Do Indians Need a Visa for Vietnam?
Planning a Vietnam trip from India? One of the most common questions travelers ask is whether they need a visa and how the application process works.
Many travelers find conflicting information online. Some websites discuss e-Visas, others mention visa on arrival, while some refer to embassy applications. This often makes the process seem more complicated than it actually is.
The good news is that the Vietnam e-Visa process is straightforward for Indian travelers. Applications are completed online, and most tourists receive approval within a few working days when all documents are submitted correctly.
Whether you’re planning a trip to Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, Da Nang, Phu Quoc, or a complete Vietnam itinerary, understanding the visa process in advance helps avoid last-minute travel issues.
In this guide, we’ll cover Vietnam visa requirements for Indians, e-Visa fees, required documents, processing times, validity rules, and the complete application process.
Do Indians Need a Visa for Vietnam?
Yes. Indian passport holders need a visa before entering Vietnam.
Unlike some destinations where visa is issued on arrival automatically, Vietnam requires travelers to get visa approval in advance.
Quick Summary
Vietnam Visa Quick Summary for Indians
Visa Requirement
Required for Indian passport holders
Application Method
Vietnam e-Visa or Embassy Visa
Stay Duration
Usually up to 30 days
Processing Time
Around 3–5 working days
Types of Vietnam Visas for Indians
There are a few visa options available for Indian travelers. Most tourists choose the Vietnam e-Visa because it’s quick and fully online.
For regular holidays, honeymoon trips, or family travel, the e-Visa option is the easiest.
Vietnam e-Visa (Most Popular Option)
Most Indian travelers apply for the Vietnam e-Visa.
It’s an online visa issued electronically by Vietnamese immigration authorities.
Here’s why travelers prefer it:
- Entire application is completed online
- No need to visit embassy
- Visa approval is sent by email
- Simple process for tourists
Once approved, you just print the visa and show it at immigration when you arrive in Vietnam.
Visa on Arrival for Indians
Visa on arrival is another option, but it works differently from Bali.
This visa is only available for travelers arriving by air, and you must obtain an approval letter before traveling.
Without this approval letter, airlines may not allow boarding.
Because of this extra step, most travelers prefer the Vietnam e-Visa instead of visa on arrival.
Planning your Vietnam trip soon?
Download our Vietnam Travel Planning Checklist to make sure you don’t forget important things like visa documents, travel insurance, currency preparation, and airport tips.
Vietnam Visa Requirements for Indians
Before applying for the visa, travelers should prepare a few documents.
Keeping these ready will make the application process smoother.
Documents Required for Vietnam e-Visa
- Passport with minimum 6 months validity
- Passport-size photograph
- Passport bio page scan
- Travel details such as arrival airport and travel dates
One important thing to note — if the photo format is incorrect, visa approval can be delayed.
So make sure your uploaded photo is clear and follows the correct format.
Step-by-Step Process to Apply Vietnam Visa
Applying for the Vietnam visa online is quite simple. Here’s how the process works.
Step 1: Visit Official Vietnam e-Visa Portal
Go to the official Vietnam e-Visa website to begin the application.
Step 2: Fill Application Form
Enter the required details such as:
- full name
- passport details
- nationality
- travel dates
- entry airport
Double-check all information before submitting.
Step 3: Upload Documents
You will need to upload:
- passport scan
- passport photo
Make sure the image quality is clear and readable.
Step 4: Pay Visa Fee
After uploading documents, you will pay the visa fee online.
Payment is usually done using international debit or credit card.
Step 5: Receive e-Visa by Email
Once the application is approved, you will receive your e-Visa by email.
Typical processing time is 3–5 working days.
Print the visa and carry it when traveling to Vietnam.
Not sure if your visa documents are correct?
Our travel team can review your visa application before submission and help you avoid common mistakes.
Vietnam Visa Fees for Indians
One of the most common questions travelers ask is the visa cost.
Here is the typical visa fee structure.
Vietnam Visa Fees for Indians
One of the most common questions travelers ask is how much a Vietnam visa costs. While fees can vary slightly, the options below cover the typical costs for Indian travelers.
Vietnam e-Visa
Best for most tourists. Apply online before traveling and receive approval electronically.
Visa on Arrival
Available for eligible air travelers with the required approval documentation.
Fees may vary slightly depending on the service provider or visa processing service used.
Vietnam Visa Processing Time
Another important question is how long the visa takes.
Typical processing time:
3–5 working days
However, it’s always safer to apply at least 1–2 weeks before travel to avoid last-minute issues.
This also gives time to correct any mistakes if needed.
Vietnam Visa FAQs for Indian Travelers
Yes. Indian passport holders generally need a valid visa before entering Vietnam. Most tourists choose the Vietnam e-Visa because the application process can be completed online.
The Vietnam e-Visa is the easiest option for most Indian travelers. It allows you to apply online, upload documents, pay the fee, and receive approval electronically.
The standard Vietnam e-Visa fee is usually around USD 25, although additional charges may apply if you use a visa processing agency.
Most Vietnam e-Visa applications are processed within 3–5 working days. During peak travel seasons, processing may take slightly longer.
Indian travelers typically need a passport valid for at least six months, a passport-style photograph, passport details, and travel information when applying for a Vietnam e-Visa.
Visa on Arrival may be available for eligible travelers arriving by air with prior approval documents. However, most tourists prefer the simpler e-Visa option.
The permitted stay depends on the visa issued. Many tourists receive visas suitable for short-term leisure travel, while longer stays may require different visa arrangements.
Requirements may vary depending on the application type. Many travelers provide their planned arrival information during the visa application process.
It is recommended to apply at least one to two weeks before departure to allow sufficient time for processing and any unexpected delays.
Yes. Applications may be rejected if there are incorrect passport details, incomplete documents, unclear photographs, or other eligibility issues.
Common Vietnam Visa Mistakes Indian Travelers Make
Many visa problems happen because of small mistakes during application.
Here are some common issues travelers face:
- incorrect passport scan
- photo not matching visa format
- wrong travel dates
- passport validity less than 6 months
Checking these details before submitting the application can prevent visa delays.
To avoid these mistakes, download our Vietnam Visa Document Checklist and confirm every requirement before applying.
Frequently Asked Questions About Vietnam Visa for Indians
Yes, but only if travelers have an approval letter before traveling and arrive by air.
Most tourist visas allow stay up to 30 days.
Yes. Visa extension is possible through immigration offices or visa agents.
Yes. Immigration officers may ask for proof of onward or return travel.
There is no official minimum amount, but travelers should have enough funds to support their trip if asked.
When Should Indians Apply for Vietnam Visa?
Even though the process is online, travelers should apply 1–2 weeks before travel.
This allows enough time for:
- visa processing
- document corrections if needed
- travel planning without stress
Planning a Vietnam trip soon?
Our travel experts can help with visa guidance, itinerary planning, and bookings.
