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Visa to Vietnam

Whether you need a visa to travel to Vietnam depends on your nationality and the purpose of your visit. It's important to check the specific visa requirements based on your nationality and the purpose of your visit to Vietnam before planning your trip. Here's a general overview:

Visa Exemption

Some countries have agreements with Vietnam that allow their citizens to enter for a certain period without a visa. The duration of stay and conditions vary depending on the nationality.

Visa on Arrival (VOA)

For travelers who are not eligible for visa exemption, Vietnam offers a visa on arrival option. This involves obtaining a pre-approved visa letter online before arrival and then obtaining the actual visa stamp upon arrival at one of the international airports in Vietnam.

E-Visa

Vietnam also offers an electronic visa (e-visa) option for citizens of certain countries. The e-visa application is done online, and upon approval, travelers receive an electronic visa that allows entry into Vietnam.

Regular Visa

Some travelers may need to apply for a visa through the Vietnamese embassy or consulate in their home country before traveling to Vietnam. This typically applies to those who do not qualify for visa exemption or the VOA or e-visa options.

Transportation

The most popular modes of transportation for visitors in Vietnam include

Motorbikes/Scooters

Motorbikes and scooters are ubiquitous in Vietnam and offer flexibility and convenience for getting around cities and exploring rural areas. Many visitors opt to rent motorbikes or join guided motorbike tours to experience the country's landscapes and culture up close.

Taxis and Ride-Hailing Services

Taxis are readily available in urban areas like Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, and Da Nang. Ride-hailing services like Grab are also popular and often more convenient, especially for longer journeys or when navigating language barriers.

Cyclos and Pedicabs

Cyclos (three-wheeled bicycles with a passenger seat) and pedicabs are traditional modes of transportation in Vietnam, particularly in tourist areas. They offer a unique way to experience the sights and sounds of cities like Hanoi and Hue.

Public Buses

Public buses are a budget-friendly option for traveling between cities and provinces in Vietnam. While they may not be as comfortable or convenient as other modes of transportation, they provide an authentic local experience.

Trains

Vietnam has an extensive railway network that connects major cities and tourist destinations. Traveling by train offers a comfortable and scenic way to explore the country, with options ranging from budget-friendly seats to luxurious sleeper cabins.

Domestic Flights

For longer distances or when time is limited, domestic flights are a convenient option. Vietnam has several domestic airlines offering flights between major cities, including Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, Da Nang, and Hue.

Safety for traveling Vietnam

Petty theft

Vietnam is a relatively safe country, however petty theft is a legitimate concern, especially in the big cities. Refrain from extending cameras and cellphones on busy streets and corners: most robberies are drive-by snatchings. When taking pictures on sidewalks, keep your camera close to your body and away from the flow of traffic. Women in particular should be warned to keep a tight grip on their bags and purses when walking in Ho Chi Minh City. When riding a motorcycle, place your bags in the seat compartment or hook them in the front of the bike. Bags carried around the shoulder or in bike baskets can easily be snatched.

Taxi scams

Taxi scams in Vietnam take the form of rigged meters, overcharging, confusing currency and fixed prices. Two trusted companies you can rely on are Mai Linh and Vinasun. Both of these taxi companies have new vehicles and sealed metres, they also have a pick-up service that works in most Vietnamese towns and cities. You can look for them as soon as you land in Vietnam's international airports.

For Female Travellers

Vietnam is generally a safe country to travel and female travellers will find themselves welcome. The Vietnamese are still quite conservative, so it's best to respect the local culture by not baring too much skin. Solo female travellers can expect to be approached with questions about why they are travelling alone. The enquiries are usually harmless and borne out of curiousity. Crime against women is uncommon in Vietnam. Nonetheless it's wise to not be alone on the streets late at night, and to take a taxi if you're heading back late.