Thinking about visiting Vietnam in 2026 and wondering what type of visa you’ll need?
Here’s a clear, up-to-date guide designed for travelers from the US, Canada, the UK, Australia, New Zealand, Europe, and other English-speaking countries.
Entry rules in Vietnam do change from time to time, but the 2026 regulations are straightforward — making the country even easier to explore.
Visa-Free Rules for 2026
Depending on your passport, you may qualify for visa-free entry. Many European and Asian nationalities can enter Vietnam visa-free for a limited number of days.
Visa-Free Entry for 2026: Which Countries Are Eligible?
Vietnam offers visa-free entry to a limited number of nationalities in 2026. Most eligible travelers come from Europe and Asia, and the standard visa-free stay ranges from 15 to 45 days, depending on the passport type.
European countries that currently enjoy 45-day visa-free entry include:
France, Germany, Italy, Spain, the Netherlands, Denmark, Sweden, Finland, Norway, the United Kingdom, Ireland, and Malta.
Some Asian countries — such as Japan, South Korea, and Singapore — also have visa-free access. A few Latin American countries, like Chile and Panama, have longer exemptions.
Countries That Need a Visa to Enter Vietnam
However, citizens of the United States, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand are not eligible for visa-free entry and must apply for an e-Visa before traveling.
Official Source for Visa Information
👉 Since visa regulations are updated from time to time, it’s always a good idea to check the official list of visa-exempt countries to make sure your passport is eligible.
https://www.myvietnamvisa.com/vietnam-visa-exemption.html
When You Need a Visa Before Traveling
You’ll need to apply for a visa if:
- Your stay exceeds the visa-free period
- your passport isn’t eligible
- You want multiple entry for regional travel (Thailand, Cambodia, Laos, Malaysia, etc.)
- You need a business, work, or study visa
- You want the most flexible option for a longer stay in Vietnam
Main visa types:
| Visa Type | Duration | Best For | Where to Apply |
|---|---|---|---|
| E-Visa (single/multiple entry) | Up to 90 days | Tourists | Online |
| Embassy Visa | Varies | Business, study, long-term stays | Vietnamese Embassy/Consulate |
Vietnam E-Visa (Up to 90 Days)
For many visitors, the e-Visa is the simplest and most convenient option for entering Vietnam. It offers plenty of flexibility, making it ideal for extended stays, regional trips, remote work, or a relaxed winter getaway in Southeast Asia.
How the E-Visa Works
The Vietnam e-Visa is a simple online process: you apply through the official website, upload your documents, and receive approval by email within a few days.
Validity
- Up to 90 days
- Single or multiple entry
E-visa Cost
Usually USD 25–50, depending on entry type.
Processing Time
Processing usually takes 3–5 business days, sometimes faster.
How to Apply for an E-Visa
- The process is fully online
- Upload a passport scan and a photo
- Pay the fee
- Receive your visa approval letter via email
👉 Official e-Visa website:
https://evisa.gov.vn/
(Avoid third-party intermediaries — use only the official government website.)
Extensions: Can You Stay Longer in Vietnam?
Extending your stay in Vietnam is still possible, but the process has become more regulated in recent years. Most extensions are now handled through licensed local agents, processing times can vary, and in many situations travelers are required to leave the country and re-enter to continue their stay.
The most common ways to extend your stay:
- Border run (exit to a nearby country, then re-enter Vietnam)
- Extension through an accredited visa agent
For long-term visitors, slow travelers, or digital nomads, it’s easiest to start with a 90-day E-Visa.
Do Immigration Officers Check Onward Tickets?
Sometimes immigration officers may ask for proof of onward travel, especially at Vietnam’s busiest airports. If you’re arriving in Ho Chi Minh City (SGN), Da Nang (DAD), or Hanoi (HAN), expect a bit more attention — these hubs welcome a huge number of international travelers every day, and officers simply need to make sure your plans match your permitted stay.
To avoid delays, have one of the following:
- a return ticket or a ticket to another country, or
- a documented itinerary (hotel bookings + bus/plane ticket to Cambodia, Laos, Thailand, etc.)
Checks are usually random — some travelers pass through quickly, while others are asked for details, especially when entering with a one-way ticket.
Travel Tips for a Smooth Arrival
- Take photos of your passport, visa, and entry stamp. Helpful for hotel check-ins or forms.
- Keep printed copies of your hotel reservation and onward ticket — useful if Wi-Fi is slow.
- Hold onto your boarding pass until after immigration.
- Stay friendly and patient — a little politeness truly goes a long way at immigration. A calm smile and a relaxed tone often make the whole process smoother for everyone.
You May Also Like
- Vietnamese Cuisine: 7 Must-Try Dishes in Vietnam
- A Week in Nha Trang travel guide: Sea, Food, and Adventures in Vietnam
Useful Links & Official Sources
- Vietnam Official E-Visa Portal:
https://evisa.gov.vn — apply for single or multiple entry e-Visas. - Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA):
https://www.mofa.gov.vn — official visa updates and policy announcements. - Vietnam Tourism (VNAT):
https://vietnam.travel — official guide to destinations, cities, and travel planning.
