Prepare your Vietnam e-visa documents with our guide for international travelers! Learn about required documents, application steps, cultural site visits, eco-friendly Vietnam Tours, and top providers for a seamless experience with Vietnam Travel. Start your journey today!
Start your e-visa-prepared journey with Vietnam’s vibrant glowWritten 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 prepare e-visa documents or obtain a visa through a Vietnamese embassy for entry. This guide details the required documents for Vietnam’s e-visa, application processes, and travel tips for a seamless journey into Vietnam by air, land, or sea.
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. Properly preparing e-visa documents ensures smooth entry for travelers from all countries, whether joining guided Vietnam Tours or traveling independently. The e-visa, available to citizens of 80 countries, allows stays of up to 90 days via 13 airports, 16 land borders, and 13 seaports evisa.gov.vn. This guide provides practical insights into e-visa document requirements, application steps, 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 Noi Bai Airport (Hanoi), Tan Son Nhat Airport (Ho Chi Minh City), and land borders like Moc Bai (Cambodia). This guide blends e-visa document preparation, travel tips, and sustainable Vietnam Travel ideas for a worry-free adventure.
The Vietnam e-visa requires specific documents: a passport valid for at least 6 months, a digital passport photo, and a passport data page scan. Costs are $25 (625,000 VND) for single entry or $50 (1,250,000 VND) for multiple entry. 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 procedures via evisa.gov.vn or travel.state.gov.
Purpose: Tourism, business, or leisure for stays up to 90 days.
Eligibility: Available to 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.
Entry/Exit Points: Valid at 13 airports (e.g., Noi Bai, Tan Son Nhat, Da Nang), 16 land borders (e.g., Moc Bai, Lao Cai, Mong Cai), and 13 seaports (e.g., Nha Trang, Da Nang) vietnam.travel.
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.
Passport:
Must be valid for at least 6 months from the intended entry date with two blank pages evisa.gov.vn.
Ensure the passport is not damaged (e.g., no torn pages or faded text) to avoid entry issues travel.state.gov.
Digital Passport Photo:
Size: 4x6 cm, white background, no glasses, straight view, taken within the last 6 months evisa.gov.vn.
Format: .jpg, max 2MB; high resolution, clear facial features vietnam-visa.com.
Tip: Take the photo at a professional studio ($1–$2 or 25,000–50,000 VND) or use a smartphone with good lighting; avoid selfies or filters vietnam-visa.com.
Passport Data Page Scan:
A clear, color scan of the passport’s bio page (containing name, passport number, issue/expiry dates, nationality) evisa.gov.vn.
Format: .jpg, max 2MB; ensure all details are legible vietnam-visa.com.
Tip: Use a scanner or high-quality phone camera; avoid shadows or blurriness vietnam-visa.com.
Additional Information:
Personal details: Full name, date of birth, nationality, gender evisa.gov.vn.
Travel details: Intended entry/exit dates, entry/exit checkpoint (e.g., Noi Bai, Moc Bai), temporary address in Vietnam (e.g., hotel or host address) vietnam-visa.com.
Payment method: Credit/debit card (American Express not accepted) for the $25 or $50 fee evisa.gov.vn.
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 checkpoint), and temporary address in Vietnam vietnam-visa.com.
Upload the digital passport photo (4x6 cm) and passport data page scan in .jpg format, max 2MB evisa.gov.vn.
Pay the fee ($25 for single entry, $50 for multiple entry) 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 the printed e-visa and passport at the immigration checkpoint; 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.
Tip: Apply 7–14 days early to avoid delays; double-check all entered details to match passport; save a digital copy of the e-visa on your phone evisa.gov.vn.
Discontinued Visa on Arrival: The VOA program ended in 2022; e-visas or embassy visas are required for non-exempt travelers vietnam-visa.com.
Accuracy: Ensure all documents and application details match the passport exactly; errors may lead to entry denial travel.state.gov.
Backup Copies: Carry a printed e-visa and a passport photocopy; store a digital copy on your phone or email vietnam-visa.com.
Residence Registration: Complete within 24 hours of arrival, typically handled by hotels or hosts; carry proof of registration travel.state.gov.
Cultural etiquette ensures a smooth experience during Vietnam Tours, complementing proper e-visa document preparation. 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 markets or cultural sites culturetrip.com.
Dress: Wear modest clothing covering shoulders and knees for temple visits (e.g., Temple of Literature in Hanoi, Hoi An’s ancient town); a lightweight scarf ($1 or 25,000 VND) aligns with local norms vinpearl.com.
Behaviour: Maintain a calm demeanor at immigration checkpoints and cultural sites; avoid loud behavior or disputes; ask permission before photographing locals or rituals; carry e-visa and passport securely to verify status. Avoid public criticism of the Vietnamese government (penalties apply). A guest shared: “Proper e-visa documents and respectful behavior made our 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 travel.state.gov.
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 and passport handy for checks. Tony Bùi notes: “In 20 years guiding, I’ve seen travelers with proper e-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 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, Hoi An, or border areas; 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, aligning with Vietnam’s green tourism goals vietnam.travel.
Below is a curated list of tour options to enhance your journey with properly prepared e-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 a valid e-visa; suitable for travelers with prepared documents; low to moderate difficulty vietnam.travel.
E-Visa Tips: Carry a printed e-visa ($25–$50) and passport photocopy; ensure details match passport; 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-visa 7–14 days early; check status at evisa.gov.vn; a guest from the US noted: “Self-guided exploration was smooth with proper e-visa documents.”
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 valid e-visa; 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.”
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: Use a multiple-entry e-visa for multi-city travel; carry a printed e-visa or passport photocopy; confirm details match passport 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.”
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: 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 properly prepared e-visa documents.
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, 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 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.
Document Preparation: Ensure passport validity (6+ months); obtain a digital passport photo (4x6 cm, white background) and a clear passport data page scan (.jpg, max 2MB); verify details match passport evisa.gov.vn.
Application Tips: Apply for e-visas at evisa.gov.vn 7–14 days early; use a reliable internet connection for uploads; double-check all entered details; save the verification code vietnam-visa.com.
Post-Application: Check e-visa status at evisa.gov.vn/e-visa/search; download and print the e-visa PDF; carry a digital copy on your phone evisa.gov.vn.
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 after entry.
Tip: Prepare documents early; carry a passport photocopy separately; use reputable agencies for expedited processing if needed; check visa status at evisa.gov.vn.
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, 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.
E-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 e-visa, tours, and transport; $0.20–$10 for purchases or add-ons; ensure e-visa documents are prepared to avoid delays.
Document Tips: Ensure passport validity (6+ months); obtain a digital passport photo (4x6 cm, white background) and a clear passport data page scan; verify all details match passport evisa.gov.vn.
Application Tips: Apply for e-visas at evisa.gov.vn 7–14 days early; use a reliable internet connection; double-check details; save the verification code vietnam-visa.com.
Etiquette: Use “xin chào” at immigration; 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, nearest embassy).
What documents are needed for a Vietnam e-visa? Passport (valid 6+ months), digital passport photo (4x6 cm, white background), and passport data page scan (.jpg, max 2MB) evisa.gov.vn.
How do I apply for a Vietnam e-visa? Apply online at evisa.gov.vn, upload documents, pay $25–$50, and print the e-visa PDF vietnam-visa.com.
How much does a Vietnam e-visa cost? $25 (single entry) or $50 (multiple entry); expedited processing: $10–$30 evisa.gov.vn.
Can an e-visa be extended? Non-extendable; requires exit and re-entry with a new e-visa vietnam-visa.com.
What happens if e-visa documents don’t match? Entry may be denied; ensure all details match passport exactly 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-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.
Mastering Vietnam E-Visa Documents with cultural etiquette—modest attire, polite greetings like “xin chào,” and meticulous document preparation—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 e-visa documents early via evisa.gov.vn, ensure details match your passport, 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
