Before packing your bags for Vietnam, it’s crucial to understand one essential detail that every traveler needs to get right — the duration of the Vietnam eVisa. Misunderstanding your visa validity could lead to unwanted fines, denied entry, or even a ruined trip. In this guide, we’ll break down everything about the Vietnam eVisa duration — how long it’s valid, when it starts, what it covers, and how to make sure your travel plans fit perfectly within the legal timeframe.
The Vietnam eVisa is an official electronic visa issued by the Vietnamese government that allows foreign travelers to enter Vietnam for tourism, business, or short visits. This digital system simplifies the visa process, enabling applicants to complete everything online without visiting an embassy or consulate.
The eVisa is valid for entry through 42 international checkpoints, including major airports such as Hanoi (Noi Bai), Ho Chi Minh City (Tan Son Nhat), and Da Nang International Airport. Once approved, the visa is sent directly to the applicant’s email in PDF format, ready to be printed or saved digitally.
This modernized visa system replaces much of the traditional paperwork and lengthy embassy visits. With just a few minutes of online application, travelers can secure legal entry into Vietnam quickly and conveniently, making it one of the most traveler-friendly visa systems in Asia.
The standard Vietnam eVisa duration is up to 90 days (three months). During the application process, travelers can choose either a single-entry or a multiple-entry eVisa, depending on their travel plans.
It’s essential to understand that the eVisa’s validity is based on the entry and exit dates specified in your application form — not on the date you actually arrive in Vietnam.
For example, if you apply for an eVisa with an entry date of April 1st and an exit date of April 30th, the visa will be valid only for those dates. Even if you enter Vietnam on April 10th, your eVisa will still expire on April 30th.
The visa duration cannot be changed once issued. Therefore, it’s important to carefully plan your trip dates before applying. The maximum allowable stay is within the validity period indicated on the eVisa itself.
Your Vietnam eVisa duration begins from the “valid from” date printed on your visa, regardless of when you actually enter the country. The duration ends at midnight on the “valid until” date.
This means travelers cannot extend their stay beyond the end date, even by a single day, without facing penalties.
The entry and exit dates you select during your application determine the overall duration. Travelers are free to enter any time after the “valid from” date but must leave by the “valid until” date, even if they haven’t used all of the allotted days.
This fixed-date policy ensures a clear immigration timeline but also means you need to apply strategically — avoid applying too early if your travel schedule is flexible. It’s best to align your visa validity window with your exact itinerary to maximize your stay.
The Vietnam eVisa offers two main validity types: single-entry and multiple-entry. While both can last up to 90 days, they differ in how travelers can use them.
A single-entry eVisa allows you to enter Vietnam once and stay until your visa expires. If you leave the country, the visa automatically becomes invalid — even if there’s still time remaining. This option is best for travelers who plan to stay in Vietnam without visiting neighboring countries.
A multiple-entry eVisa, on the other hand, allows you to enter and exit Vietnam multiple times within its validity period. This is ideal for travelers exploring several Southeast Asian destinations during the same trip. The duration remains the same — up to 90 days — but offers more flexibility for regional travel.
Both options share the same application process, so it’s important to decide in advance which type best suits your travel itinerary.
Currently, Vietnam does not permit in-country extensions for eVisas. Once your visa expires, you must exit the country and apply for a new one to return.
In rare circumstances, such as medical emergencies or unforeseen travel disruptions, travelers may apply for a special extension through the Vietnam Immigration Department. However, such approvals are uncommon and handled on a case-by-case basis.
For most travelers, the easiest option is to plan ahead — if you anticipate needing more than 90 days in Vietnam, consider scheduling a short trip to a neighboring country, such as Cambodia or Thailand, and reapplying for a new eVisa before returning.
If you want a smooth process, VietnamImmigration.com offers a reliable and fast application service that helps you handle your visa paperwork efficiently, with 24/7 support and guaranteed approval.
Overstaying your eVisa — even by a single day — can result in fines, complications, or future visa denials. The fine amount varies depending on the length of the overstay, ranging from 500,000 VND to several million VND.
In more serious cases, travelers may be blacklisted or temporarily banned from re-entering Vietnam. Airlines can also refuse boarding if your overstay isn’t resolved with the authorities.
If your eVisa is close to expiring and you’re unable to leave immediately, contact the nearest Immigration Office for assistance before your visa expires. Always plan to leave a few days before the “valid until” date to avoid last-minute problems.
By understanding the rules around your Vietnam eVisa duration, you can enjoy a stress-free trip and focus on exploring Vietnam’s breathtaking landscapes, vibrant cities, and rich culture.
