Reviewed by: Professional Visa Consultants team of BTW Visas (Vietnam Visa Experts)
Planning a trip to Vietnam from India? You're not alone! Vietnam has become one of the fastest-growing destinations for Indian travelers, with over 500,000 Indians visiting in 2024. Whether you're drawn to the bustling streets of Hanoi, the serene beauty of Ha Long Bay, or the vibrant culture of Ho Chi Minh City, understanding Vietnam's visa requirements is your first step to an unforgettable journey.
This comprehensive guide covers everything Indian passport holders need to know about obtaining a Vietnam visa in 2025, from the simplest e-visa application to visa-on-arrival options, costs, processing times, and expert tips to ensure a smooth travel experience.
Staying informed about recent policy changes ensures you have the most current information for your Vietnam visa application.
Visa Exemption Discussions (Not Yet Implemented)
In November 2023, Vietnam's Minister of Culture, Sports, and Tourism proposed visa exemptions for Indian tourists to boost tourism. In July 2024, the Prime Minister directed relevant ministries to work on expanding visa-exempt countries. However, as of December 2025, no formal visa-free arrangement has been implemented for Indian passport holders. Continue to apply for visas as required.
Extended Visa Exemptions for Other Countries
From August 15, 2025, Vietnam extended visa exemptions to 45 days (from 30 days) for citizens of 12 countries: Germany, France, Italy, Spain, Russia, Japan, South Korea, Denmark, Sweden, Norway, Finland, and the UK. This policy is valid until August 14, 2028. Indian citizens are not included in this exemption.
E-Visa Expansion (Implemented August 2023)
Since August 15, 2023, Vietnam grants e-visas to citizens of all countries and territories, including India, with:
This expansion has made Vietnam travel significantly easier for Indian tourists.
Growing Indian Tourist Numbers
Vietnam has become one of the fastest-growing destinations for Indian travelers:
Peak Travel Seasons
Vietnamese Public Holidays Affecting Visa Processing
Plan your visa applications around these dates to avoid processing delays.
COVID-19 Related Updates
As of December 2025, Vietnam has fully lifted all COVID-19 entry restrictions:
Travel Insurance Recommendations
While not mandatory for visa applications, travel insurance is highly recommended for Vietnam travel. Ensure your policy covers:
Quick Answer:
Yes, Indian citizens require a valid visa to enter Vietnam. There are no visa-free arrangements between India and Vietnam as of December 2025, despite proposals being discussed by Vietnamese authorities. However, the good news is that Vietnam offers multiple convenient visa options specifically designed for Indian travelers, including a fully online e-visa system that takes just 3-7 business days to process.
Exception: Indian travelers visiting only Phu Quoc Island directly from a country outside Vietnam and departing to another country can enter without a visa for up to 30 days. This special exemption applies only to Phu Quoc and does not extend to mainland Vietnam.
Indian passport holders have three primary visa options when traveling to Vietnam. Each option has distinct advantages depending on your travel plans, timeline, and entry points.
The Vietnam e-visa is the most convenient and widely used option among Indian travelers. According to official immigration data, approximately 80% of Indian visitors (about 501,427 people) chose the e-visa in 2024, making it the preferred method for hassle-free entry.
Key Features:
Why Choose E-Visa: The e-visa eliminates the need for embassy visits, physical document submissions, or waiting at airport visa counters. You receive your approved visa electronically via email, which you simply print and present upon arrival. This makes it ideal for tourists, business travelers, and those visiting friends and family.
Important Note: The e-visa allows you to enter and exit Vietnam through any of the 42 designated international border gates. However, the Indian Embassy has noted that some Indian nationals face difficulties when attempting to exit via land borders to neighboring countries. Always verify your exit point is e-visa compatible before planning overland travel to Cambodia, Laos, or China.
Visa on arrival is an alternative option for Indian travelers entering Vietnam through international airports. Despite its name, this visa requires advance preparation before your flight.
Key Features:
How VOA Works:
When to Choose VOA:
Drawback: You'll need to queue at the visa-on-arrival counter at the airport, which can take 30-45 minutes during peak hours, unlike e-visa holders who proceed directly to immigration.
The traditional visa sticker obtained through the Vietnamese Embassy in New Delhi or Consulates General in other Indian cities remains an option, particularly for longer stays or special visa categories.
Key Features:
Visa Types Available:
When to Choose Embassy Visa:
The e-visa application process is straightforward and can be completed entirely online in about 15-20 minutes. Here's your complete guide to applying successfully.
Passport Requirements:
Required Documents:
Visit the official Vietnam e-visa website at evisa.gov.vn. Be cautious of third-party websites that may charge additional fees. The official government portal is the most cost-effective option.
Browser Compatibility: The portal works best with Chrome, Firefox, or Edge browsers. If the page loads in Vietnamese, click "English" in the upper-right corner.
Fill out the application form with accurate information in English. The form includes:
Personal Information:
Travel Information:
Additional Information:
Important Tips:
Upload clear, high-quality images of:
Photo Specifications:
Carefully review all entered information before submission. Once submitted, you cannot edit the application. Verify:
Pay the government fee through the secure payment gateway:
Payment methods accepted: Visa, Mastercard, or bank transfer. The fee is non-refundable, even if your visa application is denied.
Save Your Receipt: After payment, save the payment confirmation and application reference number. You'll need this to track your application status.
Processing typically takes 3-7 business days (Monday-Friday, excluding Vietnamese public holidays). To check your application status:
Processing Timeline:
Vietnamese Public Holidays to Consider:
Applications submitted before holidays may experience delays. Apply at least 2 weeks before your travel date to avoid issues.
Once approved, you'll receive your e-visa via email as a PDF document. The e-visa includes:
Important Actions:
At Vietnam Immigration: Present your printed e-visa and passport at the immigration counter. The officer will verify your visa, stamp your passport, and allow entry. No additional fees are required at the airport for e-visa holders.
Understanding the complete cost structure helps you budget accurately for your Vietnam trip. Here's a detailed breakdown of all visa-related expenses.
Visa Type | Validity | Entries | Government Fee | INR Equivalent |
E-Visa Tourist | Up to 90 days | Single Entry | USD 25 | ₹2,100 |
E-Visa Tourist | Up to 90 days | Multiple Entry | USD 50 | ₹4,200 |
E-Visa Business | Up to 90 days | Single Entry | USD 25 | ₹2,100 |
E-Visa Business | Up to 90 days | Multiple Entry | USD 50 | ₹4,200 |
If you apply through a visa agency for convenience or fast-track processing:
Service Type | Processing Time | Total Cost (INR) |
Standard E-Visa Processing | 5-7 working days | ₹6,545 |
Urgent Processing | 2 working days | ₹9,409 |
Super Urgent Processing | 1 working day | ₹10,636 |
Emergency Processing | 4 working hours | ₹12,272 |
Component | Cost |
Approval Letter (via agency) | ₹3,000-6,500 |
Stamping Fee at Airport (Single Entry) | USD 25 (₹2,100) |
Stamping Fee at Airport (Multiple Entry) | USD 50 (₹4,200) |
Total Cost | ₹5,100-10,700 |
Visa Type | Duration | Entry Type | Fee (INR) |
Tourist Visa | 30 days | Single Entry | ₹2,200-2,500 |
Tourist Visa | 30 days | Multiple Entry | ₹4,600-5,500 |
Business Visa | 1 month | Single Entry | ₹3,000 |
Business Visa | 3 months | Single Entry | ₹4,200 |
Business Visa | 1 month | Multiple Entry | ₹5,500 |
Business Visa | 3 months | Multiple Entry | ₹6,000 |
Business Visa | 6 months | Multiple Entry | ₹11,300 |
Service | Cost (INR) |
Airport Fast Track Service | ₹6,500-8,000 |
Visa Extension (in Vietnam) | ₹6,500-13,000 |
Visa Consultation Services | ₹1,000-2,500 |
Money-Saving Tips:
Drawing from thousands of successful applications and traveler experiences, here are insider tips to ensure your Vietnam visa process is seamless.
If you find any errors, contact immigration immediately. Do not travel with an incorrect e-visa.
Obtaining a Vietnam visa as an Indian citizen is a straightforward process when you have the right information and follow the proper steps. Whether you choose the convenient e-visa option, the flexible visa-on-arrival, or the traditional embassy visa, Vietnam's diverse visa options cater to different travel needs and timelines.
Vietnam offers Indian travelers an incredible blend of experiences:
Vietnam is increasingly recognizing India as a key tourism market, with infrastructure and services improving to cater to Indian travelers. The visa process, while mandatory, is designed to be accessible and efficient. By following this guide, you're well-equipped to navigate the visa application successfully and focus on planning your exciting Vietnam adventure.
Remember, the visa is just the first step. Once you arrive in Vietnam, you'll discover why this Southeast Asian gem has captured the hearts of millions of travelers worldwide. From the bustling streets of Hanoi to the serene beaches of Phu Quoc, from the historic charm of Hoi An to the modern energy of Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam promises experiences that will stay with you long after you return home.
Ready to start your Vietnam journey? Apply for your e-visa today and get ready for an unforgettable adventure!
Disclaimer: Visa regulations can change without notice. Always verify current requirements through official Vietnam government sources before applying. This guide is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice.
Last Updated: December 2025
Content Accuracy: This comprehensive guide was researched and compiled using official government sources, embassy information, and verified traveler experiences to provide Indian citizens with accurate, up-to-date information about Vietnam visa requirements and application processes.
Expert Contributors: BTW Visas experts team with 15+ years of industry experience, with a 99% visa success rate, and have processed more than 4 lakh+ Visas.
Q1: Is Vietnam visa-free for Indian passport holders?
No, Indian citizens require a visa to enter Vietnam. There is no visa-free arrangement between India and Vietnam as of December 2025. The only exception is the Phu Quoc Island exemption, which allows Indians to visit Phu Quoc for up to 30 days without a visa if arriving directly from outside Vietnam and departing to another country.
Q2: How long does it take to get a Vietnam visa from India?
Standard e-visa processing takes 3-7 business days. Visa-on-arrival approval letters take 2-5 working days. Embassy visas take 10-14 working days. Fast-track services can process visas in 4-8 hours for an additional fee.
Q3: What is the cost of a Vietnam visa for Indians?
The official e-visa costs USD 25 (₹2,100) for single-entry and USD 50 (₹4,200) for multiple-entry, valid for up to 90 days. Agency services charge ₹6,500-12,000 depending on processing speed.
Q4: Can I get a Vietnam visa on arrival as an Indian citizen?
Yes, but "visa on arrival" is a misnomer. You must obtain a pre-approved visa letter from a licensed agency before traveling. Upon arrival at a Vietnamese airport, you present this letter and pay a stamping fee to receive your visa. This option is only available at airports, not land borders or seaports.
Q5: Which is better: e-visa or visa on arrival?
E-visa is generally better for most travelers because:
Choose visa-on-arrival only if you need weekend processing or same-day emergency service.
Q6: Can I apply for a Vietnam e-visa online from India?
Yes, you can apply for a Vietnam e-visa entirely online through the official portal evisa.gov.vn. The process takes 15-20 minutes and requires a valid passport, digital photo, and credit/debit card for payment.
Q7: What documents do I need for a Vietnam visa application?
Required documents:
Q8: Can I apply for a Vietnam visa without a confirmed flight ticket?
Yes, you don't need a confirmed flight ticket to apply for an e-visa. You only need to provide your intended entry and exit dates. However, you should have a flight ticket before traveling as airlines and immigration may ask to see it.
Q9: How do I check my Vietnam e-visa application status?
Visit evisa.gov.vn, click "Check e-Visa Status," and enter your application reference number and email address. You can check status as many times as needed during the processing period.
Q10: What if my Vietnam visa application is rejected?
Visa rejections are rare (less than 5%) and usually occur due to:
If rejected, the fee is non-refundable. You can reapply after correcting the issues. Contact Vietnam Immigration for specific rejection reasons.
Q11: How long can I stay in Vietnam with an e-visa?
The Vietnam e-visa allows stays of up to 90 days from your entry date. You can choose any duration up to 90 days when applying. Single-entry visas allow one entry, while multiple-entry visas allow unlimited entries within the 90-day validity period.
Q12: Can I extend my Vietnam visa while in Vietnam?
Yes, visa extensions are possible but must be applied for at least 7-10 days before your current visa expires. Extensions cost USD 50-100 and can extend your stay by 30-90 days. Apply through Vietnam Immigration Department offices in major cities or through a visa agency.
Q13: Can I enter Vietnam multiple times with a single-entry visa?
No, a single-entry visa allows only one entry into Vietnam. Once you exit Vietnam, the visa becomes invalid even if the validity period hasn't expired. If you plan to visit neighboring countries and return to Vietnam, apply for a multiple-entry visa.
Q14: What happens if I overstay my Vietnam visa?
Overstaying results in:
Always exit before your visa expires or apply for an extension in advance.
Q15: Can I work in Vietnam with a tourist e-visa?
No, tourist visas do not permit employment or business activities. If you need to work in Vietnam, you must apply for a work visa (LD) or business visa (DN) through the Vietnamese embassy, which requires an invitation letter from your employer or business partner.
Q16: Which airports in Vietnam accept e-visa?
All 13 international airports in Vietnam accept e-visa:
Q17: Can I use e-visa to enter Vietnam by land from Cambodia or Laos?
Yes, e-visa is valid at 16 land border crossings. However, the Indian Embassy has noted that some Indian travelers face difficulties exiting Vietnam via land borders. Verify your specific border crossing accepts e-visa before planning overland travel. Major land borders include:
Q18: Do I need to print my e-visa or can I show it on my phone?
You must print your e-visa. Airlines and immigration officers require a physical printed copy. Digital copies on phones or tablets are not accepted. Print at least 2-3 copies as backup.
Q19: What is the Phu Quoc visa exemption for Indians?
Indian citizens can visit Phu Quoc Island for up to 30 days without a visa if:
If you want to visit mainland Vietnam from Phu Quoc, you need a regular visa.
Q20: Can I change my entry point after receiving my e-visa?
No, your e-visa is valid only for the entry and exit points specified in your application. If your travel plans change, you must apply for a new e-visa with the correct entry point. The original visa fee is non-refundable.
Q21: I have a US visa. Do I still need a Vietnam visa?
Yes, having a valid US visa (or visa from any other country) does not exempt Indian passport holders from Vietnam visa requirements. You must obtain a Vietnam visa regardless of other visas in your passport.
Q22: Can I get a Vietnam visa if I have a criminal record?
Vietnam visa applications don't typically ask about criminal records for tourist visas. However, serious criminal convictions may result in entry denial at immigration. If you have concerns, consult with the Vietnamese embassy before applying.
Q23: Do I need a visa for a transit stop in Vietnam?
If you're on a connecting flight and remain in the international transit area without passing through immigration, you don't need a visa. However, if you have separate tickets, need to collect and recheck baggage, or want to leave the airport, you must obtain a visa.
Q24: Can I apply for a Vietnam visa if my passport expires in 7 months?
Yes, as long as your passport is valid for at least 6 months beyond your arrival date in Vietnam. If your passport expires in 7 months and you're traveling next month, you meet the requirement.
Q25: What should I do if I lose my passport while in Vietnam?
Immediately:
Q26: Is the Vietnam visa fee refundable if I cancel my trip?
No, the e-visa fee is non-refundable once paid, even if you don't travel or your application is rejected. Only apply when you're certain about your travel plans.
Q27: Can I pay the e-visa fee in Indian Rupees?
The official portal charges in USD, but your credit/debit card will automatically convert the amount to INR at your bank's exchange rate. The approximate cost is ₹2,100 for single-entry and ₹4,200 for multiple-entry.
Q28: Are there any hidden charges for Vietnam e-visa?
No, the official portal (evisa.gov.vn) charges only the government fee (USD 25 or 50). However, visa agencies charge service fees (₹3,000-10,000) on top of the government fee. Always check the total cost before paying.
Q29: Do children pay the same visa fee as adults?
Yes, visa fees are the same for all ages, including infants and children. Each family member needs a separate visa application and payment.
Q30: What payment methods are accepted for Vietnam e-visa?
The official portal accepts:
Ensure your card is enabled for international transactions before applying.
First of all, you need a legitimate reason to get your permit extended. It must be convincing to the authorities. Application for an extension can be made to the Vietnamese Immigration. If you have an online permit, printed copies of the visa must be submitted along with the copies of your passport and other requirements. After the payment of the fee, the request will be processed and you will be granted with an extension depending on the type of permit. Make sure to apply for an extension within the expiration of your permit.
A medical test is a health examination performed by an authorized doctor to ensure that the applicant does not possess any kind of contagious diseases. These do not just include HIV/AIDS, but also other contagious diseases that can spread. However, this medical test is not necessarily required for all kinds of visa. These are mandated for the long term visas and may not be compulsory for all types of short term visas.
The amount that is required in your savings bank account is not specified clearly by the Vietnamese Immigration. There may be requirements as per the type of your visa and whether the permit is a long term or a short term type. You may need to confirm this information once you know what kind of visa you require. The requirements may change based on several factors.
This depends on the processing time of the visa for Vietnam. For an online permit, the processing time is 3 days and you can apply for the permit at least a week before the intended date of travel. If you have applied offline, it will take about 10 days, therefore, it is only safer to apply at least a couple of weeks before the date of arrival.
The rejection percentage known for the Vietnam visa for Indians has not been high. Generally, the visa will be provided online. If not, it can be applied for offline to the Embassy of Vietnam.
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