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Citizens of 25 countries may enter Vietnam without a visa. Review the eligibility criteria, duration limits, and conditions where an eVisa is required.
What is Visa-Free Entry?
Visa-free entry (or visa exemption) permits eligible travellers to arrive at a Vietnamese border checkpoint and receive an entry stamp without a prior visa application or fee. Currently, citizens of 25 countries are eligible. This includes a 45-day stay for 13 countries (such as the United Kingdom, France, Germany, Japan, and South Korea) and up to 30 days for most ASEAN member states. For complete eligibility criteria, refer to our Vietnam Visa Free Countries guide.
What is the eVisa?
The eVisa is an electronic visa issued by the Vietnam Immigration Department. It must be obtained online prior to travel. The eVisa is available to all nationalities and permits a maximum stay of up to 90 days, with options for single or multiple entries. It is valid for entry at 83 designated checkpoints across the country. For comprehensive details, consult our Vietnam Visa Guide.
Visa-Free vs eVisa: The Comparison
Here is a breakdown of the two options:
| Feature | Visa-Free Entry | Vietnam eVisa |
|---|---|---|
| Cost | Free | $25 (single-entry) / $50 (multiple-entry) |
| Preparation | Passport presentation at border | Online application required prior to travel |
| Duration | 14 to 45 days (nationality-dependent) | Up to 90 days |
| Entries | Single entry per visit | Single or multiple entries |
| Eligibility | 25 specific countries | All nationalities |
When Eligible Citizens Require an eVisa
Holders of passports from visa-exempt countries must still apply for an eVisa under the following conditions:
- The intended duration of stay exceeds the visa-free limit (e.g., a UK citizen intending to stay for 60 days).
- The itinerary involves leaving and re-entering Vietnam multiple times (a multiple-entry eVisa is required, as visa-free entry is valid for a single entry per visit).
You cannot extend a visa-free stay inside Vietnam. You must exit and re-enter the country or secure an eVisa before your initial trip.
Application Process
If your itinerary requires an eVisa, applications must be submitted prior to departure. Apply for your Vietnam eVisa to secure your entry document in advance.