Vietnam Visa & Entry Rules for 2026: What Changed
Updated: Sep 9
Entry rules for Vietnam have changed a few times over the past year, so here is a plain breakdown of Vietnam visa 2026 rules for travelers from Australia, New Zealand, the UK, the US, and Canada.
Most nationalities need a Vietnam e-visa, valid for up to 90 days. UK passport holders currently get 45 days visa free through March 2028. Travelers from the US, Australia, New Zealand, and Canada need to apply for an e-visa in advance.
Vietnam Visa & Entry Rules for 2026: Do You Need One?
It depends on your passport. Here is where the five nationalities we host most often currently stand:
United Kingdom: visa free for stays up to 45 days, under an exemption that runs through March 2028
United States: e-visa required, no exemption currently applies
Australia: e-visa required
New Zealand: e-visa required
Canada: e-visa required
Rules like this can shift, so it is worth double checking against your nationality specifically before you book flights.
How the E-Visa Works
The e-visa is valid for up to 90 days and can be single or multiple entry. It is accepted at a wide range of entry points across the country, including the main airports and a number of land and sea borders.
Apply through the official portal, evisa.gov.vn
You will need a digital passport photo and a scan of your passport's information page
Processing typically takes a few business days, so apply at least a week before you fly
UK Visa Exemption Explained
British passport holders can currently enter Vietnam visa free for stays of up to 45 days. This exemption is set to run through March 2028, though it is always worth confirming close to your travel date in case anything changes.
New Health Declaration Requirement
Since July 2026, many international travelers are asked to complete a short health declaration before entering Vietnam. It can be submitted online and should be done within 7 days of your flight.
Passport & Entry Checklist
Passport valid for at least 6 months beyond your entry date
E-visa approval printed or saved offline, in case wifi is unreliable on arrival
Return or onward flight details, occasionally requested at immigration
Entry requirements can change with little notice. This page reflects the rules as of August 2026. Please confirm your specific requirements on the official e-visa portal before booking flights.
A Few Quick Questions
Can I extend my Vietnam visa?
In many cases yes, through a local travel agency or the immigration department, though the process and cost vary. It is easier to apply for the length you need from the start if you already know your travel dates.
Do children need their own visa?
Yes. Children generally need their own e-visa or passport entry, even if they are traveling on a parent's booking.
What if the rules change after I book?
Keep an eye on the official portal in the weeks before you fly. Airlines and immigration officers go by the rules in effect on your travel date, not the date you booked.
Once your entry details are sorted, our general pre-trip guide covers what to pack and how to ease into your first day in Hanoi.
Visa rules are one of those things that feel more complicated on paper than they turn out to be in practice. Most travelers spend more time reading about it than actually dealing with it at the airport.
Continue planning: Vietnam for first-time visitors
Dung (Emma) Co-founder of Beyond Vietnam
Xin chào! I’m Dung, but many travellers call me Emma. I grew up on the outskirts of Hanoi, and no matter how far I travel, this busy and slightly chaotic city still feels most like home.
I’ve explored Vietnam on my own and with the people I love, while also spending years volunteering and joining community projects. Along the way, I’ve collected plenty of stories, local tips and unforgettable moments. I share them here to help you feel closer to Hanoi and Vietnam, hopefully even before you arrive.
You can also find me on Facebook. Come and say hi!
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