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Visa on Arrival used to be the go-to option, but the eVisa has completely changed the landscape. Here is why the eVisa is your best choice in 2026.
The Shift to eVisa in 2026
For many years, Visa on Arrival (VOA) was the most popular way for travelers to enter Vietnam. It required obtaining an approval letter from an agency and then queuing at the airport to get the actual visa stamped. However, since the major visa policy update in August 2023, the Vietnam Electronic Visa (eVisa) has become the undisputed primary method of entry for foreigners in 2026.
As of 2026, the Vietnam eVisa is available to citizens of ALL countries and territories, making the old Visa on Arrival system largely obsolete for regular tourism.
Check If You Need a Visa (Exemptions)
Before deciding between an eVisa and VOA, check if you even need one. Vietnam offers 45-day visa-free entry for citizens of the UK, Germany, France, Italy, Spain, Japan, South Korea, Russia, Denmark, Norway, Sweden, Finland, and Belarus. ASEAN citizens enjoy up to 30 days visa-free. You only need to apply for a visa if you plan to stay longer.
eVisa vs Visa on Arrival: Key Differences
Here is a direct comparison between the two visa types:
| Feature | Vietnam eVisa | Visa on Arrival (VOA) |
|---|---|---|
| Application Process | 100% online directly with government | Requires an agency for an approval letter |
| Cost | $25 (Single) / $50 (Multiple) | Agency fee + $25 stamping fee at airport |
| Airport Experience | Skip the VOA line, go straight to passport control | Wait in the VOA queue to get the visa stamped |
| Entry Ports | 33 ports (Air, Land, Sea) | Only specific international airports |
| Validity | Up to 90 days | Usually up to 30 or 90 days depending on agency |
Why You Should Choose the eVisa
The eVisa offers several undeniable advantages:
- Cost-Effective: You only pay the official government fee ($25 or $50). There are no hidden agency fees or stamping fees.
- Time-Saving at the Airport: With an eVisa, you bypass the crowded Visa on Arrival counters and head straight to immigration.
- More Entry Options: The eVisa allows you to enter via land borders (like Moc Bai) and seaports, whereas VOA is strictly for air travel.
- Security: You apply on the official government portal, avoiding shady third-party agencies.
Is Visa on Arrival Completely Gone?
While the eVisa is the standard for tourists, Visa on Arrival still exists for specific cases, such as emergency travel, special business groups, or organized tours booked through approved Vietnamese travel agencies. However, for independent travelers, applying for an eVisa at least a week before departure is the recommended and safest route.