Plan your Vietnam adventure with our guide clarifying that Visa on Arrival is no longer available! Learn about the e-visa process, requirements, costs for exploring cultural sites, eco-friendly Vietnam Tours, and top providers for a seamless experience with Vietnam Travel. Start your journey today!
Immerse in Vietnam’s natural heritage with e-visa preparationAuthor Bio: Written 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, travel.state.gov, evisa.gov.vn, 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 for Vietnam was discontinued in 2022. All travelers must now apply for an e-visa online through the official Vietnam Immigration Department portal or other visa types via embassies. This guide clarifies the transition to e-visas, outlines the application process, and provides tips for a seamless journey with eco-friendly Vietnam Tours.
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. With the discontinuation of the Visa on Arrival program, mastering the e-visa application process is essential for a smooth entry and a hassle-free journey. The e-visa, available to all nationalities, offers a convenient online application for up to 90 days of stay, single or multiple entry evisa.gov.vn. This guide provides practical e-visa application tips, cultural insights, and eco-friendly Vietnam Travel options to prepare you for a seamless adventure.
Following Vietnam’s updated travel regulations, the country is accessible via international airports (e.g., Noi Bai in Hanoi, Tan Son Nhat in Ho Chi Minh City), land borders, or seaports. This guide blends e-visa requirements, application steps, and sustainable Vietnam Travel ideas for a worry-free experience.
The Visa on Arrival program is no longer available; all travelers must apply for an e-visa online, valid for up to 90 days (single or multiple entry), costing $25 (625,000 VND) for single entry or $50 (1,250,000 VND) for multiple entry. Passports must be valid for at least 6 months with two blank pages. Processing takes 3–7 working days, with expedited options available. Key cultural sites like Hoi An’s ancient town cost $5–$7 (125,000–175,000 VND); guided tours range from $15–$80 (375,000–2,000,000 VND). Visitors must register their temporary residence with local police, typically handled by hotels. Verify e-visa requirements and status via evisa.gov.vn or travel.state.gov.
The Visa on Arrival (VOA) program, previously available for air travelers with a pre-approval letter, was discontinued in 2022 due to Vietnam’s shift to a streamlined e-visa system. The e-visa offers greater convenience, eliminating the need for pre-approval letters, physical document submissions, or queuing at airport visa counters. All travelers must now apply for an e-visa online or use other visa types (e.g., embassy visas) vietnam-visa.com.
Eligibility: Available to all nationalities for tourism, business, or leisure purposes, valid for 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. Fees are non-refundable, even if the application is rejected vietnam-visa.com.
Processing Time: Typically 3–7 working days; expedited processing (1–2 days) available for additional fees ($10–$30 or 250,000–750,000 VND) through agencies vietnam-visa.com.
Entry/Exit Points: Valid at 13 international airports (e.g., Noi Bai, Tan Son Nhat, Da Nang), 16 land borders (e.g., Moc Bai, Lao Cai), and 13 seaports (e.g., Nha Trang, Da Nang). Entry points do not need to match the application, offering flexibility evisa.gov.vn.
Non-Extendable: E-visas cannot be extended; travelers must exit to a neighboring country (e.g., Cambodia, Thailand) and re-enter with a new e-visa (visa run) vietnam-visa.com.
Passport: Valid for at least 6 months from the intended entry date with two blank pages travel.state.gov.
Digital Documents:
Passport-size photo (4x6 cm, white background, no glasses, straight-facing) in .jpg format, max 2MB evisa.gov.vn.
Scan of passport data page (full and clear, including ICAO lines) in .jpg format, max 2MB evisa.gov.vn.
Payment: Credit or debit card (American Express not accepted) for online payment vietnam-visa.com.
Personal Information: Full name (as on passport), date of birth, nationality, intended entry/exit dates, entry/exit checkpoints, and temporary residential address in Vietnam (e.g., hotel address) evisa.gov.vn.
Restrictions: Applicants must not fall under suspension cases (e.g., security risks) as per Vietnam’s immigration laws evisa.gov.vn.
Access the Official Portal: Visit evisa.gov.vn, select English, and click “Apply now” evisa.gov.vn.
Read Terms: Review terms and conditions, then confirm to proceed evisa.gov.vn.
Complete Application Form: Enter personal details (name, date of birth, nationality), passport details (number, expiry date), travel details (entry/exit dates, checkpoints), and temporary address in Vietnam vietnam-visa.com.
Upload Documents: Upload digital passport photo and passport data page scan; ensure files meet size and format requirements evisa.gov.vn.
Make Payment: Pay the e-visa fee ($25 or $50) via credit/debit card; note the verification code provided after submission vietnam-visa.com.
Receive E-Visa: Check application status at evisa.gov.vn/e-visa/search using registration code, email, and date of birth. Download the e-visa PDF when granted and print it for entry evisa.gov.vn.
Present at Entry: Show printed e-visa and passport at the immigration checkpoint; ensure details match exactly to avoid entry denial travel.state.gov.
Apply Early: Submit 7–14 days before travel to avoid delays; processing may extend during peak seasons or holidays vietnam-visa.com.
Double-Check Details: Ensure all information (name, passport number, dates) matches the passport exactly to prevent rejection or entry issues travel.state.gov.
Save Verification Code: Record the code provided after submission; no email is sent for this code evisa.gov.vn.
Contact Support: For issues, email foreigners@immigration.gov.vn or call Hanoi (+84 24 3826 4026) or Ho Chi Minh City (+84 28 3920 0365) evisa.gov.vn.
Eco-Tip: Use digital e-visa copies to reduce paper waste; opt for eco-friendly transport like bicycles during travel vietnam.travel.
Cultural etiquette ensures a smooth experience during Vietnam Tours, complementing e-visa preparation. Here’s your guide, based on current norms:
Greetings: Offer a “xin chào” (hello) with a slight nod; use both hands for transactions to show respect, especially at temples or markets like Hanoi’s Old Quarter culturetrip.com.
Dress: Wear modest clothing covering shoulders and knees 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 quiet demeanor at cultural sites; ask permission before photographing locals or rituals; carry e-visa documents securely to avoid loss. Avoid public criticism of the Vietnamese government (penalties apply). A guest shared: “Respecting Vietnamese customs made our e-visa-prepared trip seamless.”
Customs: Tipping is not mandatory but appreciated ($0.20–$1 or 5,000–25,000 VND); avoid littering to preserve cultural sites like Ha Long Bay or Hoi An’s ancient town culturetrip.com.
Tip: Say “cảm ơn” (thank you) to locals or guides; use eco-friendly practices like reusable water bottles ($2 or 50,000 VND) to support sustainable Vietnam Travel; keep e-visa documents handy for checks. Tony Bùi notes: “In 20 years guiding, I’ve seen e-visa-prepared travellers 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 in tourist areas like Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh City, but translation apps are useful culturetrip.com.
Respect: Follow temple rules (avoid touching sacred items); 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 copy for checks 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, aligning with Vietnam’s green tourism goals.
Below is a curated list of tour options to enhance your e-visa-prepared journey, based on the latest data from vietnam-visa.com, travel.state.gov, evisa.gov.vn, 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; suitable for prepared travellers with valid e-visas; low to moderate difficulty vietnam.travel.
E-Visa Tips: Ensure a valid e-visa; carry a printed e-visa copy; register temporary residence at hotels; verify entry/exit points evisa.gov.vn.
Schedule: Daily; Hoi An ancient town open 8:00 AM–5:00 PM ($5–$7 or 125,000–175,000 VND); Hanoi’s Temple of Literature open 8:00 AM–5:00 PM ($1–$2 or 25,000–50,000 VND); Ha Long Bay cruises available daily.
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 to reduce emissions; avoid littering at cultural sites.
Tip: Apply for e-visas early; check evisa.gov.vn; a guest noted: “Self-guided exploration was smooth with a valid e-visa.”
Details: 1-day group tour visiting Hanoi’s Old Quarter and Temple of Literature; includes English-speaking guide, transport from Hanoi hotels, lunch, and entry fees; low difficulty.
E-Visa Tips: Ensure a valid e-visa; carry a printed e-visa copy; 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 noted: “Legend’s tour ensured e-visa compliance and cultural immersion.”
Details: 1-day guided tour visiting Hoi An’s ancient town and a cycling tour; includes English-speaking guide, transport from Hoi An, lunch, and entry fees; low to moderate difficulty.
E-Visa Tips: Ensure a valid e-visa; carry a printed e-visa copy; verify entry/exit points for multi-city travel 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 noted: “The combo tour was e-visa-ready and enriching.”
Details: 2–3 day tour combining Hanoi, Ha Long Bay, and Hoi An; includes English-speaking guide, transport, accommodation, meals, and entry fees; low to moderate difficulty.
E-Visa Tips: Ensure a multiple-entry e-visa for multi-city travel; carry a printed e-visa copy; 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 noted: “The multi-day tour was an e-visa-smart cultural journey.”
Self-Guided Exploration: Flexible and cost-effective, ideal for e-visa-prepared independent travellers.
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-prepared travel opportunities include:
Tet (Vietnamese Lunar New Year): Typically late January to February (lunar calendar), 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 (lunar calendar), honoring Vietnam’s founders; warm and dry (24–32°C); check dates at vietnam.travel.
Mid-Autumn Festival: Typically September (lunar calendar), 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 cultural visits and festivals. 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. Morning visits (6:00 AM–10:00 AM) avoid heat or rain. Verify forecasts via weather.com.
Application Steps:
Access evisa.gov.vn; select English and “Apply now.”
Complete the form with accurate personal and passport details; upload required documents.
Pay the fee ($25 or $50) via credit/debit card; save the verification code.
Check status and download the e-visa; print the PDF for entry evisa.gov.vn.
Documentation: Ensure passport validity (6+ months); carry a digital or printed e-visa copy; keep a photocopy of passport bio page separately travel.state.gov.
Residence Registration: Confirm hotels register your stay with local police; 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: Apply 7–14 days early to avoid delays; double-check details to match passport; carry small VND notes for local purchases; check e-visa status at evisa.gov.vn.
Pack for a comfortable, sustainable visit:
Documents: Passport (valid 6+ months), printed e-visa copy ($25–$50 or 625,000–1,250,000 VND), 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, and transport, and $0.20–$10 for purchases or add-ons.
E-Visa Tips: Apply 7–14 days early; double-check details to match passport; print e-visa letter; check status at evisa.gov.vn evisa.gov.vn.
Etiquette: Use “xin chào”; dress modestly for temples; respect 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: 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).
Is Visa on Arrival available for Vietnam? No, it was discontinued in 2022; all travelers must apply for an e-visa online or other visa types via embassies vietnam-visa.com.
How do I apply for a Vietnam e-visa? Apply online at evisa.gov.vn; submit passport scan, photo, and payment; processing takes 3–7 days evisa.gov.vn.
What documents are needed for an e-visa? Passport valid for 6 months, digital passport photo (4x6 cm, white background), scan of passport data page, credit/debit card vietnam-visa.com.
Can I extend my e-visa? No; exit to a neighboring country (e.g., Cambodia) and re-enter with a new e-visa (visa run) vietnam-visa.com.
What happens if my e-visa is rejected? Contact the Vietnamese Immigration Department (foreigners@immigration.gov.vn) or embassy for clarification; reapply with corrected details evisa.gov.vn.
Are eco-friendly tours available? Yes, group tours with fuel-efficient transport or bicycles; check localvietnam.com.
Enhance your e-visa-prepared 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.
With the Vietnam Visa on Arrival discontinued since 2022, mastering the Vietnam E-Visa Application 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. Whether choosing a self-guided or guided experience with Vietnam Travel, apply for e-visas early and respect local customs for the best experience. Verify details via evisa.gov.vn or travel.state.gov. Safe travels!
Sources:
vietnam-visa.com
travel.state.gov
evisa.gov.vn
vinpearl.com
vietnam.travel
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