Comprehensive Visa Guide 2026: Vietnam, Cambodia & Laos (Everything You Need to Know). Planning a trip across Southest Asia in 2026? Visiting Vietnam is an incredible journey – but understanding visa requirements is essential for a smooth trip.
This guide aims to equip travelers with the necessary information regarding visa types, costs, application processes, and essential tips for Visa Vietnam.
1. Who Needs a Visa for Vietnam?
1.1 Vietnam Visa Exemption countries & Duration
As of 2026, regular passport holders of 38 countries DO NOT need a visa for Vietnam. Here is the full list of Vietnam visa free countries and exemption duration:
EN – Vietnam Visa exemption
| No. | Country | Maximum visa-free duration | Applicable purpose of visit (if any) |
| 1 | Chile | 90 days | Entries that do not include remunerated activities |
| 2 | Panama | 90 days | Entries that do not include remunerated activities |
| 3 | Cambodia | 30 days | Not mentioned |
| 4 | Indonesia | 30 days | Not mentioned |
| 5 | Kyrgyzstan | 30 days | Not mentioned |
| 6 | Laos | 30 days | Not mentioned |
| 7 | Malaysia | 30 days | Tourism, attending press, conference/coverage, official duty, visiting relatives, business negotiation, investment, sports, or attending seminars or conferences |
| 8 | Singapore | 30 days | Entries that do not include remunerated activities |
| 9 | Thailand | 30 days | Not mentioned |
| 10 | Philippines | 21 days | Not mentioned |
| 11 | Brunei | 14 days | Not mentioned |
| 12 | Myanmar | 14 days | Visiting only |
| 13 | Belarus | 30 days | Total stay duration in Vietnam is no more than 90 days in a 12-month period. |
| 14 | Denmark | 45 days | Not mentioned |
| 15 | Finland | 45 days | Not mentioned |
| 13 | France | 45 days | Not mentioned |
| 17 | Germany | 45 days | Not mentioned |
| 18 | Italy | 45 days | Not mentioned |
| 19 | Japan | 45 days | Not mentioned |
| 20 | Norway | 45 days | Not mentioned |
| 21 | Russia | 45 days | Not mentioned |
| 22 | South Korea | 45 days | Not mentioned |
| 23 | Spain | 45 days | Not mentioned |
| 24 | Sweden | 45 days | Not mentioned |
| 25 | United Kingdom (Not applicable to BNO) | 45 days | Not mentioned |
| 26 | Kazakhstan | 45 days | Not exceeding 90 days within 180 continuous days |
| 27 | Switzerland | 45 days | Not mentioned |
| 28 | Czech Republic | 45 days | Not mentioned |
| 29 | Poland | 45 days | Not mentioned |
| 30 | Belgium | 45 days | Not mentioned |
| 31 | Bulgaria | 45 days | Not mentioned |
| 32 | Croatia | 45 days | Not mentioned |
| 33 | Hungary | 45 days | Not mentioned |
| 34 | Luxembourg | 45 days | Not mentioned |
| 35 | Netherlands | 45 days | Not mentioned |
| 36 | Romania | 45 days | Not mentioned |
| 37 | Slovakia | 45 days | Not mentioned |
| 38 | Slovenia | 45 days | Not mentioned |
Important notes regarding Vietnam visa exemption:
- The 30-day interval between 02 stays with visa exemption has been removed in accordance with the new law on entry, exit, transit, and residence of foreigners in Vietnam which takes effect on July 1, 2020.
- British National Overseas (BNO) passport holders are not eligible for visa exemption for Vietnam. So, they need to apply for a visa to visit Vietnam. Check how to apply for Vietnam visa for BNO at https://www.vietnam-visa.com/guide/british-national-overseas/
- The visa-free stay period is counted from the date of entry.
The above information about the Vietnam visa exemption is provided for informational purposes only, please double-check with the official authorities in your current country before departure.
> Details as the list of official Government System (Updated on Sept 2025).
1.2 Who Needs a Visa for Vietnam?
Other countries which are not mentioned in the list will be required for VISA Vietnam.
2. Types of Visas for Vietnam
For those who do not qualify for a visa exemption or plan to stay longer, Vietnam offers several visa options:
2.1. Tourist Visa:
- Single Entry: Valid for 30 days. Ideal for short vacations.
- Multiple Entry: Valid for 30 days or 90 days, allowing entry multiple times within the period.
2.2. Business Visa:
- This type of visa is for business-related activities, and it can be issued for single or multiple entries for durations ranging from 30 month to 1 year.
2.3. Work Visa:
- For foreigners intending to work in Vietnam, these visas require sponsorship from a local employer or relevant Vietnamese authority.
2.4. Student Visa:
- This is applicable for students who intend to study in Vietnam, granted typically for the duration of the program.
2.5. Transit Visa:
- For travelers stopping over in Vietnam en-route to another destination.
2.6. E-Visa (Highly recommend):
- A convenient option for citizens of eligible countries allowing for a single entry for up to 30 days, this can be obtained online.
3. Application Process
Understanding the application process is critical to ensuring a smooth experience. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
3.1. Determine the Correct Visa Type
Identify the purpose of your visit and check the duration and type of visa you need based on your nationality.
3.2. Requirements for Making Vietnam Visa Exemption
To enter Vietnam with a visa exemption, eligible travelers must ensure:
- Their passport is valid for at least 6 months beyond their date of arrival in Vietnam
- Their passport contains at least 2 blank pages.
3.3. Vietnam Visa Exemption Extension
Before Covid Pandemic, the Vietnam visa exemption could be extended within Vietnam. However, this is no longer possible. Those wishing to stay in Vietnam beyond their allowed exemption duration have two options:
- Enter Vietnam with a visa exemption, then leave for a neighboring country (such as Thailand, Cambodia, or Laos) when the exemption period ends, and return with a new visa exemption. This method of extending your stay is known as a Visa Run. You can find full details here.
- Apply for a 90-day Vietnam e-visa to enter the country.
3.4. Gather Required Documents
Typical documents needed for a visa application include:
- A valid passport with at least six (06) months validity beyond your intended departure date from Vietnam.
- Completed visa application form.
- Passport-sized photos.
- Proof of travel arrangements (like flight bookings).
- Accommodation details (hotel bookings or invitation letters).
- For business visas: an invitation letter from the host company.
3.5 Apply for the Visa
a. In-person/Embassy Application:
- Submit your documents at the nearest Vietnamese embassy or consulate.
b. E-Visa Application:
- For eligible countries, visit the official Vietnam e-visa website and fill out the online application. It typically takes about 3 business days for processing.
- If you need our support for applying EVISA, please contact us at Hotline WhatsApp: (+84)965514942 or email: info@vietnamjourneysgroup.com
c. Visa on Arrival (VOA):
- Visa on Arrival is still available but less common now.
- Available for those entering Vietnam by air. You need to first apply for an approval letter through an online agency (with a fee), and then present it upon arrival at the airport.
- Requirements: Passport, passport photos, cash (USD) for stamping fee (USD 25/pax).
- Special note: only valid for air travel & not applicable for land border crossings.
d. Pay the Visa Fee
- When applying for a visa at an embassy or online, there may be additional processing fees depending on the service provider and the urgency of your request. Expedited service often comes with a premium attached, ranging from around 25 – 50USD.
- Travel agencies typically charge a service fee ranging from 50 to 330 USD or more, depending on the type of service you select for processing the approval letter. This fee is distinct from the actual visa cost, which varies by country. The charges may reflect the agency’s speed and efficiency, as many agencies provide Fast Track Services, enabling travelers to bypass potential long lines at immigration upon arrival.
e. Collect Your Visa
If you applied in person, return to the embassy or consulate to collect your visa. For e-visas, you will receive it via email. In the case of visas on arrival, your approval letter will allow you to obtain an official visa stamp at the airport.
4. Important Visa Rules
Before traveling to Vietnam, make sure:
- ✔ Passport valid at least 6 months
- ✔ At least 1–2 blank pages
- ✔ Printed copy of your e-visa (if use) or prepare saved files on the phone with QR code
- ✔ Correct entry port (must match your visa)
5. Common Mistakes to Avoid
Many travelers face issues due to simple mistakes:
- ❌ Applying on fake visa websites
- ❌ Entering wrong passport number
- ❌ Arriving at wrong entry port
- ❌ Overstaying visa
👉 Even small errors can lead to denied entry. Contact us at Hotline WhatsApp: (+84)965514942 or email: info@vietnamjourneysgroup.com for the best support.
6. Vietnam Visa Cost Summary (2026)
Visa Type Cost Duration Entry
- E-visa $25–$50 Up to 90 days Single/Multiple
- Visa on Arrival ~$25 + stamping fee 30–90 days Air only
- Visa exemption Free 15–45 days Single
7. Pro Travel Tips
- Apply for e-visa at least 1 week prior to your arrival date
- Save digital + printed copies
- Use multiple entry visa if traveling Indochina
- Always carry some USD cash
Final Thoughts
Vietnam has one of the most traveler-friendly visa systems in Southeast Asia in 2026. With the e-visa covering most nationalities and entry points, planning your trip is now faster and more convenient than ever.
Whether you’re visiting bustling cities like Ho Chi Minh City or exploring natural wonders, getting your visa sorted is one of the most important step to an unforgettable journey.
At Vietnam Journeys Group, we offer a comprehensive travel solution from Visa assistance to Flight, Hotels & all sightseeing tours with destinations. Let’s share your Vietnam plan with us via this form link ,contact us at Hotline WhatsApp at (+84965514942) or email us at info@vietnamjourneysgroup.com. We will ensure your journey is seamless, enjoyable, and perfectly tailored to your needs.
