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  1. Home
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  4. Vietnam Visa for Long Stay: A Comprehensive Guide for Your Journey

Vietnam Visa for Long Stay: A Comprehensive Guide for Your Journey

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Contents
  1. Author Bio:
  2. Why Understand Vietnam Visa for Long Stay?
  3. Vietnam Visa for Long Stay: Options and Requirements
  4. Cultural Etiquette for Long-Stay Travel in Vietnam
  5. Vietnam Tour Options for Long-Stay Travelers
  6. Why Choose These Visa and Travel Options?
  7. Best Time to Apply and Travel to Vietnam for Long Stays
  8. How to Apply for a Long-Stay Vietnam Visa
  9. What to Pack for Long-Stay Travel to Vietnam
  10. Costs and Budget Planning
  11. Practical Tips for Vietnam Visa for Long Stay and Travel
  12. FAQ: Common Questions on Vietnam Visa for Long Stay
  13. Sustainable Tours with Legend Travel Group
  14. Conclusion

Overview

Plan your long stay in Vietnam with our visa guide! Learn about e-visa, visa on arrival, embassy visa, extensions, costs, and eco-friendly Vietnam Tours for seamless Vietnam Travel. Start your journey today!

Embrace the vibrant energy of Vietnam’s cultural heritage during your extended stayEmbrace the vibrant energy of Vietnam’s cultural heritage during your extended stay

Author 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, myvietnamvisa.com, vietnamvisa.govt.vn, and cambodia-travel.com. Information based on latest data; verify before travel. Reflects Vietnam’s updated travel regulations.

Why Understand Vietnam Visa for Long Stay?

A Practical, Cultural, and Sustainable Travel Essential

Vietnam, a vibrant Southeast Asian destination, is renowned for its rich history, cultural landmarks like Hoi An’s Ancient Town, Ha Long Bay’s limestone karsts, and bustling cities like Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City cambodia-travel.com. A growing destination for long-stay travelers due to its cultural appeal, affordable living, and accessibility, Vietnam attracts those seeking extended Vietnam Tours or immersive Vietnam Travel experiences culturetrip.com. Understanding the Vietnam visa options for long stays is crucial for international travelers to ensure legal residency while exploring cultural treasures or engaging in sustainable travel. Most nationalities require a visa for stays beyond short-term exemptions, with options for extensions or alternative visa types vietnam-visa.com. This guide provides detailed insights into long-stay visa options, requirements, and eco-friendly travel tips to enhance your extended journey.

Following Vietnam’s updated travel regulations, long-stay travelers can use e-visa, visa on arrival, embassy visas, or explore extensions and business visas. This guide outlines the options and processes to ensure a seamless experience for your Vietnam Travel adventure.

Administrative Note

Most international tourists require a visa for stays in Vietnam beyond short-term exemptions (15–30 days for select nationalities). Long-stay options include 90-day e-visas or visas on arrival (single or multiple entry), embassy visas (up to 90 days or longer with specific purposes), and visa extensions or business visas for extended stays. Passports must be valid for at least 6 months beyond the arrival date with two blank pages. Visa fees range from $25–$100 (~625,000–2,500,000 VND), with additional costs for extensions or business visas. Processing times range from 3–7 business days for e-visa/visa on arrival and 5–7 business days for embassy visas, with expedited options available. Verify requirements via vietnamvisa.govt.vn or trusted agencies like vietnam-visa.com.

Vietnam Visa for Long Stay: Options and Requirements

Key Visa Information for Long Stays

  • Visa Options for Long Stays:

    • E-Visa:

      • Duration: Up to 90 days (single or multiple entry).

      • Cost: $25 (~625,000 VND, single entry) or $50 (~1,250,000 VND, multiple entry).

      • Processing Time: 3–7 business days; urgent processing (1–2 days or 4–8 hours) for an additional $10–$50 (~250,000–1,250,000 VND).

      • Requirements: Online application via evisa.gov.vn; digital passport photo (4x6 cm, no glasses, recent), scanned passport bio page (JPEG), credit/debit card for payment.

    • Visa on Arrival (Air Entry Only):

      • Duration: Up to 90 days (single or multiple entry).

      • Cost: Service fee: $25 (~625,000 VND, single entry) or $50 (~1,250,000 VND, multiple entry), paid online; stamping fee: $25 (~625,000 VND, single entry) or $50 (~1,250,000 VND, multiple entry), paid in cash (USD/VND) at the airport. Total: $50–$100 (~1,250,000–2,500,000 VND).

      • Processing Time: 3–7 business days for approval letter; urgent processing (1–2 days or 4–8 hours) for an additional $10–$50 (~250,000–1,250,000 VND).

      • Requirements: Online application via agencies like vietnam-visa.com; approval letter, passport, two 4x6 cm photos, and cash for stamping fee at the airport.

    • Embassy Visa:

      • Duration: Up to 90 days or longer (e.g., 6 months or 1 year for business or specific purposes, subject to embassy approval).

      • Cost: $40–$100 (~1,000,000–2,500,000 VND), varies by embassy and visa type.

      • Processing Time: 5–7 business days; urgent processing may be limited.

      • Requirements: Original passport, completed application form, one 4x6 cm photo, visa fee; additional documents (e.g., invitation letter, business contract) may be required for long-term visas.

    • Visa Extensions:

      • Duration: Extends existing visa (e.g., e-visa or visa on arrival) for up to 90 additional days, subject to approval by Vietnam Immigration Department.

      • Cost: $10–$50 (~250,000–1,250,000 VND), depending on duration and agency fees.

      • Processing Time: 5–7 business days; must be applied for within Vietnam via agencies or immigration offices.

      • Requirements: Original passport, current visa, and application through a local agency or immigration office (e.g., in Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh City).

    • Business Visa (DN Visa):

      • Duration: Up to 1 year (single or multiple entry), typically for business purposes or long-term stays with sponsorship.

      • Cost: $50–$200 (~1,250,000–5,000,000 VND), depending on duration and embassy/agency fees.

      • Processing Time: 5–10 business days, depending on sponsorship and approval.

      • Requirements: Sponsorship letter from a Vietnamese company, original passport, application form, one 4x6 cm photo, and additional documents (e.g., business license, contract).

  • Special Notes:

    • Visa on arrival is only applicable for air travel at international airports (e.g., Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, Da Nang) and requires a pre-approved visa letter vietnam-visa.com.

    • E-visa is valid at 13 airports, 16 land borders, and 13 seaports vietnamvisa.govt.vn.

    • Phu Quoc Island offers a 30-day visa exemption for direct arrivals by air or sea with an onward ticket, unsuitable for long stays vietnam-visa.com.

    • Overseas Vietnamese and their spouses/children may be eligible for a 5-year visa exemption certificate, allowing multiple entries for up to 6 months per visit; contact a Vietnamese Embassy for details vietnamvisa.govt.vn.

    • Overstaying incurs fines (~1,250,000 VND/day or ~$50/day), payable in cash at immigration offices.

    • Long-stay visas (e.g., business visas or extensions) may require local sponsorship or additional documentation; consult agencies or immigration offices myvietnamvisa.com.

    • Note: Always verify with vietnamvisa.govt.vn to confirm visa requirements, as some sources may provide outdated information.

Key Considerations for Long Stays

  • Choosing the Right Visa: For stays up to 90 days, e-visa or visa on arrival (multiple entry) is ideal. For longer stays (6 months–1 year), consider embassy-issued business visas or visa extensions, which require additional documentation or sponsorship vietnam-visa.com.

  • Visa Extensions: Extensions must be processed within Vietnam through agencies or immigration offices; apply at least 7 days before your current visa expires to avoid fines. Contact agencies like vietnam-visa.com for assistance.

  • Business Visa Sponsorship: Requires a Vietnamese company or organization to sponsor the application; processing may take longer (5–10 days) due to verification vietnamvisa.govt.vn.

  • Application Timing: Apply 7–14 days early for standard processing (3–7 days for e-visa/visa on arrival, 5–7 days for embassy visas); allow extra time for business visas or extensions (5–10 days). Avoid holidays like Tet (January/February) to prevent delays.

  • Tip: Opt for a multiple-entry e-visa ($50, 3–7 days) for stays up to 90 days; pursue extensions or business visas for longer stays. Verify requirements via vietnamvisa.govt.vn. A guest shared: “Extending our e-visa in Hanoi was straightforward with an agency’s help.”

Cultural Etiquette for Long-Stay Travel in Vietnam

Respecting Vietnam’s Cultural Heritage

Cultural etiquette enhances your experience during long-term Vietnam Tours with a visa. Here’s your guide, based on current norms:

  • Greetings: Offer a “xin chào” (hello) with a slight nod; use both hands when presenting your passport, e-visa, or visa approval letter at immigration or local offices to show respect.

  • Dress: Wear modest clothing covering shoulders and knees for cultural sites like pagodas or markets; a lightweight scarf ($1 or 25,000 VND) aligns with local norms, especially for long-term residents visiting communities culturetrip.com.

  • Behaviour: Maintain a calm demeanor at immigration or local offices; avoid loud behavior in public spaces; ask permission before photographing locals or rituals. Avoid pointing at people or sacred objects, as this is disrespectful. A guest shared: “Respecting customs made our long stay in Vietnam welcoming.”

  • Customs: Avoid public criticism of the government to prevent issues, especially during long stays; tipping is not mandatory but appreciated ($0.20–$1 or 5,000–25,000 VND); respect local traditions during festivals like Tet culturetrip.com.

  • Tip: Say “cảm ơn” (thank you) to immigration officers, local staff, or hosts; use eco-friendly practices like reusable water bottles ($1 or 25,000 VND) to support sustainable Vietnam Travel; carry your visa documents securely for extensions or checks. Tony Bùi notes: “In 20 years guiding, I’ve seen long-stay travellers thrive by embracing Vietnam’s vibrant culture.”

General Tips:

  • Language: Carry a phrase card ($1 or 25,000 VND) for Vietnamese basics like “cảm ơn”; English is common in tourist areas, but translation apps are useful in rural areas or for long-term stays culturetrip.com.

  • Respect: Follow immigration rules; avoid overstaying visas (fines of ~1,250,000 VND/day or ~$50/day apply, payable in cash); support local vendors with fair purchases in markets.

  • Navigation: Use offline maps (Maps.me) with “Hanoi” or “Ho Chi Minh City” for navigation; keep visa documents handy for immigration checks during long stays.

  • Eco-Tip: Use digital visa applications or confirmations to reduce paper waste; opt for bicycles ($2–$5 or 50,000–125,000 VND/day) or public transport to minimize emissions, aligning with Vietnam’s green tourism goals.

Note: Etiquette reflects current norms; verify visa details via vietnamvisa.govt.vn.

Vietnam Tour Options for Long-Stay Travelers

Below is a curated list of tour options to enhance your long-stay Vietnam experience with a visa, based on the latest data from vietnam-visa.com, myvietnamvisa.com, and cambodia-travel.com. Confirm schedules and prices before booking.

1. Self-Guided Exploration

  • Details: Explore Hanoi’s Old Quarter, Hoi An’s Ancient Town, or Ha Long Bay independently during your long stay; suitable for flexible travellers; low to moderate difficulty.

  • Visa Tips: Apply for a multiple-entry e-visa ($50, 3–7 days) or visa on arrival ($50–$100, 3–7 days) for flexibility; consider extensions (5–7 days) for stays beyond 90 days vietnamvisa.govt.vn.

  • Schedule: Daily; cultural sites like Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum open 7:30 AM–10:30 AM (free); markets open 6:00 AM–6:00 PM (free); vibrant during Tet (January/February, lunar calendar).

  • Cost: Entry: $0–$2 (0–50,000 VND); transport (bicycle: $2–$5 or 50,000–125,000 VND/day; taxi: $5–$10 or 125,000–250,000 VND); local purchases: $0.20–$10 (5,000–250,000 VND).

  • Location: Various cities in Vietnam (Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, Hoi An, Ha Long Bay).

  • Eco-Friendly Note: Use bicycles or public transport to reduce emissions; avoid littering at cultural sites or markets.

  • Tip: Apply early for visa extensions; visit early (6:00 AM) for serenity; a guest noted: “Self-guided exploration was perfect during our 3-month stay with an extended e-visa.”

2. Legend Travel Group (Group Cultural Tour)

  • Details: 1-day group tour visiting Hanoi’s Temple of Literature or Hoi An’s Ancient Town; includes English-speaking guide, transport, lunch, and entry fees; low difficulty.

  • Visa Tips: Apply for a multiple-entry e-visa ($50, 3–7 days) or visa on arrival ($50–$100, 3–7 days); carry passport or printed e-visa/approval letter; confirm entry point with tour operator vietnam-visa.com.

  • Schedule: Daily; departs 7:00 AM from Hanoi or Hoi An hotels; returns by 4:00 PM.

  • Cost: $25–$40/person (625,000–1,000,000 VND, includes entry).

  • Pick-up/Drop-off: Hotels in Hanoi or Hoi An.

  • Eco-Friendly Note: Group transport with fuel-efficient vehicles minimizes impact; supports local vendors.

  • Tip: Book via legendtravelgroup.com; a guest noted: “The group tour was a cultural highlight during our long stay.”

3. Local Vietnam (Combo Cultural and Adventure Tour)

  • Details: 1-day guided tour visiting Ha Long Bay for cruising and a local market; includes English-speaking guide, transport, lunch, and entry fees; low to moderate difficulty.

  • Visa Tips: Apply for a visa on arrival ($50–$100, 3–7 days) or multiple-entry e-visa ($50, 3–7 days); carry approval letter/photos or printed e-visa myvietnamvisa.com.

  • Schedule: Daily; departs 6:30 AM from Hanoi hotels; returns by 4:00 PM.

  • Cost: $30–$50/person (750,000–1,250,000 VND, includes entry).

  • Pick-up/Drop-off: Hotels in Hanoi.

  • Eco-Friendly Note: Small groups reduce environmental impact; supports local communities.

  • Tip: Book via localvietnam.com; a guest noted: “The combo tour was a great break during our extended stay.”

4. Multi-Day Cultural and Adventure Tour (Legend Travel Group)

  • Details: 2–3 day tour combining Hanoi’s cultural sites, Ha Long Bay’s cruises, and Hoi An’s Ancient Town; includes English-speaking guide, transport, accommodation, meals, and entry fees; low to moderate difficulty.

  • Visa Tips: Apply for a multiple-entry e-visa ($50, 3–7 days) or business visa (5–10 days) for multi-city travel; carry printed e-visa or documents; ensure accurate travel dates vietnamvisa.govt.vn.

  • Schedule: Daily; departs from Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh City 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, Ho Chi Minh City, or Hoi An.

  • 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 enriched our 6-month stay with a business visa.”

Why Choose These Visa and Travel Options?

  • E-Visa: Cost-effective ($25–$50) and convenient for up to 90-day stays, with extension options.

  • Visa on Arrival: Suitable for air travelers ($50–$100), extendable for longer stays.

  • Embassy Visa: Flexible for long-term stays (up to 1 year with business visas), ideal for specific needs.

  • Visa Extensions: Allow stays beyond 90 days, processed within Vietnam.

  • Business Visa: Suitable for stays up to 1 year with sponsorship, ideal for work-related long stays.

  • Self-Guided Exploration: Flexible and cost-effective, ideal for independent long-stay travellers.

  • Group Cultural Tours: Affordable and guided, perfect for cultural immersion during extended stays.

  • Combo Cultural and Adventure Tours: Blend cultural sites with adventure for a comprehensive experience.

  • Multi-Day Cultural Tours: Offer in-depth exploration, ideal for long-stay travelers exploring multiple cities.

  • Eco-Friendly Note: Group and multi-day tours use fuel-efficient transport or bicycles, supporting Vietnam’s green tourism goals.

Best Time to Apply and Travel to Vietnam for Long Stays

Key travel opportunities for long-stay tourists include:

  • Tet (Vietnamese Lunar New Year): Typically January/February (lunar calendar), vibrant with cultural celebrations; warm in the south (25–32°C), cooler in the north (15–25°C); check dates at cambodia-travel.com.

  • Mid-Autumn Festival: Typically September (lunar calendar), festive with lantern displays; warm and rainy (24–33°C); check dates at cambodia-travel.com.

  • Cultural Site Visits: November–April for dry conditions in the south (Ho Chi Minh City, Phu Quoc); March–April for mild weather in the north (Hanoi, Ha Long Bay); February for optimal weather nationwide holiday-weather.com.

Dry season (November–April, 25–33°C in the south, 15–25°C in the north) is ideal for cultural visits, markets, and festivals, perfect for long-stay travelers settling in. Wet season (May–October, 24–33°C) suits budget travelers and indoor cultural experiences. Morning visits (6:00 AM–10:00 AM) avoid heat or crowds. Apply for your visa or extension 7–14 days before travel or expiry to account for processing times (3–7 days for e-visa/visa on arrival, 5–10 days for embassy/business visas). Verify weather via accuweather.com.

How to Apply for a Long-Stay Vietnam Visa

  • E-Visa (Up to 90 Days):

    1. Visit evisa.gov.vn; complete the online form with accurate passport details.

    2. Upload a digital passport photo (4x6 cm, no glasses, recent) and scanned passport bio page (JPEG).

    3. Pay $25 (~625,000 VND, single entry) or $50 (~1,250,000 VND, multiple entry) via credit/debit card; add $10–$50 (~250,000–1,250,000 VND) for urgent processing if needed.

    4. Receive the e-visa via email within 3–7 business days (or 1–2 days with urgent processing).

    5. Print the e-visa and present it with your passport at an approved entry point (air, land, or sea).

  • Visa on Arrival (Up to 90 Days, Air Entry Only):

    1. Apply online via vietnam-visa.com; provide passport details and select multiple entry for flexibility.

    2. Pay the service fee ($25–$50 or ~625,000–1,250,000 VND); add $10–$50 (~250,000–1,250,000 VND) for urgent processing if needed.

    3. Receive the approval letter via email within 3–7 business days (or 4–8 hours for urgent processing).

    4. Prepare two 4x6 cm photos and cash ($25–$50 or ~625,000–1,250,000 VND) for the stamping fee.

    5. Present documents at the “Visa on Arrival” counter at an international airport (e.g., Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, Da Nang).

  • Embassy Visa (Up to 1 Year with Business Visa):

    1. Contact the nearest Vietnamese Embassy (e.g., Bangkok: +66-2-251-5836; check vietnamvisa.govt.vn for locations).

    2. Submit original passport, completed application form, one 4x6 cm photo, and fee ($40–$100 or ~1,000,000–2,500,000 VND); include sponsorship letter or business documents for long-term visas.

    3. Processing takes 5–10 business days; collect your passport or arrange return mail.

  • Visa Extension (Up to 90 Additional Days):

    1. Contact a local agency (e.g., vietnam-visa.com) or visit an immigration office in Vietnam (e.g., Hanoi: 44 Trần Phú, Ba Đình; Ho Chi Minh City: 196 Nguyễn Thị Minh Khai, District 3).

    2. Submit your original passport, current visa, and extension application; pay $10–$50 (~250,000–1,250,000 VND).

    3. Processing takes 5–7 business days; collect your passport with the extended visa.

  • Business Visa (Up to 1 Year):

    1. Secure a sponsorship letter from a Vietnamese company or organization.

    2. Apply through a Vietnamese Embassy or agency; submit original passport, application form, one 4x6 cm photo, sponsorship letter, and fee ($50–$200 or ~1,250,000–5,000,000 VND).

    3. Processing takes 5–10 business days; collect your passport or arrange return mail.

  • Eco-Tip: Use digital visa applications for e-visa or visa on arrival to reduce paper waste; opt for bicycles ($2–$5 or 50,000–125,000 VND/day) or public transport for sustainable travel during long stays.

  • Tip: Apply for e-visa or visa on arrival 7–14 days early; pursue extensions or business visas at least 7 days before expiry; carry USD/VND for stamping fees or fines; confirm requirements via vietnamvisa.govt.vn. A guest noted: “Our business visa took 7 days to process, perfect for our 6-month stay.”

What to Pack for Long-Stay Travel to Vietnam

Pack for a comfortable, sustainable long stay:

  • Documents: Passport (valid 6+ months), printed e-visa or visa approval letter, two passport-sized photos (4x6 cm, no glasses), cash (USD or VND) for visa on arrival stamping fee ($25–$50 or ~625,000–1,250,000 VND) or extension fees ($10–$50), wallet ($2–$3 or 50,000–75,000 VND), tour bookings, sponsorship letters (for business visas).

  • Clothing: Modest clothing covering shoulders and knees; lightweight scarf ($1 or 25,000 VND) for cultural site visits; quick-dry clothing and raincoat ($2 or 50,000 VND) for wet season; lightweight clothing like cotton or linen and light jacket ($5 or 125,000 VND) for dry season; waterproof shoes ($5 or 125,000 VND); hat ($2 or 25,000 VND).

  • Essentials: Reusable water bottle ($1 or 25,000 VND); snacks ($0.20–$1 or 5,000–25,000 VND, e.g., phở); 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 ($5–$10 or 125,000–250,000 VND); local SIM ($2–$3 or 50,000–75,000 VND); waterproof camera ($20 or 500,000 VND) for photos (with permission).

  • Eco Items: Reusable tote ($1 or 25,000 VND) for market purchases; phrase card ($1 or 25,000 VND) with Vietnamese basics.

  • Extras: Small VND notes for 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; copies of visa documents for immigration checks. Tip: Pack light (1–2 bags, max 10 kg); reusable items support sustainability for long stays.

Costs and Budget Planning

Costs for Visa and Long-Stay Travel in Vietnam

Visa Costs

  • E-Visa: $25 (~625,000 VND, single entry) or $50 (~1,250,000 VND, multiple entry).

  • Visa on Arrival: Service fee: $25–$50 (~625,000–1,250,000 VND); stamping fee: $25–$50 (~625,000–1,250,000 VND); total: $50–$100 (~1,250,000–2,500,000 VND).

  • Embassy Visa: $40–$100 (~1,000,000–2,500,000 VND).

  • Visa Extension: $10–$50 (~250,000–1,250,000 VND) per extension.

  • Business Visa: $50–$200 (~1,250,000–5,000,000 VND).

  • Urgent Processing Fee: $10–$50 (~250,000–1,250,000 VND) for 1–2 day or 4–8 hour processing (e-visa or visa on arrival). Travel Tour Costs

  • Self-Guided Exploration: Entry: $0–$2 (0–50,000 VND); transport (bicycle: $2–$5 or 50,000–125,000 VND/day; taxi: $5–$10 or 125,000–250,000 VND).

  • Group Cultural Tours: $25–$40 (625,000–1,000,000 VND, includes entry).

  • Combo Cultural and Adventure Tours: $30–$50 (750,000–1,250,000 VND, includes entry).

  • Multi-Day Cultural Tours: $80–$200 (2,000,000–5,000,000 VND, includes entries). Other Costs

  • Local Snacks (e.g., phở, banh mi): $0.20–$1 (5,000–25,000 VND).

  • Souvenirs (e.g., silk scarves, conical hats): $0.20–$10 (5,000–250,000 VND).

  • Donations at Cultural Sites: $0.20–$1 (5,000–25,000 VND).

  • Long-Stay Expenses: Monthly accommodation (e.g., apartment rental): $200–$600 (~5,000,000–15,000,000 VND); utilities: $20–$50 (~500,000–1,250,000 VND). Total Monthly Cost (Per Person, Excluding Visa)

  • Budget: $250–$400 (~6,250,000–10,000,000 VND, self-guided, basic accommodation, snacks, transport).

  • Mid-range: $400–$700 (~10,000,000–17,500,000 VND, group tours, mid-range accommodation).

  • Luxury: $700–$1,200 (~17,500,000–30,000,000 VND, private tours, premium accommodation). Tip: Budget $25–$200 (~625,000–5,000,000 VND) for initial visa and extensions, plus $250–$1,200 (~6,250,000–30,000,000 VND) monthly for long-stay travel costs, and $0.20–$10 (~5,000–250,000 VND) for purchases or add-ons.

Practical Tips for Vietnam Visa for Long Stay and Travel

  • Visa Tips: Apply for a multiple-entry e-visa ($50, 3–7 days) or visa on arrival ($50–$100, 3–7 days) for up to 90 days; pursue extensions (5–7 days) or business visas (5–10 days) for longer stays; apply 7–14 days early and verify via vietnamvisa.govt.vn. Use agencies for extensions or business visa sponsorship.

  • Etiquette: Use “xin chào” greeting; dress modestly for cultural sites and immigration offices; respect local authorities; avoid overstaying visas to prevent fines (payable in cash).

  • Access: Choose self-guided exploration for flexibility, group tours for cultural insights, or multi-day tours for deeper immersion during long stays.

  • Schedules: Cultural sites open 7:00 AM–6:00 PM; markets open 6:00 AM–6:00 PM; peak crowds in dry season (November–April); book early for festivals (January/February, September).

  • Sustainability: Use digital visa applications; carry reusable items; support local vendors with fair purchases.

  • Navigation: Use offline maps (Maps.me) for key cities like “Hanoi” or “Ho Chi Minh City”; keep visa documents for immigration checks.

  • Weather: Dry season (Nov–Apr, 25–33°C in the south, 15–25°C in the north) ideal; wet season (May–Oct, 24–33°C) suits indoor activities; check forecasts via accuweather.com.

  • Safety Note: Secure valuables with a money belt ($2 or 50,000 VND); beware of pickpocketing in markets; carry emergency numbers (Police: 113, Medical: 115).

FAQ: Common Questions on Vietnam Visa for Long Stay

  • What visa is best for a long stay in Vietnam? Multiple-entry e-visa ($50, up to 90 days) or visa on arrival ($50–$100) for up to 90 days; extensions ($10–$50) or business visas ($50–$200, up to 1 year) for longer stays vietnam-visa.com.

  • Can I extend my Vietnam visa for a long stay? Yes, extensions (up to 90 days, 5–7 days processing) are available via agencies or immigration offices; apply before expiry myvietnamvisa.com.

  • How long does it take to process a long-stay visa? E-visa/visa on arrival: 3–7 days (urgent: 1–2 days or 4–8 hours); embassy/business visas: 5–10 days; extensions: 5–7 days vietnamvisa.govt.vn.

  • What are the costs for a long-stay visa? E-visa: $25–$50 (~625,000–1,250,000 VND); visa on arrival: $50–$100 (~1,250,000–2,500,000 VND); embassy visa: $40–$100 (~1,000,000–2,500,000 VND); extensions: $10–$50 (~250,000–1,250,000 VND); business visa: $50–$200 (~1,250,000–5,000,000 VND) vietnam-visa.com.

  • Can I visit Phu Quoc for a long stay without a visa? No, Phu Quoc’s 30-day exemption is for short stays only; long stays require a visa or extension vietnam-visa.com.

  • Are eco-friendly tours available in Vietnam? Yes, group tours with fuel-efficient transport or bicycles; check localvietnam.com.

Sustainable Tours with Legend Travel Group

Enhance your long-stay Vietnam journey with eco-conscious tours from Legend Travel Group:

  • Vietnam Cultural Eco-Tour ($25–$40/person, ~625,000–1,000,000 VND, 1 day): Guided temple and market tour with sustainable practices.

  • Vietnam Cultural and Adventure Trail ($80–$150/person, ~2,000,000–3,750,000 VND, 2 days): Explore ecotourism sites with eco-friendly transport.

  • Vietnam Explorer ($150–$250/person, ~3,750,000–6,250,000 VND, 3 days): Multi-site adventure with eco-lodges and community-focused activities. Prices include guides, transport, and fees; group discounts available. Explore options at legendtravelgroup.com or contact sales@legendtravelgroup.com / WhatsApp (+84825862222) for your Vietnam Travel plans.

Conclusion

Mastering the Vietnam Visa for Long Stay with cultural etiquette—modest attire, polite greetings like “xin chào,” and timely visa applications or extensions—unlocks a vibrant, eco-friendly journey through this Southeast Asian gem. With visa options for up to 90 days (e-visa/visa on arrival) or longer (business visas/extensions), costs from $25–$200 (~625,000–5,000,000 VND), and eco-friendly Vietnam Tours, this trip offers adventure and sustainability. Apply early (7–14 days) and respect local customs for the best experience with Vietnam Travel. For more guides, check trusted resources like vietnamvisa.govt.vn. Safe travels!

Sources:

  • Visa Information: vietnam-visa.com, myvietnamvisa.com, vietnamvisa.govt.vn

  • Cultural and Travel Details: culturetrip.com, cambodia-travel.com

  • Weather Information: accuweather.com

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