Vietnam Visa for Chinese Citizens 2026: Complete E-Visa Guide

Planning to visit Vietnam from China? You're making an excellent choice! Vietnam welcomes millions of Chinese tourists every year who come to explore pristine beaches, ancient temples, delicious cuisine, and vibrant cities. This comprehensive guide covers everything Chinese citizens need to know about obtaining a Vietnam e-Visa - the most convenient and efficient way to enter Vietnam in 2026.

Good to know: The Vietnam e-Visa is a fully online visa that Chinese citizens can obtain without visiting an embassy or consulate. Your approved e-Visa arrives by email within 3 working days (or faster with priority processing), and you can use it to enter Vietnam through all international airports, land borders with China, Cambodia, and Laos, and seaports.

Do Chinese Citizens Need a Visa for Vietnam?

Yes, Chinese citizens need a visa to enter Vietnam. Unlike some Southeast Asian countries that offer visa-free entry to Chinese passport holders, Vietnam requires all Chinese nationals to obtain a visa before arrival, regardless of the purpose or duration of stay.

The good news? The Vietnam e-Visa system makes obtaining your visa incredibly simple:

• 100% online application - No embassy visit required
• Fast processing - Normal 3-day processing, or choose priority 2-day, 1-day, or 4-hour urgent service
• Visa sent by email - Print and present at immigration (or show on mobile device)
• Valid for all entry points - Airports, land borders, and seaports
• Up to 90 days - Single or multiple entry options

Vietnam E-Visa Options for Chinese Citizens

Chinese passport holders can choose from several e-Visa options based on their travel needs. Here's a complete comparison:

Most popular for Chinese tourists: The 90-day multiple entry e-Visa offers maximum flexibility, allowing you to visit Vietnam multiple times or combine your trip with travel to Cambodia, Laos, Thailand, or other Southeast Asian countries.

How to Apply: Step-by-Step Guide for Chinese Citizens

Applying for your Vietnam e-Visa is straightforward. Follow these steps to complete your application in under 10 minutes:

Step 1: Prepare Your Documents

Before starting, gather these required documents:

• Valid Chinese passport: Must be valid for at least 6 months from your entry date into Vietnam
• Digital passport photo: Recent photo (4x6 cm), white background, no glasses, face clearly visible
• Passport bio-page scan: Clear scan or photo of your passport's information page
• Payment method: Credit card, debit card, or other accepted payment methods
• Email address: To receive your approved e-Visa

Important note: Unlike the old Visa on Arrival system, e-Visa does NOT require an invitation letter, sponsorship, or any supporting documents for tourism purposes. Business travelers may need additional documents for business visa applications.

Step 2: Complete the Online Application

1. Visit the Vietnam e-Visa application page
2. Select your visa type (duration and entry type)
3. Choose your processing speed (Normal, 2-Day, 1-Day, or Urgent)
4. Enter your personal information:
   • Full name (as shown in passport)
   • Date of birth
   • Nationality: China
   • Passport number and expiry date
   • Current address in China
5. Upload your documents:
   • Passport photo (JPEG or PNG format)
   • Passport bio-page scan
6. Enter your planned arrival date and entry point (airport, land border, or seaport)
7. Review all information carefully for accuracy
8. Pay the visa fee using your preferred payment method

Pro tip: Double-check that your name exactly matches your passport spelling. Any discrepancies can cause delays or rejection.

Step 3: Wait for Approval

After submitting your application:

• You'll receive a confirmation email immediately
• Your application will be processed according to your chosen speed
• Normal processing: 3 working days
• 2-day processing: 2 working days
• 1-day processing: 1 working day
• Urgent processing: 4 hours (for emergency travel)
• Your approved e-Visa will arrive by email in PDF format

Note: Working days exclude weekends and Vietnamese public holidays. If you need your visa quickly, consider priority processing options.

Step 4: Print and Travel

Once you receive your e-Visa approval:

1. Print your e-Visa: Print at least 2 copies (keep one as backup)
2. Verify all details: Check that all information is correct
3. Carry it with you: Present at immigration upon arrival in Vietnam
4. Keep digital copy: Save on your phone as backup (most airports accept digital copies)

Vietnam E-Visa Processing Times for Chinese Citizens

We offer multiple processing speeds to match your travel timeline. Here's what to expect with each option:

Important: Working days do not include weekends (Saturday-Sunday) or Vietnamese public holidays. If you apply on Friday with normal processing, your visa will likely arrive on Wednesday. For urgent travel needs, always choose priority or urgent processing.

Learn more about processing times in our detailed processing time guide.

Vietnam E-Visa Fees for Chinese Citizens

E-Visa fees consist of two components:

• Government visa fee: Set by Vietnamese immigration authorities
• Service fee: Covers application processing, support, and delivery

Total fees vary based on:

• Visa type (30-day vs 90-day)
• Entry type (single vs multiple entry)
• Processing speed (normal vs priority)

All fees are displayed clearly during the application process before payment. There are no hidden charges. When you complete your e-Visa application, you'll see the exact total cost based on your selections.

Entry Points: Where Chinese Citizens Can Enter Vietnam

Your Vietnam e-Visa is valid for entry through all official international entry points. Chinese citizens can enter Vietnam through:

International Airports (All Accept E-Visa)

• Tan Son Nhat International Airport (SGN): Ho Chi Minh City - Vietnam's busiest airport. Most international flights from China arrive here. Consider adding airport fast-track service to skip long immigration queues.
• Noi Bai International Airport (HAN): Hanoi - Second busiest airport, gateway to Northern Vietnam
• Da Nang International Airport (DAD): Da Nang - Perfect for Central Vietnam, near Hoi An
• Cam Ranh International Airport (CXR): Nha Trang - Beach destination
• Phu Quoc International Airport (PQC): Phu Quoc Island - Vietnam's largest island
• Can Tho International Airport (VCA): Can Tho - Mekong Delta region
• Cat Bi International Airport (HPH): Hai Phong - Gateway to Halong Bay

Land Borders with China

Chinese citizens can enter Vietnam through these land border crossings (e-Visa accepted):

• Huu Nghi (Friendship Gate) - Lao Cai: Connects with Hekou, Yunnan Province - Most popular China-Vietnam border crossing
• Mong Cai: Connects with Dongxing, Guangxi Province - Convenient for Southern China
• Lao Cai: Connects with Hekou, Yunnan - Gateway to Sapa and Northern Vietnam
• Other approved land borders: Check current border crossing status before travel

Travel tip: If entering Vietnam overland from China, verify your chosen border crossing accepts e-Visa and check opening hours. Some smaller borders have limited operating hours.

Seaports (For Cruise Passengers)

E-Visa is accepted at all Vietnamese international seaports, including:

• Ho Chi Minh City Port
• Hai Phong Port
• Da Nang Port
• Nha Trang Port (Cruise terminal)
• Phu Quoc Port

Best Destinations in Vietnam for Chinese Travelers

Once you have your e-Visa, where should you go? Here are the most popular destinations among Chinese tourists:

Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon)

Vietnam's largest city offers incredible street food, French colonial architecture, war history museums, and vibrant nightlife. Don't miss Ben Thanh Market, Notre Dame Cathedral, and day trips to the Mekong Delta. Read our complete Ho Chi Minh City travel guide.

Hanoi

The capital city combines thousand-year-old history with modern energy. Explore the Old Quarter, visit Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, watch water puppet shows, and enjoy authentic Northern Vietnamese cuisine. Hanoi is the gateway to Halong Bay and Sapa. Check out our detailed Hanoi travel guide.

Halong Bay

UNESCO World Heritage Site famous for emerald waters and thousands of limestone islands. Take an overnight cruise, explore caves, kayak through hidden lagoons, and watch sunrise over the bay. One of Vietnam's most photographed destinations. Learn more in our Halong Bay cruise guide.

Hoi An

Ancient town with preserved architecture, colorful lanterns, and tailor shops. Perfect for leisurely walks, photography, custom clothing, and nearby beaches. Hoi An offers a slower pace compared to busy cities. Find details in our Da Nang & Hoi An guide.

Da Nang

Modern coastal city with beautiful beaches (My Khe Beach), Marble Mountains, and the famous Golden Bridge at Ba Na Hills. Great base for exploring Central Vietnam.

Nha Trang

Vietnam's premier beach destination with crystal-clear water, island hopping, scuba diving, and luxurious resorts. Popular with Chinese tourists seeking beach relaxation. See our Nha Trang travel guide.

Phu Quoc Island

Vietnam's largest island offers pristine beaches, Vinpearl Safari, night markets, and water sports. Perfect for beach vacations and family travel. Read more in our Phu Quoc Island guide.

Sapa

Mountain town known for spectacular terraced rice fields, ethnic minority villages, and trekking. Visit Fansipan (Indochina's highest peak) via cable car. Beautiful year-round but best in September-October for golden rice terraces. Explore with our Sapa guide.

Mekong Delta

The "Rice Bowl of Vietnam" features floating markets, boat tours through canals, fruit orchards, and authentic Delta culture. Popular day trips from Ho Chi Minh City or multi-day tours staying in Can Tho. Get the full experience with our Mekong Delta travel guide.

Travel Tips for Chinese Citizens Visiting Vietnam

Language & Communication

While Vietnamese is the official language, many tourist areas in Vietnam cater to Chinese speakers. You can expect:

• Chinese-speaking staff: Hotels, restaurants, and tour operators in major cities often have Mandarin or Cantonese-speaking staff
• Chinese menus: Many restaurants in tourist areas provide menus with Chinese translations
• WeChat: Some Vietnamese businesses accept WeChat for communication
• Translation apps: Download Google Translate or similar apps (download offline Vietnamese pack before traveling)
• English is common: In tourist areas, basic English is widely spoken

Money & Payments

• Currency: Vietnamese Dong (VND). 1 Chinese Yuan ≈ 3,500-3,700 VND (rates fluctuate)
• Cash is king: Bring USD or Chinese Yuan to exchange. Many places accept only cash
• ATMs: Widely available in cities. Withdraw VND directly (better rates than exchange counters)
• Credit cards: Accepted at hotels, upscale restaurants, and large stores. Visa and Mastercard more widely accepted than UnionPay
• Mobile payments: Vietnamese use Momo and ZaloPay (local apps). International cards work with some merchants
• Bargaining: Expected at markets. Hotels and restaurants have fixed prices

Internet & Connectivity

Stay connected during your Vietnam trip with these options. Read our detailed guide on staying connected in Vietnam:

• Vietnamese SIM cards: Purchase at airports (Viettel, Vinaphone, Mobifone). Tourist packages include data, calls, and texts
• International roaming: Check with China Mobile, China Unicom, or China Telecom for Vietnam roaming packages
• Pocket WiFi: Rent portable WiFi devices at airports
• VPN considerations: Note that some Chinese apps and websites may have connectivity issues abroad. Consider VPN if needed
• Free WiFi: Available at most hotels, cafes, and restaurants

Safety & Health

• Safety: Vietnam is generally very safe for tourists. Watch belongings in crowded areas and use registered taxis or Grab
• Traffic: Be extremely careful crossing streets. Vietnamese traffic can be overwhelming for first-time visitors
• Food safety: Stick to busy, popular restaurants. Avoid tap water (drink bottled water only)
• Travel insurance: Highly recommended. Healthcare in Vietnam is good but expensive for foreigners without insurance
• Vaccinations: Consult your doctor. Common recommendations include Hepatitis A/B, Typhoid, and routine vaccinations
• Emergency numbers: Police (113), Ambulance (115), Fire (114)

Cultural Etiquette

• Dress modestly: Cover shoulders and knees when visiting temples and pagodas
• Remove shoes: Take off shoes before entering homes, temples, and some shops
• Bargaining: Acceptable at markets but not at restaurants or hotels
• Tipping: Not expected but appreciated (5-10% at restaurants)
• Respect elders: Vietnamese culture values respect for older people
• Public displays: Keep public affection minimal (hand-holding okay, kissing not)

Best Time to Visit

• Northern Vietnam (Hanoi, Halong Bay, Sapa): October-April (cool, dry weather). Avoid July-September (hot and humid)
• Central Vietnam (Da Nang, Hoi An, Hue): February-May (warm, minimal rain). Avoid October-December (typhoon season)
• Southern Vietnam (Ho Chi Minh City, Mekong Delta, Phu Quoc): December-April (dry season). Avoid May-November (rainy season, though mornings usually sunny)
• Overall best months: February-April (good weather nationwide)
• Peak season: December-February (expect higher prices and crowds)

Getting Around Vietnam

• Domestic flights: Vietnam Airlines, VietJet, Bamboo Airways connect major cities. Book in advance for better prices
• Trains: Scenic option for Hanoi-HCMC route. Book sleeper berths for overnight journeys
• Buses: Cheap and extensive network. Sleeper buses available for long routes
• Grab: Ride-hailing app (like Didi). Available in all major cities. Safer than street taxis
• Motorbike rental: Popular but risky. Vietnamese traffic is chaotic. Requires International Driving Permit
• Private car with driver: Comfortable option for families or groups

Vietnam E-Visa vs Visa on Arrival for Chinese Citizens

Chinese travelers may have heard about Vietnam's old "Visa on Arrival" (VOA) system. Here's why e-Visa is now the better choice:

Our recommendation: Always choose e-Visa. It's faster, more convenient, works at all entry points, and eliminates the hassle of airport queues and cash payments.

Business Travel: Vietnam Business Visa for Chinese Citizens

If you're traveling to Vietnam for business purposes - meetings, conferences, site visits, negotiations - you should apply for a business e-Visa. The process is similar to tourist e-Visa but with a few key differences:

• Purpose selection: Choose "Business" instead of "Tourism" during application
• Supporting documents: May need invitation letter from Vietnamese company or business registration documents
• Same processing times: Normal, 2-day, 1-day, and urgent options available
• Multiple entry recommended: Business travelers typically choose 90-day multiple entry for flexibility
• Priority processing popular: Business travelers often choose 2-day or 1-day processing to avoid delays

Read our comprehensive Vietnam business visa guide for detailed information on business visa requirements, documentation, and application tips.

Airport Fast-Track Service for Chinese Travelers

Arriving at a busy Vietnamese airport after a long flight? Skip the immigration queues with our airport fast-track service. This VIP service is especially valuable for:

• Peak travel times: During Chinese holidays (Spring Festival, Golden Week, National Day) when many Chinese tourists arrive simultaneously
• Families with children: Avoid long waits with tired kids
• Business travelers: Get to your meetings faster
• Connecting flights: Don't stress about tight connections
• Elderly travelers: Skip the long walks and standing

How it works: A dedicated staff member meets you at your flight arrival gate, escorts you through priority lanes, handles immigration formalities, assists with luggage, and brings you through customs. Total time: 15-20 minutes vs 1-2 hours in regular lines.

Fast-track is available at Tan Son Nhat (Ho Chi Minh City), Noi Bai (Hanoi), and Da Nang airports. Learn more about airport fast-track service.

Sample Itineraries for Chinese Tourists

Not sure how to plan your Vietnam trip? Here are popular itineraries that work well for Chinese tourists:

1 Week: Vietnam Highlights

• Days 1-3: Hanoi - Old Quarter, Hoan Kiem Lake, water puppet show, street food tour
• Day 4: Halong Bay cruise (overnight on boat)
• Day 5: Fly to Da Nang, visit Ba Na Hills (Golden Bridge)
• Days 6-7: Hoi An - Ancient town, lantern festival, beach time

10 Days: North to South Journey

• Days 1-2: Hanoi exploration
• Day 3: Halong Bay cruise
• Days 4-5: Fly to Da Nang & Hoi An
• Days 6-8: Fly to Ho Chi Minh City - Cu Chi Tunnels, city sights, Mekong Delta day trip
• Days 9-10: Phu Quoc Island beach relaxation

2 Weeks: Complete Vietnam Experience

• Days 1-3: Hanoi & surroundings
• Day 4: Halong Bay cruise
• Days 5-6: Sapa trekking & rice terraces
• Days 7-9: Da Nang, Hoi An & My Son ruins
• Days 10-11: Nha Trang beach & island hopping
• Days 12-14: Ho Chi Minh City & Mekong Delta

Visa recommendation: For all these itineraries, the 90-day multiple entry e-Visa provides maximum flexibility, especially if you want to visit neighboring countries during your trip.

Common Questions from Chinese Travelers

Can I apply for Vietnam e-Visa from China?

Yes! The Vietnam e-Visa system is fully online and accessible worldwide, including from China. You can apply from anywhere with internet access. The entire process is completed online - no need to visit an embassy or consulate.

Can I extend my Vietnam e-Visa after arrival?

No, e-Visas cannot be extended. If you need to stay longer than your approved visa period, you must exit Vietnam and apply for a new e-Visa. This is why many travelers choose the 90-day multiple entry option for maximum flexibility.

What if my e-Visa application is rejected?

E-Visa rejections are rare if you provide accurate information and valid documents. Common rejection reasons include:

• Passport validity less than 6 months
• Poor quality photos (unclear, wrong size, dark background)
• Incomplete or incorrect personal information
• Previous immigration violations in Vietnam

If rejected, you'll receive an explanation email. You can correct the issues and reapply. Our customer support team can help ensure your application is complete and accurate before submission. Learn more in our comprehensive guide: Vietnam Visa Rejection: Common Reasons & How to Avoid Them.

Do children need separate e-Visas?

Yes, every traveler entering Vietnam needs their own e-Visa, including infants and children. Each child must have:

• Their own valid passport
• Separate e-Visa application
• Individual passport photo

When traveling as a family, submit applications for all family members together. Read our family travel guide for tips on traveling to Vietnam with children.

Can I enter Vietnam multiple times with single entry e-Visa?

No. A single entry e-Visa allows you to enter Vietnam once only. Once you exit Vietnam, your single entry visa becomes invalid, even if you haven't used all 30 or 90 days.

If you plan to visit Cambodia, Laos, or other countries during your Southeast Asia trip and want to return to Vietnam, you must choose multiple entry e-Visa. This allows unlimited entries and exits during the visa validity period.

Is Vietnam e-Visa different from visa exemption?

Yes. Some nationalities can enter Vietnam visa-free for certain periods. However, Chinese citizens do NOT have visa exemption for Vietnam. All Chinese passport holders need a visa to enter Vietnam, regardless of stay duration or purpose.

Can I use my e-Visa to enter Vietnam from China by land?

Yes! E-Visa is accepted at land border crossings between China and Vietnam, including Huu Nghi (Friendship Gate), Mong Cai, and Lao Cai borders. This makes it perfect for travelers taking trains or buses from Yunnan or Guangxi provinces into Vietnam.

Important: Verify that your specific border crossing accepts e-Visa and check opening hours before traveling. Some smaller crossings have limited hours or may only accept certain visa types.

Why Choose Our E-Visa Service?

While you can apply for Vietnam e-Visa through the government website, our service offers significant advantages for Chinese travelers:

• Simplified Chinese-friendly process: Our system is designed to be intuitive for Chinese applicants
• Multiple processing speeds: Choose from 3-day normal, 2-day priority, 1-day urgent, or 4-hour emergency processing
• Application review: Our team checks your application for errors before submission, reducing rejection risk
• Customer support: Get help from our support team if you have questions
• Success guarantee: We handle issues and resubmissions if problems occur
• Email delivery: Your approved visa arrives by email - no need to wait for physical documents
• Additional services: Add airport fast-track, travel insurance, or other services

Ready to Apply? Get Your Vietnam E-Visa Now

Don't let visa concerns delay your Vietnam adventure! The application process takes less than 10 minutes, and you'll have your approved e-Visa within 3 working days (or faster with priority processing).

Getting started is easy:

1. Visit our Vietnam e-Visa application page
2. Select your visa type and processing speed
3. Complete the online form with your travel details
4. Upload your passport photo and passport bio-page
5. Pay securely online
6. Receive your approved e-Visa by email

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Do Chinese citizens need a visa for Vietnam?

Yes, Chinese citizens need a visa to enter Vietnam. The Vietnam e-Visa is the most convenient option, available for tourist and business purposes with stays up to 90 days. Chinese passport holders cannot enter Vietnam visa-free.

How long does Vietnam e-Visa processing take for Chinese citizens?

Normal processing takes 3 working days. Priority options include 2-day processing (2 working days), 1-day processing (1 working day), and urgent 4-hour processing for emergency travel. Processing times exclude weekends and Vietnamese public holidays.

What documents do Chinese citizens need for Vietnam e-Visa?

You need: (1) Valid Chinese passport with at least 6 months validity, (2) Digital passport photo (4x6cm, white background), (3) Passport bio-page scan, (4) Valid payment method. No invitation letter or sponsorship required for e-Visa applications.

How much does Vietnam e-Visa cost for Chinese citizens?

Fees vary by processing speed: Normal (3 days) starts from government fee + service fee, 2-day priority processing has higher fees, 1-day urgent processing costs more, and 4-hour emergency processing has premium pricing. All prices shown during application include government and service fees.

Can Chinese citizens apply for Vietnam visa on arrival?

Visa on Arrival (VOA) has been discontinued for most travelers. The Vietnam e-Visa is now the recommended and most convenient option. E-Visa is fully online - no embassy visit required, approved visa sent by email, valid for entry at all airports, land borders, and seaports.

What type of Vietnam e-Visa should Chinese tourists choose?

For tourism, choose 'Tourist' purpose with either 30-day single entry (one entry only) or 90-day multiple entry (unlimited entries). The 90-day multiple entry is best for travelers visiting neighboring countries like Cambodia, Laos, or Thailand during their Southeast Asia trip.

Can Chinese citizens extend their Vietnam e-Visa?

Vietnam e-Visa cannot be extended. If you need to stay longer than your approved period, you must exit Vietnam and apply for a new e-Visa. Consider applying for 90-day multiple entry if you might need flexibility or plan to visit neighboring countries.

Which Vietnamese airports accept e-Visa for Chinese citizens?

All major international airports accept e-Visa: Tan Son Nhat (Ho Chi Minh City), Noi Bai (Hanoi), Da Nang, Cam Ranh (Nha Trang), Phu Quoc, Can Tho, and Cat Bi (Hai Phong). E-Visa is also valid at land borders with Cambodia, Laos, and China, and all seaports.

Is Vietnam safe for Chinese tourists?

Yes, Vietnam is generally safe for Chinese tourists. Millions of Chinese visitors travel to Vietnam annually. Exercise normal precautions: watch belongings in crowded areas, use registered taxis or Grab, avoid unlicensed tour operators, and keep copies of your passport and e-Visa. Tourist police are available in major cities.

Do Chinese citizens need travel insurance for Vietnam?

Travel insurance is not mandatory for Vietnam e-Visa but highly recommended. Insurance should cover medical emergencies, trip cancellations, lost luggage, and evacuation. Vietnam's healthcare is good in major cities but can be expensive for foreigners without insurance.