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China is Vietnam's second-largest tourism market. Chinese citizens need an eVisa — but there are special considerations for certain passport types.
Do Chinese Citizens Need a Visa for Vietnam?
Yes. Chinese passport holders are NOT eligible for visa-free entry to Vietnam. A visa is required for all visits.
The Vietnam eVisa is available to Chinese citizens (allowing stays up to 90 days) and is the most convenient option for tourism. Both regular passports and E-passports (starting with E) are accepted. However, there are important considerations regarding certain Chinese e-passport types that all travelers should be aware of.
Chinese e-passports contain a map that is politically sensitive in Vietnam. As a result, Vietnamese immigration does NOT stamp Chinese passports directly — instead, they issue a 'loose-leaf visa' (separate paper document). This does not prevent entry, but you must keep this document safe throughout your trip.
Visa Options for Chinese Travelers
Chinese passport holders have these options:
| Option | Cost | Processing | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| eVisa (Single Entry) | $25 USD | 3-5 working days | Short tourism trips |
| eVisa (Multiple Entry) | $50 USD | 3-5 working days | Business travelers |
| Embassy Visa (Beijing/Guangzhou/Kunming/Nanning) | ¥400-600+ | 5-7 working days | Preferred for certainty |
| Tour Group Visa | Varies | Through tour operator | Package tour groups |
Chinese eVisa Requirements
To apply for a Vietnam eVisa as a Chinese citizen:
- Chinese passport valid for at least 6 months from entry date, with ≥ 2 blank pages
- Clear color scan of passport data page (JPEG/PNG, under 2MB)
- Recent passport-style photo: 4x6cm, white background, JPEG, under 2MB
- Working email address
- Credit/debit card for payment (UnionPay may not be accepted — use Visa/Mastercard)
- Planned travel dates and entry port
Popular Routes: China → Vietnam
Excellent connectivity between Chinese and Vietnamese cities:
- Beijing (PEK) → Hanoi (HAN): Vietnam Airlines, China Southern (~3.5 hours)
- Shanghai (PVG) → Ho Chi Minh City (SGN): Multiple carriers (~4.5 hours)
- Guangzhou (CAN) → Hanoi: China Southern, Vietnam Airlines (~1.5 hours)
- Kunming (KMG) → Hanoi: Very short flight (~1.5 hours) or overland train/bus
- Nanning (NNG) → Hanoi: China Southern (~1 hour) or overland via Huu Nghi border
- Shenzhen/Hong Kong → HCMC/Hanoi: Multiple daily flights
Chinese travelers from Southern China can also enter Vietnam overland via the Huu Nghi (Lang Son), Lao Cai, or Mong Cai land border crossings — all accept the eVisa.
Top Destinations for Chinese Tourists
Most popular Vietnam destinations among Chinese travelers:
- Ha Long Bay — #1 destination for Chinese tourists, similar to Guilin's karst landscape
- Nha Trang — Beach resort city, many Chinese-friendly services
- Da Nang — Beaches, Ba Na Hills, growing Chinese tourism infrastructure
- Ho Chi Minh City — Shopping, street food, Ben Thanh Market
- Hanoi — Cultural capital, Old Quarter, Temple of Literature
- Sapa — Mountain scenery, rice terraces, Fansipan cable car
- Phu Quoc — Island getaway, resorts, snorkeling
Tips for Chinese Travelers (中国游客提示)
Practical advice for Chinese citizens visiting Vietnam:
- WeChat Pay and Alipay are accepted at some tourist shops but NOT widely — carry VND cash
- CNY is NOT an accepted currency — exchange to VND or USD
- Exchange rate: approximately 1 CNY ≈ 3,500 VND (check current rates)
- Vietnam uses 220V electricity with Type A/C outlets — same voltage as China, adapter may be needed
- Time zone: Vietnam is GMT+7, same as Western China (but 1 hour behind Beijing time)
- Chinese Embassy in Hanoi and Consulate in HCMC available for emergencies
- Grab works for rides and food — download before arrival
- Some areas may have Chinese-language menus and guides, especially in tourist zones