligibility: Citizens of 25 countries, including ASEAN nations (e.g., Cambodia, Thailand, Malaysia), UK, Japan, South Korea, Germany, France, and others vietnam-visa.com.
Duration: Up to 45 days (e.g., UK, Germany, Japan), 30 days (e.g., ASEAN countries), or 14 days (e.g., Brunei, Myanmar) vietnam-visa.com.
Cost: No cost vietnam-visa.com.
Documents Needed:
Passport valid for 6+ months from entry with two blank pages vietnam.travel.
Proof of onward travel (e.g., return flight or bus ticket, recommended but not mandatory) vietnam.travel.
Extension: Non-extendable; requires exit and re-entry with a new exemption or e-visa vietnam-visa.com.
E-Visa:
Purpose: Tourism, business, or leisure for stays up to 90 days.
Eligibility: Available to citizens of 80 countries, including the US, Canada, Australia, India, 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.
Documents Needed:
Passport valid for 6+ months from entry with two blank pages evisa.gov.vn.
Digital passport photo (4x6 cm, white background, no glasses, straight view, .jpg, max 2MB) evisa.gov.vn.
Digital scan of passport data page (.jpg, max 2MB) evisa.gov.vn.
Credit/debit card for payment (American Express not accepted) vietnam-visa.com.
Temporary address in Vietnam (e.g., hotel address) 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 point), and temporary address in Vietnam vietnam-visa.com.
Upload digital passport photo and passport data page scan evisa.gov.vn.
Pay the fee ($25 or $50) via credit/debit card; 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 entry point; ensure details match exactly to avoid 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 vietnam-visa.com.
Phu Quoc Visa Exemption:
Purpose: Tourism on Phu Quoc Island.
Eligibility: All nationalities arriving directly by air to Phu Quoc International Airport and not traveling to mainland Vietnam vietnam.travel.
Duration: Up to 30 days vietnam.travel.
Cost: No cost vietnam.travel.
Documents Needed:
Passport valid for 6+ months from entry with two blank pages vietnam.travel.
Proof of onward travel (e.g., return flight ticket from Phu Quoc to a country outside Vietnam, mandatory) vietnam.travel.
Extension: Non-extendable; requires e-visa for mainland travel vietnam-visa.com.
5-Year Visa Exemption Certificate:
Purpose: Tourism, family visits, or business for overseas Vietnamese and their families.
Eligibility: Travelers of Vietnamese origin, their spouses, or children vietnam-visa.com.
Duration: Up to 180 days per visit, valid for 5 years or 6 months before passport expiration vietnam-visa.com.
Cost: $10–$50 (250,000–1,250,000 VND) vietnam-visa.com.
Documents Needed:
Passport valid for 6+ months with two blank pages vietnam-visa.com.
Two passport photos (4x6 cm, white background, no glasses, straight view) vietnam-visa.com.
Proof of Vietnamese origin or family ties (e.g., birth certificate, marriage certificate) vietnam-visa.com.
Application form from Vietnamese embassy or immigration office vietnam-visa.com.
Extension: Extendable for additional 180-day periods; fees apply ($10 or 250,000 VND) vietnam-visa.com.
Embassy/Consulate Visa:
Purpose: Tourism, business, work, or study for those preferring traditional applications or needing longer stays.
Eligibility: Available to all nationalities travel.state.gov.
Duration: Typically 30–90 days (single or multiple entry); longer for work/study visas travel.state.gov.
Cost: $25–$100 (625,000–2,500,000 VND), depending on visa type and processing time travel.state.gov.
Documents Needed:
Passport valid for 6+ months with two blank pages travel.state.gov.
Two passport photos (4x6 cm, white background, no glasses, straight view; some embassies accept 3.5x4.5 cm or 2x2 inches) travel.state.gov.
Completed visa application form (available from embassy) travel.state.gov.
Sponsorship letter (for work, study, or business visas) from a Vietnamese entity vietnam-visa.com.
Work permit approval (for work visas) from DOLISA or acceptance letter (for study visas) from a university vietnam-visa.com.
Proof of onward travel (recommended for tourism visas) travel.state.gov.
Extension: Extendable for 1–3 months with a sponsor; fees vary ($10–$155 or 250,000–3,875,000 VND) vietnam-visa.com.
Key Restrictions:
Incomplete or incorrect documents may lead to visa application rejection evisa.gov.vn.
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. Ensure all required documents are complete to avoid delays; use exemptions or e-visas where applicable vietnam-visa.com.
Cultural etiquette ensures a smooth visa application 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 to show respect, especially at cultural sites culturetrip.com.
Dress: Wear modest clothing covering shoulders and knees, especially for temple visits (e.g., Temple of Literature in Hanoi); a lightweight scarf ($1 or 25,000 VND) aligns with local norms vinpearl.com.
Behaviour: Maintain a calm demeanor at immigration counters or embassy visits; ask permission before photographing locals or rituals; carry all visa documents (passport, e-visa, photos) securely. Avoid public criticism of the Vietnamese government (penalties apply). A guest shared: “Having all visa documents ready made my Vietnam trip seamless.” 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 visa documents organized for checks. Tony Bùi notes: “In 20 years guiding, I’ve seen travelers with complete visa documents thrive in Vietnam’s vibrant culture.”
General Tips:
Language: Carry a phrase card ($1 or 25,000 VND) for Vietnamese basics like “cảm ơn”; English is widely spoken at entry points and tourist areas culturetrip.com.
Respect: Follow immigration rules (no photography in immigration areas); respect local vendors with fair purchases in markets.
Navigation: Use offline maps (Maps.me) for cities like Hanoi or Hoi An; 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) to reduce emissions vietnam.travel.
Below is a curated list of tour options to enhance your journey with proper visa documents, 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 with complete visa documents; suitable for travelers with visa exemptions or e-visas; low to moderate difficulty vietnam.travel.
Visa Tips: Ensure passport (6+ months validity, two blank pages), visa photos (4x6 cm for embassy visas), and e-visa or proof of onward travel; 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 (25,00 System: I apologize for the interruption. It seems the response was cut off. Let me complete the guide for "Vietnam Visa Documents Needed" in the same format, ensuring all sections are fully addressed. Below is the complete artifact, incorporating the previous content and finishing the remaining sections.
Self-Guided Exploration: Flexible and cost-effective, ideal for travelers with complete visa documents and exemptions or e-visas.
Group Cultural Tours: Affordable and guided, perfect for visa document-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 visa document-smart itineraries.
Eco-Friendly Note: Group and multi-day tours use fuel-efficient transport or bicycles, supporting Vietnam’s green tourism goals.
Key visa document 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 travelers with complete visa documents, offering comfortable weather for cultural visits. Hot period (April–August, 24–33°C) suits early morning outings. Wet season (September–December, 24–31°C) is best for budget travelers and indoor experiences; expect rain but fewer crowds. Morning visits (6:00 AM–10:00 AM) avoid heat or rain. Verify forecasts via weather.com.
Document Preparation: Ensure passport is valid for 6+ months with two blank pages; obtain visa photos (4x6 cm, white background, no glasses, $1–$5 or 25,000–125,000 VND); prepare proof of onward travel for exemptions or Phu Quoc; secure sponsorship letters for work/study visas vietnam-visa.com.
Visa Tips: Check eligibility for visa exemptions (25 countries) or apply for e-visas at evisa.gov.vn; use embassy visas for non-exempt nationalities; Phu Quoc exemption for island-only visits; double-check details to match passport vietnam-visa.com.
Documentation: Carry a valid passport, printed e-visa (if required), passport photocopy, and visa photos for embassy applications; keep a photocopy of passport bio page separately; provide proof of onward travel for Phu Quoc or exemptions 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 for sustainable travel.
Tip: Prepare visa documents 1–2 weeks before applying; apply for e-visas 7–14 days early; carry small VND notes for local purchases; check 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 with two blank pages), printed e-visa ($25–$50 or 625,000–1,250,000 VND if required), passport photocopy, two visa photos (4x6 cm for embassy visas, $1–$5 or 25,000–125,000 VND), proof of onward travel (e.g., return flight ticket for Phu Quoc or exemptions), sponsorship letter (for work/study visas), 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 Document 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.
Exemption Costs: No cost for standard exemptions (14–45 days) or Phu Quoc (30 days); 5-year exemption: $10–$50 (250,000–1,250,000 VND) vietnam-visa.com.
Embassy Visa Costs: $25–$100 (625,000–2,500,000 VND), depending on visa type and processing time travel.state.gov.
Document Costs: Visa photos: $1–$5 (25,000–125,000 VND); sponsorship letter or work/study documents may incur additional fees ($0–$50 or 0–1,250,000 VND, often covered by sponsor) vietnam-visa.com.
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, visa costs, and document preparation; $0.20–$10 for purchases or add-ons; use visa exemptions to save on costs.
Document Tips: Prepare passport (6+ months validity, two blank pages), visa photos (4x6 cm, $1–$5 or 25,000–125,000 VND), and proof of onward travel 1–2 weeks before applying; secure sponsorship letters for work/study visas 4–6 weeks in advance vietnam-visa.com.
Visa Tips: Check eligibility for visa exemptions (25 countries) or apply for e-visas at evisa.gov.vn; use embassy visas for non-exempt nationalities; Phu Quoc exemption for island-only visits; double-check details to match passport vietnam-visa.com.
Etiquette: Use “xin chào”; dress modestly for temples; respect immigration and local customs; avoid littering at cultural sites.
Access: Choose self-guided exploration for flexibility, group tours for visa document-compliant insights, or multi-day tours for immersion.
Schedules: Cultural sites open 8:00 AM–5:00 PM; markets open 6:00 AM–6:00 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 cities like Hanoi or Hoi An.
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).
What documents are needed for a Vietnam visa? Passport (6+ months validity, two blank pages), visa photos (4x6 cm for embassy visas), e-visa or proof of onward travel for exemptions; sponsorship letters for work/study visas vietnam-visa.com.
Do I need visa photos for exemptions? No, exemptions (e.g., 25 countries, Phu Quoc) do not require photos vietnam-visa.com.
What happens if my documents are incomplete? Visa application may be rejected; ensure all documents are complete to avoid delays evisa.gov.vn.
Where can I get visa photos? Professional studios ($1–$5 or 25,000–125,000 VND) or digital apps ($0–$2 or 0–50,000 VND) vietnam-visa.com.
What documents are needed for work/study visas? Passport, photos, sponsorship letter, work permit (DOLISA) or university acceptance vietnam-visa.com.
Is Visa on Arrival available? No, discontinued in 2022; use exemptions or e-visas vietnam-visa.com.
Enhance your visa document 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 Visa Documents Needed with cultural etiquette—modest attire, polite greetings like “xin chào,” and document-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, prepare all required documents (passport, photos, e-visa) early, apply for e-visas via evisa.gov.vn, 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
Favorite experiences booked by travelers
