Vietnam Visa Requirements for Indian Citizens (2025 Guide)
1. Do Indian Tourists Need a Visa for Vietnam?
Yes, absolutely. Indian citizens (holding valid Indian passports) are required to have a valid visa to enter Vietnam. Unlike Thailand or Sri Lanka, Vietnam does not currently offer visa-free entry for Indian passport holders for general tourism (with a limited exemption for Phu Quoc Island under strict direct-flight conditions).
The game-changer for Indian travelers is the 90-day e-Visa, which permits both single and multiple entries. This electronic visa is linked directly to your passport number and has replaced the complicated old system.
Important Update (2025): The e-Visa system is now available to citizens of all countries, including India. It is the highly recommended method over the older "Visa on Arrival" (VOA) letters, which are becoming obsolete and less reliable.
2. e-Visa vs. Visa on Arrival (VOA)
While some agencies still sell "Approval Letters" for VOA, the e-Visa is the superior choice for Indian travelers in 2025:
| Feature | e-Visa (Recommended) | Visa on Arrival (VOA) |
|---|---|---|
| Application | 100% Online | Requires Pre-Approval Letter |
| Airport Process | Direct to Immigration | Queue at "Landing Visa" Desk (Can be long) |
| Official Cost | Paid once online | Service fee + Stamping fee ($25 USD) at airport |
| Certainty | Issued by Govt | Dependent on agency letter |
3. How to Apply for a Vietnam Visa from India
Applying for a Vietnam visa from India is simple and entirely online. You do not need to visit the Vietnam Embassy in New Delhi or the Consulate in Mumbai.
- Prepare Documents: A digital scan/photo of your passport data page and a passport-sized photo (4x6cm, white background).
- Fill the Online Form: Complete the secure application form with your details exactly as they appear on your passport. Start Application Here.
- Pay the Fee: Use your international credit/debit card (Visa, Mastercard) to pay the processing fee.
- Receive e-Visa: Within 3 business days, you will receive your e-Visa via email (PDF format).
- Print It: Print at least two hard copies before you fly. Airlines in India will check this before boarding.
4. Arriving in Vietnam from India
Connectivity has exploded recently with direct flights making Vietnam very accessible:
Direct Flights
VietJet Air and Vietnam Airlines operate direct flights from New Delhi (DEL), Mumbai (BOM), Ahmedabad (AMD), and Kochi (COK) to Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, and Da Nang. Flight time is only 4-5 hours!
Transit Routes
Alternatively, connect via Bangkok (Thai Airways, IndiGo) or Singapore (Singapore Airlines, Scoot) or Kuala Lumpur (Malaysia Airlines, AirAsia).
Estimated Cost: Economy round-trip tickets range from ₹18,000 to ₹35,000 INR depending on the season and booking time. VietJet often has sales.
Book Your Flight: Check Skyscanner India or MakeMyTrip.
Upon arrival, go straight to the Immigration Counter with your passport and printed e-Visa. There is no additional fee to pay at the airport if you have the e-Visa.
5. Important Travel Advice for Indian Citizens
Specific tips for Indian travelers to ensure a smooth trip:
Currency (INR vs VND)
1 INR ≈ 300 VND. You will be a "millionaire" in Vietnam! Note that INR is NOT accepted in Vietnam. Bring USD from India to exchange at jewelry shops or banks in Vietnam for the best rates. International cards work in malls but carry cash for street food.
Vegetarian Food (Chay)
Vegetarians rejoice! Vietnam has a strong Buddhist culture. Look for signs saying "Cơm Chay" (Vegetarian Rice). Indian restaurants are also plentiful in major cities like HCMC, Hanoi, and Da Nang (e.g., Baba's Kitchen, Ganesh).
Top Destinations
Da Nang and the Golden Bridge (Ba Na Hills) are top favorites for Indian tourists. The ancient town of Hoi An is perfect for custom tailoring and lanterns. Phu Quoc offers pristine beaches.
Indian Embassy Contact
Embassy in Hanoi: +84 24 3824 4990 (58-60 Tran Hung Dao)
Consulate in HCMC: +84 28 3744 2400 (55 Nguyen Dinh Chieu)
Emergency Consular Services available.
The Hindu Connection
Did you know? Central Vietnam is home to the ancient Champa Kingdom, which has deep Hindu roots. Visit My Son Sanctuary near Hoi An to see ancient temples dedicated to Lord Shiva.
What to Buy
Ben Thanh Market (HCMC) or Han Market (Da Nang) are paradises for shoppers. Look for Vietnam Cashew Nuts (much cheaper than India), Silk, and Pearls.
Jain & Desi Food
Many Indian restaurants in HCMC (District 1) and Hanoi (Old Quarter) offer specific Jain menus. Areas like Bui Vien in HCMC are packed with Indian eateries.
Frequently Asked Questions for Indian Travelers
Yes! The e-Visa policy now allows Indian citizens to apply for a 90-day multiple-entry visa. This is perfect if you plan to combine Vietnam with a trip to Cambodia or Thailand.
No. India's UPI system is not yet widely integrated in Vietnam. You cannot scan local QR codes with Indian apps. You must use Cash (VND) or swipe your International Credit/Debit Card. Always enable international transactions on your card before flying.
Vietnamese street food is delicious and generally safe if it's cooked hot in front of you. However, if you have a sensitive stomach, stick to bottled water and avoid raw herbs or ice at roadside stalls. Vegetarian options like "Banh Mi Chay" are safe bets.
The best time is November to April (Winter/Spring) when the weather is pleasant and dry, offering a break from the heat. This is also the peak wedding and holiday season.
You can easily buy a SIM card (Viettel, Vinaphone, or Mobifone) at the airport arrival hall upon landing. Prices range from 200,000 to 300,000 VND for a data package. It's much cheaper than international roaming.
Absolutely! Da Nang and Phu Quoc are becoming top choices for Indian weddings due to luxury resorts, beautiful beaches, and direct flight connectivity. Many resorts now have experience hosting large Indian weddings.