Vietnam Visa Guide For Indians: How To Apply, Cost And Other Details

With its mist-shrouded limestone karsts in Ha Long Bay, vibrant street food scenes in Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City, and ancient lantern-lit streets in Hoi An, Vietnam stands as one of the most popular travel destinations for Indian tourists. The application process is completely digital. Indian passport holders can secure an electronic visa (e-Visa) directly online without mailing physical documents or visiting an embassy. Here is an easy-breezy unstumbled Vietnam visa guide for Indians who are looking to visit this beautiful country.

Do Indians Need A Visa To Visit Vietnam?

While a few select nationalities enjoy visa-free entry, India is not on the visa exemption list. However, Indian travelers can apply for the Vietnam e-Visa online, which is valid for up to 90 days for single or multiple entries.

Island Exemption Exception

If you fly directly to Phu Quoc Island via an international flight (or transit through a Vietnamese international airport without passing immigration), Indian travelers can stay visa-free on Phu Quoc for up to 30 days. If you plan to travel beyond Phu Quoc to mainland Vietnam, a standard e-Visa is required.

Vietnam Visa Guide For Indians: How Much Does It Cost?

The official Vietnam e-Visa fees are fixed by the Vietnam Immigration Department:

It is important to note that the Vietnam e-visa portal charges in US Dollars. Final INR charges depend on your card provider’s foreign conversion rate. Government fees are strictly non-refundable even if your application is rejected.

Avoid Scammy Sites That Markup Visa Cost

Third-party agency portals often charge anywhere from $70 to $120 for a standard tourist e-Visa. Unless you urgently require specialized agency “fast-track” services, always apply directly on the official portal to pay only the standard $25 or $50 fee.

What Documents Do You Need To Apply For Vietnam Visa?

Before opening the portal, ensure you have digital soft copies of the following items saved on your device:

• Passport Scan: Clear JPEG scan of your passport’s bio-data page (valid for at least six months beyond your arrival date).
• Portrait Photograph: Passport-sized digital photo (4 x 6 cm) with a plain white background, front-facing, with no glasses or headwear.
• Travel Details: Intended travel dates, entry/exit checkpoints (e.g., Hanoi Noi Bai Airport or Da Nang Airport), and your initial hotel address in Vietnam.
• International Debit/Credit Card: Enabled for international online USD transactions.

How To Apply For Vietnam Visa? Step-By-Step Guide

Applying for your e-Visa takes approximately 10 to 15 minutes. Follow this execution protocol to submit your application without errors:

1. Access Official Portal: Visit The Official Government System

Navigate directly to the official portal at evisa.gov.vn (or thithucdientu.gov.vn). Check the browser bar to confirm you are on a “.gov.vn” domain. Click on “Apply for e-Visa”.

2. Photo And Bio-Data Verification: Upload Documents And Verify Pre-filled Info

Upload your 4 x 6 cm portrait photo and clear passport page scan. The OCR system will auto-extract your details. Carefully check every field against your passport, especially full name, ICAO line, date of birth, and passport number.

3. Itinerary And Entry Port Selection: Enter Travel Info And Port of Entry

Select your entry type (Single or Multiple) and valid start date. Select your exact Port of Entry (e.g., Noi Bai Int Airport – Hanoi or Tan Son Nhat Int Airport – HCMC). You must enter through a designated border gate from the official approved list.

4. Registration Code And Payment: Pay Application Fee And Save Code

Submit the form and pay the $25 USD (single-entry) or $50 USD (multiple-entry) fee using your card. Save your 14-character Registration Code displayed on the confirmation screen; you will need this to search for and download your approved visa.

5. Three To Five Working Days Processing: Check Status And Print Approval PDF

After three to five working days, return to the website. Input your registration code, email, and date of birth to download your e-Visa PDF. Print two physical copies to present at immigration upon arrival.

E-Visa VS Visa On Arrival: How Are They Different And Which Is Better?

While standard e-Visas have rendered traditional options mostly obsolete, here is how the available methods compare for Indian passport holders:

Also Read: Is Vietnam Cheaper Than Thailand For Indians? Cost Comparison Guide

Summing Up

Securing a Vietnam visa for Indians is simple, fast, and fully digital. By applying through the official government portal at least 10 to 12 days before your flight, you can avoid markup fees and ensure a smooth start to your vacation.

FAQs

Can I Apply For A Vietnam E-Visa Without Confirmed Flight Tickets?

Yes. Flight tickets are not mandatory for the application. However, you’ll need to provide your intended entry point, expected arrival date, and the address of your first accommodation in Vietnam.

Do I Need To Print My Vietnam E-Visa?

Yes. Although the e-Visa is issued electronically, carrying at least one printed copy along with your passport is recommended, as airlines and immigration officers may ask to see it.

Can I Enter Vietnam Through Any Airport With An E-Visa?

No. You must enter and exit Vietnam through one of the designated international airports, land border crossings, or seaports that accept e-Visas. Ensure the port you select during your application matches your travel plans.

Is Visa On Arrival Still Available For Indian Travellers?

Visa on Arrival is not a standalone visa option. It requires obtaining a pre-approved visa approval letter before travelling and is available only at eligible international airports. For most tourists, the official e-Visa is the more straightforward and recommended option.

Can I Extend My Vietnam E-Visa After Arriving?

Vietnam does not offer a guaranteed e-Visa extension process for tourists. If you wish to stay longer than your approved visa period, you should check the latest immigration rules before travelling or apply for an appropriate visa duration from the outset.