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Cruise ship passengers arriving in Vietnam must adhere to specific maritime immigration rules. Review the eVisa requirements and seaport entry procedures for 2026.
Visa Requirements for Cruise Passengers
The requirement for a visa depends on nationality and the itinerary of the vessel. As of 2026, the following regulations apply:
- Visa-Exempt Nationalities: Citizens from selected countries, including the UK, France, Germany, Japan, and South Korea, are eligible for visa-free entry for up to 45 days. If the cruise duration within Vietnam falls within this period, a visa is not required.
- The Phu Quoc Exemption: Passengers arriving directly to Phu Quoc Island by sea, and departing from Phu Quoc to an international destination without visiting mainland Vietnam, are eligible for a 30-day visa exemption.
- Non-Exempt Travelers: Citizens of countries not eligible for an exemption (e.g., the United States, Australia, Canada, India) must secure a valid visa prior to disembarking at mainland seaports, such as Halong Bay, Da Nang, or Ho Chi Minh City.
Obtaining a Visa for Maritime Entry
Passengers requiring a visa have two primary methods of procurement:
- 1. Apply for an eVisa (Recommended): The Vietnam eVisa is available to all nationalities. It permits a stay of up to 90 days. The standard fee is $25 for a single-entry visa and $50 for a multiple-entry visa. Passengers can apply online through the National Web Portal on Immigration before departure. During application, the exact seaport of first entry (e.g., Hon Gai Seaport, Chan May Seaport) must be specified from the 83 permitted entry ports. See the eVisa seaport guide for a complete list.
- 2. Group Visa Facilitation via Cruise Line: Certain cruise operators facilitate a collective visa or entry permit for passengers. Fees for this service are typically charged to the passenger's onboard account. It is advisable to verify this service with the cruise operator prior to the voyage.
When submitting an individual eVisa application, the designated entry port must match the actual seaport of arrival. Selecting an airport instead of a seaport will result in denied permission to disembark.
Disembarkation and Immigration Procedures
Immigration procedures for cruise ships are conducted directly at the port. In many instances, Vietnamese immigration officials board the vessel at the first port of call to process travel documents. Passengers must present a passport valid for at least six months from the date of entry and, if applicable, a printed copy of the approved eVisa.