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Find out if you need a transit visa for your layover in Vietnam in 2026. Learn about the rules for connecting flights and baggage claims.
Do You Need a Transit Visa for Vietnam?
For travelers passing through Vietnam in 2026, a transit visa is not required under specific conditions. If the layover is less than 24 hours and the passenger remains within the designated international transit area of the airport without passing through immigration, a visa is not required. However, if the flight itinerary requires passing through immigration control, a valid visa is mandatory.
A transit visa is not required if remaining in the transit area for under 24 hours. A visa is mandatory to pass through immigration.
When Is a Visa Required for Transit?
Passengers must apply for a Vietnam eVisa if encountering any of the following situations:
- Travel on Low-Cost Carriers (LCCs) such as VietJet Air or AirAsia, which may require passengers to collect luggage and check in again.
- Flights booked on separate tickets, necessitating immigration clearance to transfer baggage.
- The layover duration exceeds 24 hours.
- The passenger intends to leave the airport premises during the layover.
- The itinerary includes a domestic connection within Vietnam.
Visa Requirements for Transit Passengers
If the transit requires passing through immigration, applying for a Vietnam eVisa is necessary. As of 2026, the eVisa is available to all nationalities, costs $25 for a single-entry visa (or $50 for multiple-entry), and permits a stay of up to 90 days. Applications are processed through the National Web Portal on Immigration, but you can start your application on our apply online page. Standard processing takes approximately 3-5 working days.
| Transit Scenario | Visa Requirement |
|---|---|
| Stay in transit area < 24h | No Visa Required |
| Leave airport premises | eVisa Required |
| Separate tickets / Re-check baggage | eVisa Required |
| Layover > 24 hours | eVisa Required |
Transit Procedures at Major Airports
Passengers with connecting flights through major entry ports such as Tan Son Nhat (SGN) or Noi Bai (HAN) must verify baggage policies with their airline. If luggage is checked through to the final destination, passengers may remain in the transit area. If an airport exit is required, passengers must prepare appropriate entry documents as detailed in our Vietnam Visa Guide. Further details on specific entry ports can be found in our US Citizens Guide.