Vietnam Tourist Visa Requirements
Applying for a Vietnam tourist visa requires careful preparation to ensure your application is accepted without delays. In this article, SeniWorld will provide you with all the official Vietnam tourist visa requirements and a complete list of Vietnam tourist visa documents required for a successful visa application.
What Is A Vietnam Tourist Visa?
A Vietnam tourist visa is an official document issued by the Vietnamese government that allows foreign nationals to enter and travel within Vietnam for tourism purposes. This type of visa is typically valid for short-term stays and does not permit employment or business-related activities.
Depending on your nationality, you may be eligible to obtain a Vietnam tourist visa through an embassy, the eVisa system, or with a visa on arrival approval letter. Applications can be submitted either personally or with the assistance of licensed travel agencies or visa service providers.
Vietnam's Immigration Law stipulates two types of visas for foreigners traveling to Vietnam as follows:
- Tourist Visa: Allows tourists to enter Vietnam for tourism through a sponsoring international travel company. Tourist Visa is valid for a maximum of 3 months, but each entry, visitors are only allowed to stay for 30 days.
- Electronic tourist visa (Evisa tourist): Made directly through the electronic system of the Immigration Department without sponsorship. Evisa is valid for a maximum of 3 months. Visitors are allowed to stay continuously for 3 months in Vietnam.
Besides, Vietnam also offers a Visa Exemption Program, which applies to foreigners who are either unilaterally or bilaterally exempted from obtaining a visa for a limited period, depending on their country or territory. Travelers eligible under this program do not need to go through the standard visa application process or pay any visa fees, making it a convenient option for short-term visits.
Vietnam Tourist Visa Conditions
According to current Vietnamese immigration regulations, foreigners wishing to enter Vietnam on a tourist visa must meet the following requirements:
- Valid Passport
The applicant must hold a passport valid for at least six months from the date of entry into Vietnam. The passport must be recognized for international travel. - Location at Time of Application
Foreigners must be outside of Vietnam when applying for a tourist visa. - Not Subject to Entry Ban
Applicants must not be banned from entering Vietnam under any applicable laws. - Travel History (when applicable)
The applicant’s travel history - especially to developed countries - may be considered for certain Visa cases. - Proof of Travel Plans
Applicants may be required to present:
- A round-trip flight ticket
- A confirmed hotel reservation in Vietnam or
- A tour package organized by a licensed Vietnamese travel agency.
- Duration of Stay
Tourist visas are typically valid for up to 3 months (single or multiple entries), depending on the specific visa granted.
Vietnam Tourist Visa Documents Required
To successfully apply for a Vietnam tourist visa, applicants must prepare a complete set of documents in accordance with the official guidelines. The following is a list of the Vietnam tourist visa documents required, applicable to most standard visa applications:
- Visa Approval Letter (if applying for Visa on Arrival)
- Issued by the Vietnam Immigration Department through authorized travel or visa agencies.
- Must be printed and presented upon arrival at the airport.
- Completed Visa Application Form
- For eVisa: Fill out the online application form accurately at the official government portal or via a licensed visa service.
- For visa on arrival: A pre-approval letter is required before arriving in Vietnam.
- Valid Passport
- Must be valid for at least six months from the date of entry into Vietnam.
- Must have at least two blank pages for visa stamps.
- Passport-Size Photograph(s)
- Usually one (1) or two (2) recent color photos (4x6 cm) with a white background.
- Must be taken within the last six months.
- Visa Fee Payment
- For eVisa: Payment is made online during the application process.
- For visa on arrival: The stamping fee is paid in cash (USD or VND) at the airport.
- Travel Itinerary (if required)
Some embassies or consulates may request a copy of your flight booking and hotel reservation.
- Proof of Financial Means (if requested)
In rare cases, proof of sufficient funds may be required, particularly for longer stays or multiple entries.
Vietnam Tourist Visa Extension Conditions
According to regulations, foreigners entering Vietnam on a tourist visa cannot extend their stay. Therefore, foreign visitors need to pay attention to exiting Vietnam in accordance with regulations when their visa expires.
You can still re-enter Vietnam after completing all the procedures for applying for a tourist visa as before.
Note: In cases of force majeure (such as illness, accident, etc.), you can apply for a temporary residence extension at the nearest immigration authority. You need to prepare a temporary residence extension application, including:
- Application form for visa extension for foreigners, form NA5.
- Temporary residence extension explanation form.
- Temporary residence declaration form NA17.
- The original passport of the foreigner
Frequently Asked Questions About Vietnam Tourist Visa
Can I apply for a Vietnam tourist visa online?
Yes, most travelers are eligible to apply for a Vietnam tourist visa through the eVisa system. This method requires uploading the documents required for a Vietnam tourist visa and completing the process via the official government portal.
Can I convert a tourist visa to another visa Type?
A tourist visa can be converted to other types of visas, such as Work visas, Investment visas, Family visit visas, etc., if foreigners fully meet the requirements for the types of visas they intend to convert to.
What happens if my Vietnam tourist visa expires while I am in Vietnam?
Overstaying a visa may result in fines or legal consequences. Travelers are strongly advised to renew or extend their visa before the expiration date in accordance with the official Vietnam tourist visa requirements.
Which documents are required for a Vietnam tourist visa application?
The Vietnam tourist visa documents required generally include a passport valid for at least six months, passport-sized photos, a completed visa application form, and a visa approval letter (if applicable). Supporting documents such as flight and hotel bookings may be requested for certain cases.
How long is a Vietnam tourist visa valid for?
As of the latest regulations, Vietnam eVisas for tourists are valid for up to 90 days, with either single or multiple entries permitted. It is important to review the visa conditions carefully before entering Vietnam.
Conclusion
In summary, understanding and complying with the current Vietnam tourist visa requirements is essential for a successful and lawful entry into the country. Travelers are advised to carefully prepare all necessary documents in accordance with the applicable regulations and to stay informed about the latest updates to visa policies. For further assistance, travelers may consult authorized visa service providers or contact relevant Vietnamese immigration authorities.
