How Long Can I Stay in Vietnam on a Tourist Visa? (2027 Official Update)

Yes, you can get a 3-month tourist visa for Vietnam. The validity of a Vietnamese tourist visa can range from 15 days to 3 months. You can apply for a 3-month tourist visa at a Vietnamese embassy or consulate in your home country, or you can apply for an e-visa online. The e-visa is a convenient option and is now available for citizens of most nationalities. To apply for a 3-month tourist visa, you will need to provide the following documents:

• A passport that is valid for at least six months
• A completed visa application form
• A recent passport-sized photo
• A visa fee

If you are applying for a 3-month tourist visa, you will need to provide additional documents, such as a letter of invitation from a Vietnamese sponsor, a proof of financial support, and a medical certificate.

Citizens of the United States and Canada can now stay in Vietnam for up to 90 days per visit using the standard E-visa, which is available for either single or multiple entries. This is a significant increase from the previous 30-day limit. Important Note on Extensions: Currently, in-country visa extensions are restricted for tourists. If you wish to stay longer than 90 days, you generally cannot extend your visa while inside Vietnam; instead, you must exit the country and re-enter with a new E-visa (commonly known as a 'visa run'). Regarding the 1-year multiple-entry tourist visa for U.S. passport holders: this specific visa type is currently suspended in favor of the universal 90-day E-visa system. However, for any long-term multiple-entry visa holders, the maximum duration for each continuous stay remains 90 days, meaning you must leave Vietnam every 3 months and return to activate a new stay.

Yes, US citizens can obtain a Visa on Arrival (VOA) in Vietnam, but it is not automatic. You cannot simply land at the airport and request a visa; you must obtain a visa approval letter from a local travel agency or tour operator before your flight.

• Requirement: You must present the pre-approval letter, your passport, photos, and a stamping fee (paid in cash) at the "Landing Visa" counter upon arrival.
• Recommendation: Most US travelers in 2027 prefer the E-visa, which is applied for directly online, fast and grants a 90-day stay without needing a third-party agency.

The processing time for a Vietnam visa depends on the method you choose:

• E-Visa: Usually processed within 3 to 5 business days, though it may take longer during peak travel seasons.
• Visa on Arrival: Requires a pre-approval letter, which typically takes 2 to 4 days to obtain; this option is only valid for travelers entering Vietnam by air. If you travel to Vietnam with Vietnam Tour, we will provide the visa approval letter free of charge for you and your group members. However, depending on your nationality, Visa on Arrival (VOA) may not be accepted. Certain nationalities are required to apply through an embassy or use the e-visa system instead. Travelers holding special passports may also use our visa "push service" to increase the approval rate and receive their visa more quickly.
• Embassy/Consulate Visa: Processing generally ranges from 5 to 7 working days, and some embassies may offer expedited services for an additional fee.

It’s recommended to submit your visa application at least 7 to 10 days before your trip to avoid delays and ensure a smooth entry.

If your Vietnam visa application remains in “processing” status, the delay can occur for several reasons. Although the standard timeframe is around 3-5 working days, extended delays are not uncommon. Below are possible causes and what you can do next. Common Reasons for Delays

• High Application Volume: During busy travel periods, a surge in submissions can slow down processing times significantly.
• Incomplete or Incorrect Details: Missing information, mismatched passport data, or unclear uploads can cause your application to be held for review.
• Additional Security Screening: Certain nationalities may undergo extra checks, which can extend the review timeframe.
• System or Technical Errors: Occasional platform issues or maintenance sessions may contribute to unexpected delays.
• Extended Silence (Important Note): If you do not receive any feedback after 5 working days, it’s advisable to contact a local travel agency or licensed tour operator for assistance, as they may help communicate directly with immigration. If your application remains in processing for 7 days or more, the likelihood of the visa being unofficially refused is very high.

Recommended Actions

• Monitor Your Status Frequently: Check your application directly on the official Vietnam e-visa portal. Email notifications are not always sent, so manual checks are essential.
• Reach Out for Assistance: If your application has been pending beyond 7 working days, consider contacting a reputable visa agency or the official support center. Local agencies often have channels to clarify issues or request follow-up from immigration officers.
• Plan Backup Options: If your travel date is approaching, explore alternatives such as Visa on Arrival (VOA) with a pre-approval letter, or inquire about expedited processing through a local provider.
• Consider Timing Factors: Applications submitted late in the week, especially on Fridays, may not begin processing until Monday, effectively adding extra days to the wait.

If your Vietnam e-visa application is still processing, staying proactive is key. Regular status checks and early communication with a trusted travel agency like ViettnamTour.Com can help you navigate delays, understand potential issues, and keep your travel plans on track.