Updated for 2026 · Vietnam e-Visa Overview
Vietnam e-Visa: Complete Overview for 2026
What it is, who needs one, how long it lasts, and where to start — the short answer to every question that comes before "how do I apply."
A Vietnam e-Visa is an official electronic travel authorization issued by Vietnam Immigration, available to all nationalities, valid for up to 90 days with single or multiple entry. It's applied for and delivered entirely online — no embassy visit required — with standard processing in 3–5 working days or urgent options from 30 minutes to 3 days.
What the Vietnam e-Visa actually is
The e-Visa is a complete, standalone visa — not a pre-approval that needs to be exchanged for a stamp on arrival. Once issued, it's a PDF document with a QR code that immigration and airline staff scan directly. This is different from an approval letter used for Visa on Arrival — see our full approval letter vs. e-Visa comparison if you're deciding between the two.
Who needs one
As of current policy, e-Visa eligibility has expanded to citizens of all countries and territories. A small number of nationalities hold separate short-stay visa exemptions that shift periodically — including an August 2025 policy update granting additional European countries 45-day visa-free entry — so confirm current exemption status for your passport before assuming you don't need one.
How long it lasts and where it's valid
| Detail | Current policy |
|---|---|
| Maximum stay | 90 days from date of entry |
| Entry type | Single-entry (standard) or multiple-entry (+$25) |
| Entry points | 83 approved airports, land borders, and seaports |
| 90-day clock starts | From first entry, not from issuance date |
If your trip involves leaving Vietnam and coming back — a side trip to Cambodia or Laos, for example — see our guide on single vs. multiple entry before you apply, since this can't be changed after approval.
How to actually get one
- Prepare a passport scan and compliant photo — see photo requirements
- Submit your application with entry date, port, and entry type
- Choose standard or urgent processing and pay securely
- Receive your approved e-Visa PDF by email
Full walkthrough: how to apply for a Vietnam e-Visa. Applying close to your travel date? See our urgent processing guide for options from 30 minutes to 3 days.
What it costs
| Processing speed | Total (incl. govt fee) |
|---|---|
| Standard (3–5 days) | $25 single / $50 multiple |
| 3 days (urgent) | $90 |
| 1 day | $110 |
| 1.5 hours | $185 |
| 30–60 minutes | $215 |
Full breakdown: service fee guide.
Frequently asked questions
Is the Vietnam e-Visa the same as a visa on arrival?
No. The e-Visa is a complete visa issued before travel; Visa on Arrival requires an approval letter exchanged for a stamp at the airport. See our full comparison.
Do I need to visit an embassy?
No, the entire process — application, payment, and delivery — happens online.
How long before my trip should I apply?
At least 5 working days for standard processing to avoid any urgent fee — see our departure timeline guide for exact timing.
Can I extend my e-Visa once I'm in Vietnam?
E-Visa extensions are handled separately through local immigration offices in Vietnam — contact support for guidance if you're already in-country and need more time.
What's the difference between this and applying through an agency?
The resulting e-Visa is identical either way — an agency adds document checks and urgent processing options. See our full comparison.
Apply for your e-Visa → WhatsApp support (24/7)