Vietnam Tourist Entry
Visa Exemption / e-Visa · For United Kingdom citizens
Planning a trip to Vietnam as a UK citizen? You can enter Vietnam visa-free for up to 45 days for tourism. For longer stays up to 90 days, apply for an e-visa online for $25 (single entry) or $50 (multiple entry). This guide covers both options and helps you choose the right one for your trip.
Vietnam Visa for UK Citizens (2025) - Document Checklist
For United Kingdom citizens · VisaBeat.com
Document Checklist
Your UK passport must be valid for at least 6 months from your date of entry
Proof you will leave Vietnam within your allowed stay period
Recommended (Optional)
Recent passport-style photo for e-visa application
Entry Options for UK Citizens
British passport holders have two main options for visiting Vietnam:1
1. Visa-Free Entry (Recommended for Short Trips)
UK citizens can enter Vietnam without a visa for stays up to 45 days.1
- Cost: Free
- Stay: Up to 45 days
- No advance application needed
- Just arrive with valid passport
2. E-Visa (For Longer Stays)
For stays between 45-90 days, apply for an e-visa online.1
- Single entry: $25, up to 90 days
- Multiple entry: $50, up to 90 days
- Processing: 3-7 working days
Which Option Should You Choose?
| Trip Length | Recommended Option | Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Under 45 days | Visa-free entry | Free |
| 45-90 days | E-visa (single) | $25 |
| Multiple trips | E-visa (multiple) | $50 |
| Business + tourism | E-visa (multiple) | $50 |
Visa-Free Entry Requirements
For visa-free entry, bring:2
- UK passport with 6+ months validity
- Return or onward ticket within 45 days
- Proof of accommodation (if asked)
No advance application or registration needed. Simply arrive at any Vietnam international airport or border crossing.
E-Visa Application Process
If you need an e-visa:1
Step 1: Prepare Documents
- UK passport scan (data page)
- Digital photo (4x6 cm, white background)
- Travel dates and entry port
Step 2: Apply Online
- Visit evisa.xuatnhapcanh.gov.vn
- Complete application form
- Upload documents
- Pay $25 or $50
Step 3: Wait for Approval
- Processing: 3-7 working days
- Download and print approved e-visa
Fees
| Entry Type | Cost | Stay |
|---|---|---|
| Visa-free | Free | 45 days |
| E-visa (single) | $25 | 90 days |
| E-visa (multiple) | $50 | 90 days |
Entry Points
Both visa-free and e-visa entry available at:1
- All international airports (Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, Da Nang, etc.)
- Major land borders
- Seaports
Extending Your Stay
Visa-free entry: Cannot be extended. You must leave Vietnam before 45 days or apply for an e-visa from outside Vietnam.
E-visa: Can be extended once at a local immigration office for approximately $25. Apply before your visa expires.
At Immigration
Present to Vietnamese immigration:
- UK passport
- E-visa printout (if applicable)
- Return ticket (may be requested)
Immigration will stamp your passport with entry date and allowed stay duration.
Common Rejection Reasons
Based on official refusal data for this corridor
Passport Validity Issues
Passport does not have 6 months validity from entry date.
How to avoid: Check your passport expiry date. Renew if it expires within 6 months of your return date.
Exceeded Visa-Free Stays
Attempting to use visa-free entry too frequently or staying beyond 45 days.
How to avoid: Vietnam tracks visa-free entries. For frequent visits, apply for an e-visa instead.
Photo Quality Issues (e-Visa)
Photo does not meet requirements for e-visa application.
How to avoid: Use a visa photo app to ensure correct dimensions and white background.
No Return Ticket
Cannot show proof of leaving Vietnam within allowed stay period.
How to avoid: Book a return or onward ticket before traveling.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do UK citizens need a visa for Vietnam?
For stays up to 45 days, no visa is required. UK passport holders can enter Vietnam visa-free for tourism. For stays between 45-90 days, you need an e-visa ($25 single entry or $50 multiple entry).
How long can British citizens stay in Vietnam without a visa?
UK citizens can stay up to 45 days in Vietnam without a visa. This visa exemption is for tourism purposes. For longer stays up to 90 days, apply for an e-visa before travel.
What is the Vietnam e-visa fee for UK citizens?
The e-visa costs $25 for single entry or $50 for multiple entry. Apply on the official government portal evisa.xuatnhapcanh.gov.vn to avoid third-party fees.
How long does Vietnam e-visa processing take?
E-visa processing typically takes 3-7 working days. Apply at least 1-2 weeks before travel. During peak seasons, processing may take longer.
Can I extend my stay in Vietnam as a UK citizen?
If you entered visa-free, you cannot extend beyond 45 days without leaving. With an e-visa, you can apply for an extension at a local immigration office before your visa expires.
Should I use visa-free entry or get an e-visa?
For trips under 45 days, visa-free entry is simplest and free. For 45-90 day trips or if you want multiple entries, get an e-visa. E-visa also provides a backup if there are any issues at immigration.