The Vietnamese government requires most foreign travelers to obtain a Vietnam visa before entering the country. You must secure this official travel document before your trip begins. The immigration department updated several entry policies for 2026, making travel easier than ever. This guide outlines the newest exemption rules, explains the universal e-visa system, and shows you how to prepare your documents for a seamless Halong Bay cruise vacation.
2026 Vietnam Visa Exemption Policies
The government allows citizens from specific nations to enter Vietnam without a visa for set periods. You must verify your eligibility based on your passport nationality. The immigration authorities grant the following exemptions to international travelers this year:
| Exemption Duration | Eligible Nationalities |
|---|---|
| 45 Days | United Kingdom, France, Germany, Italy, Spain, Belarus, Japan, South Korea, Sweden, Norway, Russia, Denmark, Finland, Belgium, Bulgaria, Croatia, Czech Republic, Hungary, Luxembourg, Netherlands, Poland, Romania, Slovakia, Slovenia, Switzerland. |
| 30 Days | Thailand, Malaysia, Singapore, Indonesia, Cambodia, Kyrgyzstan, Laos. |
| 21 Days | Philippines. |
| 14 Days | Brunei. |
| 90 Days | Chile, Panama. |
Travelers flying directly to Phu Quoc Island enjoy a special 30-day exemption. You qualify for this waiver if you arrive straight to the island through an international border gate. If you plan to leave the island to take a cruise in Halong Bay, you must apply for a standard visa beforehand.
How to Apply for the 90-Day Vietnam E-Visa
The immigration department now offers the electronic visa e-visa to citizens of all countries and territories. This digital document permits single or multiple entries for up to 90 days. You submit your application online through the official Ministry of Public Security portal.
You pay a non-refundable processing fee through a secure electronic gateway. Single-entry visas cost $25 USD, while multiple-entry visas cost $50 USD. The department processes most applications within three to five business days. Once officials approve your request, you print the document and present it to border control agents.
The e-visa provides maximum flexibility for your travel itinerary. You can enter the country through 13 international airports, 16 land border gates, and 13 maritime ports. Hon Gai Seaport and Hai Phong Seaport accept the e-visa, making it the perfect choice for cruise passengers.
Vietnam Visa on Arrival: Airport Processing Requirements
You can choose the Visa On Arrival if you fly directly into major international airports like Noi Bai in Hanoi or Tan Son Nhat in Ho Chi Minh City. You must obtain a Visa Approval Letter before you board your flight.
Some travel agencies, such as Vietnam Tour, process this paperwork for their clients. The consultants submit your details to the immigration office and send the approval letter to your email. You present this letter, a completed visa form, and a passport photo at the airport counter. You pay the stamping fee in cash directly to the immigration officers.
Special Visa Fees for Specific Nationalities
The immigration department charges a special $70 USD processing fee for citizens holding passports from specific countries. We outline these nationalities in the table below to help you calculate your travel costs accurately:
| Afghanistan | Gambia | Lebanon | Rwanda |
| Albania | Ghana | Libya | Saudi Arabia |
| Algeria | Guinea | Morocco | Senegal |
| Bangladesh | Honduras | Mozambique | Sri Lanka |
| Bhutan | India | Namibia | Sudan |
| Cameroon | Iran | Nepal | Syria |
| Egypt | Iraq | Pakistan | Turkey |
| Fiji | Jordan | Palestine | United Arab Emirates |
| Kenya | Kuwait | Peru | Zambia |
Frequently Asked Questions FAQ
Do I need a visa to go on a Halong Bay cruise?
You need a valid travel document to take a Halong Bay cruise unless your passport nationality qualifies for a visa exemption. You must secure this approval before you arrive at the cruise port.
Which airport should I fly into for a Halong Bay trip?
You should fly into Noi Bai International Airport in Hanoi or Cat Bi International Airport in Hai Phong. Both airports accept the e-visa and provide easy transfer routes directly to the Halong Bay marinas.
Can I get a visa on arrival at the cruise port?
Port authorities do not issue visas on arrival at maritime ports. Officials only accept pre-approved e-visas or traditional embassy visas. You must apply for the e-visa online if you arrive in Vietnam via an international cruise ship.
Book Your Dream Vacation with Luxury Halong Cruises
You can easily manage your travel documents using the modern electronic system. Our team helps you coordinate your arrival dates with our sailing schedules to ensure a stress-free journey. Explore our exclusive itineraries on our website and contact our dedicated staff to book your unforgettable Halong Bay experience today.
Updated on 2026-03-19 08:14:31.