Table of Contents
Essential guidelines for visiting Vietnam, covering eVisa applications, financial transactions, transportation, and public conduct.
1. Visa Requirements and Entry Procedures
As of 2026, Vietnam's eVisa system is available to citizens of all countries. The eVisa permits stays of up to 90 days and is accepted at 83 designated entry ports. The official government fee is $25 for a single-entry visa and $50 for a multiple-entry visa.
Passports must have a minimum of 6 months of validity from the date of arrival and contain at least two blank pages. Travelers can apply directly via the National Web Portal on Immigration, or request processing assistance through our application page.
Citizens of certain countries are eligible for visa exemptions. For example, nationals of the UK, France, Germany, Japan, and South Korea are permitted up to 45 days of visa-free entry. Citizens of ASEAN member states generally receive up to 30 days. For comprehensive information, consult the Vietnam visa guide.
Standard processing times are 3-5 working days. Travelers are advised to submit applications at least one to two weeks prior to their intended date of travel.
2. Currency and Financial Transactions
The official currency is the Vietnamese Dong (VND). Major hotels, established restaurants, and large retail outlets widely accept international credit and debit cards. However, cash remains necessary for smaller vendors, local markets, and rural areas.
Currency exchange services are available at international airports, commercial banks, and authorized exchange bureaus in urban centers. Banknotes must be intact; severely damaged or torn currency may be refused by vendors.
Travelers are advised to carefully verify transactions and change received, as the high denominations of VND banknotes can occasionally lead to calculation errors.
3. Transportation and Ride-Hailing Services
Public taxis are available at airports and in major cities. For standardized pricing and route tracking, visitors frequently utilize digital ride-hailing applications such as Grab. These platforms allow users to book automotive and motorcycle transport with pre-calculated fares. Fares can be paid in cash or via linked payment cards.
4. Pedestrian Guidelines
Traffic density in major urban centers, such as Hanoi (see the Noi Bai arrival guide) and Ho Chi Minh City (see the Tan Son Nhat guide), is high. When crossing roadways without designated pedestrian signals, pedestrians are advised to maintain a steady, predictable pace and avoid sudden stops or abrupt changes in direction. This allows oncoming traffic to adjust accordingly.
5. Cultural Etiquette and Regulations
Visitors are expected to observe local customs and adhere to public conduct standards. Modest attire, covering the shoulders and knees, is required when entering religious or state institutions. Footwear and headwear must often be removed before entering specific worship areas. Public displays of affection and pointing the soles of the feet toward individuals or altars are generally considered disrespectful.
6. Gratuities
Tipping is not a mandatory practice in Vietnam. However, gratuities for tour guides, drivers, and service staff in major tourism sectors are increasingly customary. Some hospitality establishments may apply a standard 5% to 10% service charge to the final invoice.