VISA
1. DETERMINE VISA TYPE
Swiss and most European passport holders do not need a visa for short visits (up to 45 days) to Vietnam. If you are coming from another country (not Switzerland), check carefully whether your nationality qualifies for visa exemption. You can confirm this by visiting the official Vietnamese Embassy/Consulate website in your country or contacting them directly, as rules vary depending on your passport.
If your stay will exceed 45 days, you’ll need to apply for either:
E-visa (30 days, single entry or multiple entry)
Tourist visa (up to 90 days, multiple entries possible)
2. CHECK ELIGIBILITY
To qualify for a visa-free entry or e-visa, you must:
Hold a valid Swiss (or other eligible European) passport with at least 6 months validity from your entry date.
Have at least 1–2 blank pages in your passport for stamping.
Not be subject to any entry bans or restrictions in Vietnam.
3. PREPARE REQUIRED DOCUMENTS
Depending on your travel purpose and visa type, you may need:
A valid passport (minimum 6 months validity).
Completed e-visa application form (if applicable).
A recent passport-sized photo (digital upload for e-visa, physical for consulate applications).
Flight itinerary (entry and exit).
Proof of accommodation (hotel booking or invitation letter if staying with friends/family).
For business/conference travel: an invitation letter from the Vietnamese organization or event organizer.
4. APPLY ONLINE OR AT AN EMBASSY
E-visa (most common): Apply via Vietnam’s official e-visa portal. Processing usually takes 3–5 working days.
Tourist or business visa (longer stay/multiple entries): Apply at the Vietnamese Embassy/Consulate in Switzerland or through an approved visa service.
5. PAY THE VISA FEE
E-visa: ~US$25 (single entry) or US$50 (multiple entry).
Embassy-issued visas: Fees vary depending on type and duration. Payment is usually required at the time of application.
6. WAIT FOR PROCESSING
E-visa approval letters are sent by email (print a copy to carry with you).
Embassy-issued visas may require in-person collection or delivery by post.
7. ENTER VIETNAM
On arrival:
Present your passport and visa (or e-visa approval letter) at immigration.
Ensure the entry stamp matches your visa type and validity.