Planning a trip to Vietnam involves more than booking flights, accommodation, and tours. If your nationality requires a visa, understanding the Vietnam visa fee is an important part of preparing your travel budget.

For many international travelers, the Vietnam electronic visa (e-visa) is the most convenient option. Vietnam's e-visa can be issued for up to 90 days and may allow either single or multiple entries. The current government e-visa fee is US$25 for a single-entry visa and US$50 for a multiple-entry visa. The fee is paid electronically during the application process and is generally non-refundable if the application is refused.

This guide explains the Vietnam visa fee in detail, including the difference between government fees and service charges, single-entry versus multiple-entry visas, payment considerations, common mistakes, and how to plan your Vietnam travel budget.

What Is the Vietnam Visa Fee?

The Vietnam visa fee is the amount a traveler must pay to obtain permission to enter Vietnam when a visa is required.

For travelers applying for a Vietnam e-visa, the basic government fees are:

These are the standard government e-visa charges. The Vietnamese Immigration Department states that the e-visa is available for foreigners with valid passports and that applicants pay the fee through the electronic payment system.

The important point for travelers is that the government visa fee and the total amount charged by a private visa service are not necessarily the same thing.

If you apply directly through the government system, you generally pay the applicable government fee. If you use a travel agency or visa-processing company, the company may add its own service charge.

Vietnam E-Visa Fee

The Vietnam e-visa is one of the most convenient visa options for eligible foreign travelers.

Vietnam has expanded its e-visa system to citizens of countries and territories around the world, and the e-visa can be valid for up to 90 days. Travelers can request either a single-entry or multiple-entry visa.

Single-entry Vietnam e-visa fee

The government fee for a single-entry Vietnam e-visa is:

US$25

A single-entry visa allows you to enter Vietnam once during the validity period of the visa.

For example, suppose you plan to travel:

• Hanoi
• Ha Long Bay
• Da Nang
• Hoi An
• Ho Chi Minh City

If all of these destinations are visited during one continuous trip inside Vietnam, a single-entry visa may be sufficient.

You do not need a multiple-entry visa simply because you are visiting several cities within Vietnam. Moving between cities inside the country does not count as leaving and re-entering Vietnam.

Multiple-entry Vietnam e-visa fee

The government fee for a multiple-entry Vietnam e-visa is:

US$50

A multiple-entry visa can be useful when your itinerary involves leaving Vietnam and subsequently returning during the visa's validity period.

For example, an itinerary might look like:

Vietnam → Cambodia → Vietnam

or:

Vietnam → Thailand → Vietnam

In such situations, a multiple-entry visa can be more appropriate than a single-entry visa, assuming your visa remains valid for the planned return.

The multiple-entry option costs twice as much as the single-entry option, but it provides considerably more flexibility for travelers visiting several countries in Southeast Asia.

Does the Vietnam Visa Fee Depend on Nationality?

For the standard e-visa government fee, the main distinction is generally the type of e-visa rather than nationality.

The two principal government e-visa charges are:

• US$25 for single entry
• US$50 for multiple entry

However, travelers should still check the current immigration requirements applicable to their passport before applying. Visa exemptions and other entry arrangements can differ depending on nationality.

A traveler whose nationality is eligible for visa-free entry may not need to pay an e-visa fee at all, provided the planned trip meets the conditions of the applicable exemption.

Therefore, before paying for a visa, determine whether you actually need one.

Is the Vietnam Visa Fee Refundable?

One of the most important things to understand about the Vietnam e-visa fee is that it is generally non-refundable if the visa application is refused.

The Vietnamese Immigration Department specifically states that the e-visa fee will not be refunded if the applicant is not granted the visa.

This makes accuracy extremely important when completing the application.

A traveler should carefully check information such as:

• Full name
• Passport number
• Date of birth
• Nationality
• Passport expiration date
• Intended entry date
• Intended exit date
• Entry point
• Other required application information

A small mistake can create complications.

For this reason, travelers should carefully review the application before submitting it and paying the fee.

Government Visa Fee vs. Service Fee

One of the biggest sources of confusion when searching for the Vietnam visa fee is the difference between the government fee and a visa agency service fee.

These are two different charges.

Government fee

The government fee is the amount charged by Vietnam's immigration authorities for processing the e-visa application.

For the standard e-visa:

Single entry: US$25

Multiple entry: US$50

Service fee

A private visa company may charge an additional amount for services such as:

• Completing the application
• Reviewing information
• Checking documents
• Customer support
• Application assistance
• Status assistance
• Urgent processing services, where available

Consequently, a website advertising a Vietnam visa for more than US$25 does not necessarily mean that the government has increased the visa fee.

The difference may be the company's service charge.

Travelers should therefore look carefully at the price breakdown before paying.

Why Do Some Websites Show Higher Vietnam Visa Prices?

Travelers searching online for "Vietnam visa fee" may encounter many different prices.

For example, one website may display US$25, while another may advertise a considerably higher amount.

This can happen because the websites are offering different services.

A private company might combine:

Government fee + service fee = total amount charged

For example, a hypothetical service could calculate its price as:

US$25 government fee + US$30 service fee = US$55 total

The US$30 in this example would not be the Vietnamese government's visa charge. It would be the company's own service charge.

Always check whether a displayed price is:

• Government fee only
• Service fee only
• Government fee plus service fee
• An optional expedited-processing charge

This distinction makes comparing Vietnam visa costs much easier.

How Long Is a Vietnam E-Visa Valid?

Vietnam e-visas can be issued for a period of up to 90 days. They may be issued for either single or multiple entry.

The validity period is important when planning your trip.

For example, if your e-visa is valid for 90 days, you should pay close attention to the dates shown on the approved visa.

The cost does not simply increase because you choose a longer validity period within the available e-visa period. The major fee difference is between single entry and multiple entry.

Is a 90-Day Vietnam Visa More Expensive?

Not necessarily.

The standard e-visa fee is based primarily on the entry type:

• Single entry: US$25
• Multiple entry: US$50

The maximum validity can be up to 90 days, but travelers should always check the dates granted on their individual visa.

The important distinction is therefore:

How many times do you need to enter Vietnam?

rather than simply:

How many days will you stay?

Vietnam Visa Fee for Tourists

Tourists who need a visa can generally consider the Vietnam e-visa when planning an ordinary holiday.

A typical tourist itinerary might include:

Hanoi

Vietnam's capital is a popular starting point for international visitors. Travelers can explore the Old Quarter, traditional architecture, markets, cafés, museums, and nearby attractions.

Ha Long Bay

Ha Long Bay is famous for its dramatic limestone islands and beautiful seascapes. Many visitors arrange boat cruises from Hanoi.

Da Nang

Da Nang offers beaches, modern resorts, restaurants, and convenient access to central Vietnam.

Hoi An

Hoi An is well known for its historic architecture, lantern-lit streets, riverside atmosphere, and traditional cultural experiences.

Ho Chi Minh City

Ho Chi Minh City provides a completely different urban experience, with busy streets, restaurants, shopping, museums, and historic attractions.

A traveler can potentially visit all these destinations on a single continuous entry into Vietnam. In that situation, a multiple-entry visa is not automatically necessary.

When Is a Multiple-Entry Visa Worth the Extra Fee?

The difference between US$25 and US$50 is relatively straightforward, but travelers should decide whether they actually need the additional flexibility.

A multiple-entry visa may make sense if your itinerary includes leaving Vietnam and returning before your visa expires.

For example:

Singapore → Vietnam → Cambodia → Vietnam → Thailand

Here, the traveler enters Vietnam twice.

A single-entry visa would not provide the same flexibility because the first departure from Vietnam would use the single entry.

A multiple-entry visa can therefore be useful for travelers combining Vietnam with other Southeast Asian countries.

Vietnam Visa Fee and Southeast Asia Travel

Vietnam is frequently included in multi-country Southeast Asian itineraries.

A traveler might plan:

Thailand → Vietnam → Cambodia

or:

Malaysia → Vietnam → Singapore

or:

Singapore → Vietnam → Thailand → Vietnam

The visa requirements become particularly important when Vietnam appears more than once in the itinerary.

If you plan to leave Vietnam and return, check whether your visa permits multiple entries.

This is one situation where paying the higher multiple-entry fee can provide useful flexibility.

What Payment Method Is Used for the Vietnam E-Visa?

The Vietnam e-visa application uses an electronic payment system.

The official application process includes completing the required information, receiving a registration code, paying the e-visa fee, and subsequently checking the application status.

Because the payment is made online, travelers should make sure:

• Their payment method is working.
• Their billing information is entered correctly where required.
• They do not accidentally submit duplicate applications.
• They keep their registration information.
• They retain payment confirmation where available.

Keeping your application details is especially useful if you need to check the status later.

What Information Do You Need Before Applying?

Preparing the necessary information before starting the application can reduce errors.

Travelers should generally have their passport available and carefully review its information.

You may need details including:

• Passport number
• Full name
• Date of birth
• Nationality
• Passport issue information
• Passport expiration information
• Intended travel dates
• Intended entry information
• Intended exit information
• Accommodation information
• Personal photograph
• Passport information-page image

The official instructions specifically mention uploading the passport data page and a photograph as part of the e-visa application.

Common Mistakes That Can Cost You Your Visa Fee

Because the e-visa fee is generally non-refundable when an application is refused, travelers should take care when entering their information.

1. Incorrect passport number

Your passport number should match the passport you will use to travel.

Do not accidentally enter an old passport number.

2. Incorrect name

Enter your name according to the required application format and ensure that it corresponds with your travel document.

3. Wrong date of birth

Check the date carefully before submitting the application.

4. Incorrect visa dates

Your intended entry date is important.

Do not assume you can enter Vietnam before the permitted start date simply because you have received an approved visa.

5. Wrong entry information

Vietnam has designated entry and exit points for e-visa travelers. The government provides a list of international border gates through which e-visa holders can enter and leave Vietnam.

Review your planned entry point carefully.

6. Poor-quality uploaded documents

Passport images and photographs should meet the application requirements.

A poor-quality upload can create processing problems.

7. Choosing the wrong entry type

If you plan to leave Vietnam and return, make sure the visa type matches your itinerary.

How to Budget for Your Vietnam Visa

The visa itself is only one part of your travel budget.

A realistic Vietnam trip budget can include:

• Visa fee
• Flights
• Hotels
• Domestic transportation
• Food
• Tours
• Travel insurance
• Airport transfers
• Shopping
• Entrance tickets
• Emergency expenses

For a traveler who needs an e-visa, the basic government visa cost can be relatively small compared with international airfare and accommodation.

For example:

Budget scenario

Single-entry e-visa: US$25

Multi-country scenario

Multiple-entry e-visa: US$50

You should also allow for possible currency conversion or payment-related costs imposed by your financial institution.

Can Children Have Vietnam Visa Fees?

Visa requirements can depend on the traveler's circumstances and nationality, so families should not automatically assume that children are exempt from the applicable visa fee.

If a child requires a Vietnam e-visa, the application should be completed according to the current immigration requirements applicable to that traveler.

Parents or guardians should carefully check each applicant's information before submitting an application.

Vietnam Visa Fee for Families

Families traveling together should calculate visa expenses individually when multiple travelers require visas.

For example, if four travelers each require a single-entry e-visa:

4 × US$25 = US$100

For four travelers requiring multiple-entry e-visas:

4 × US$50 = US$200

This is before considering any optional private service fees.

A family should therefore determine whether every traveler requires a visa and whether everyone needs the same entry type.

Vietnam Visa Fee for Business Travelers

The Vietnam e-visa system can also be relevant to foreign travelers visiting Vietnam for purposes beyond ordinary tourism, depending on their circumstances and applicable immigration rules.

Business travelers should not assume that a tourist-oriented explanation automatically covers their particular situation.

If the purpose of travel involves employment, long-term business activities, investment, or other specialized circumstances, additional immigration requirements may apply.

The visa category and permitted activities should be checked carefully before travel.

Can You Avoid the Vietnam Visa Fee?

Some travelers may not need to pay an e-visa fee because they qualify for a visa exemption.

Vietnam has visa-exemption arrangements for certain nationalities and circumstances.

Whether you qualify depends on factors such as:

• Your nationality
• Passport type
• Length of stay
• Travel circumstances
• Applicable exemption rules

Therefore, do not automatically apply for an e-visa simply because you are traveling to Vietnam.

First determine whether your passport requires a visa.

Vietnam Visa Exemption vs. E-Visa

These two situations should not be confused.

Visa exemption

You enter Vietnam without obtaining a visa, provided you meet the applicable exemption requirements.

Potential visa cost: US$0

E-visa

You apply for an electronic visa before traveling.

Single entry: US$25

Multiple entry: US$50

The best option depends on your nationality and travel plans.

Does the Vietnam Visa Fee Include Airfare?

No.

The Vietnam visa fee only relates to the visa application.

Your airline ticket is a separate expense.

For example, your overall trip could include:

Vietnam e-visa + international flight + hotel + transportation + food + tours

The US$25 or US$50 visa fee should therefore be treated as one component of your overall travel budget.

Does the Vietnam Visa Fee Include Hotel Costs?

No.

Accommodation is completely separate from the visa application.

Vietnam offers a wide range of accommodation, including:

• Hostels
• Guesthouses
• Budget hotels
• Boutique hotels
• Beach resorts
• Luxury hotels
• Serviced apartments

Your accommodation budget will depend heavily on the cities you visit, travel season, room type, and length of stay.

Is There a Vietnam Visa on Arrival Fee?

Travelers should be careful when reading older information about Vietnam visa procedures.

The current Vietnam e-visa system provides a direct electronic visa process for foreign travelers who meet the requirements. The official immigration portal describes the e-visa as an electronic visa issued by Vietnam's Immigration Department.

Older websites and travel discussions may contain information about previous visa procedures, so travelers should avoid relying on outdated instructions.

Always check the current immigration requirements before making travel arrangements.

How to Keep Vietnam Visa Costs Low

There are several sensible ways to avoid unnecessary visa expenses.

Apply for the appropriate visa type

If your trip requires only one entry, a single-entry visa may be sufficient.

If you will leave and return to Vietnam, consider the multiple-entry option.

Avoid unnecessary agency fees

If you are comfortable completing the application yourself, applying through the official electronic visa system can avoid private service charges.

Check your visa exemption

You may not need a visa at all if your nationality qualifies for visa-free entry.

Check everything before payment

Because the government fee is generally non-refundable after refusal, reviewing your application carefully can help prevent unnecessary expenses.

Apply early

Do not leave your visa application until the last moment.

The official immigration instructions indicate that the normal processing period is three working days, although travelers should allow additional time in case corrections or other issues arise.

Vietnam Visa Fee and Processing Time

The standard e-visa instructions state that applications are processed in approximately three working days after the required information and payment have been completed.

However, travelers should avoid planning their entire trip around the minimum stated processing time.

Unexpected issues can occur, including:

• Incorrect information
• Missing information
• Poor-quality documents
• Payment problems
• Application corrections
• Additional administrative processing

For this reason, applying well before your departure is a sensible approach.

What Happens After Paying the Vietnam Visa Fee?

After completing the application and payment, you should retain your registration information.

The official process allows applicants to check their application using information such as:

• Registration code
• Registration email
• Date of birth

If approved, the e-visa should be printed and used as required for entry and exit.

Before traveling, carefully check the approved visa.

Pay particular attention to:

• Your name
• Passport number
• Date of birth
• Visa validity
• Entry type
• Entry information

If something appears incorrect, address the issue before traveling rather than discovering it at the airport.

Vietnam Visa Fee: Quick Comparison

Here is the simplest way to understand the standard e-visa pricing:

The US$25 and US$50 figures refer to the standard government e-visa fees. Private companies can charge additional service fees.

Frequently Asked Questions About Vietnam Visa Fees

How much is a Vietnam visa?

For the standard Vietnam e-visa, the government fee is US$25 for single entry and US$50 for multiple entry.

Is the Vietnam visa fee refundable?

The e-visa fee is generally non-refundable if the visa is refused.

How long can a Vietnam e-visa be valid?

A Vietnam e-visa can be issued for up to 90 days, depending on the visa granted.

Is a multiple-entry visa more expensive?

Yes. The government fee for multiple entry is US$50 compared with US$25 for single entry.

Do all tourists need a Vietnam visa?

No. Some nationalities and travelers may qualify for visa exemptions. Requirements depend on the passport and circumstances.

Does a visa agency charge the same fee?

Not necessarily. A private agency may add a service fee to the government visa fee.

Can I visit several cities with a single-entry visa?

Yes. You can generally travel between destinations within Vietnam without using another visa entry. The key issue is whether you leave Vietnam and subsequently return.

Should I choose single or multiple entry?

Choose based on your itinerary. If you stay in Vietnam for the entire trip, single entry may be enough. If you plan to leave Vietnam and return during the visa's validity, multiple entry may be more suitable.

Final Thoughts on the Vietnam Visa Fee

Understanding the Vietnam visa fee before your trip can help you avoid unnecessary expenses and choose the right visa for your itinerary.

For the standard Vietnam e-visa, the key figures are simple:

US$25 for a single-entry e-visa

US$50 for a multiple-entry e-visa

The e-visa can be valid for up to 90 days, and the application fee is paid electronically. The fee is generally not refundable if the application is refused.

The most important thing is to distinguish the official government fee from any additional amount charged by private visa services. If you use an agency, understand exactly what its advertised price includes.

Before your Vietnam vacation, check your nationality's visa requirements, confirm whether you qualify for a visa exemption, choose the correct entry type, prepare your passport information carefully, and submit your application well before your planned departure.

With the visa cost understood in advance, you can focus on the more enjoyable parts of your Vietnam journey—from Hanoi's historic streets and Ha Long Bay's spectacular scenery to Hoi An's old town, Da Nang's beaches, and the energetic atmosphere of Ho Chi Minh City.