Can I get a visa on arrival in Vietnam?

Yes, but only at major airports (Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, Da Nang) and only with pre-approval letter from a visa service. This costs $25 for pre-approval plus $25 stamping fee at airport. E-visa is faster and cheaper.

What if my e-visa application is rejected?

Vietnam rarely rejects e-visa applications if information matches your passport exactly. If rejected, you lose the $25 fee. Common reasons: wrong passport number, photo doesn't meet requirements, or criminal background. Reapply with correct information.

Can I extend my Vietnam tourist visa?

No, tourist visas cannot be extended. You must leave the country and reapply. If you overstay, expect a $25 per day fine plus potential entry ban. Plan your trip duration carefully.

Do I need a visa if I'm just transiting through Vietnam?

If you're staying in the international transit area under 24 hours, no visa needed. If you want to leave the airport or stay longer than 24 hours, you need a visa even for transit.

How to Get a Vietnam Visa in Advance

Most travelers can get a Vietnam visa online through the official e-visa portal for $25, processing in 3 business days. Americans, Europeans, and most other nationalities need a visa before arrival. Apply at least one week before your trip.

Check if you need a visa. Citizens of 25 countries including Germany, UK, France, Italy, and Spain can visit Vietnam visa-free for 45 days. Everyone else, including Americans, Canadians, and Australians, needs a visa. Check the official Vietnam immigration website for your country's requirements.
Choose your visa type. For tourism, get a single-entry e-visa (good for 30 days, $25) or multiple-entry e-visa (good for 90 days, $50). Business travelers need a business visa with invitation letter. Tourist visas cannot be extended.
Apply online through official portal. Go to evisa.xuatnhapcanh.gov.vn (the only official site). Fill out the form with exact passport details, upload a passport photo and passport scan. Pay $25 USD by credit card. Avoid third-party visa services that charge 3x more.
Wait for processing. E-visas process in 3 business days. You'll get an email with your visa approval letter. Print this letter in color on white paper - immigration will not accept phone screens or black-and-white copies.
Enter Vietnam. Present your printed e-visa approval letter, passport, and return ticket at immigration. Your visa officially starts on your entry date, not the application date. Keep the approval letter with you for the entire trip.

Can I get a visa on arrival in Vietnam?: Yes, but only at major airports (Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, Da Nang) and only with pre-approval letter from a visa service. This costs $25 for pre-approval plus $25 stamping fee at airport. E-visa is faster and cheaper.
What if my e-visa application is rejected?: Vietnam rarely rejects e-visa applications if information matches your passport exactly. If rejected, you lose the $25 fee. Common reasons: wrong passport number, photo doesn't meet requirements, or criminal background. Reapply with correct information.
Can I extend my Vietnam tourist visa?: No, tourist visas cannot be extended. You must leave the country and reapply. If you overstay, expect a $25 per day fine plus potential entry ban. Plan your trip duration carefully.
Do I need a visa if I'm just transiting through Vietnam?: If you're staying in the international transit area under 24 hours, no visa needed. If you want to leave the airport or stay longer than 24 hours, you need a visa even for transit.