Vietnam
Southeast Asia • VNM
Last updated: May 8, 2026
Vietnam is a captivating Southeast Asian nation known for its stunning natural landscapes, rich history, and vibrant street food culture. From the limestone karsts of Ha Long Bay to the bustling streets of Ho Chi Minh City, visitors will find a unique blend of ancient traditions and modern development.
Visa Requirements
Most international visitors require an e-visa, which can be applied for online, while some nationalities qualify for visa-free entry for specific durations.
Typically Required Documents
- Original passport with at least six months of validity
- Printed e-visa approval letter
- Two recent passport-sized photos
- Proof of onward travel or return flight ticket
- Completed entry/exit form
Popular Attractions
Ha Long Bay: Famous for its thousands of towering limestone islands and emerald waters, this UNESCO World Heritage site is best explored via cruise.
Hoi An Ancient Town: This charming riverside town is well-preserved with lantern-lit streets, historic architecture, and world-class tailors.
Hanoi Old Quarter: The heart of Vietnam's capital, offering narrow streets filled with colonial architecture, bustling markets, and traditional street food.
Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park: Home to some of the world's largest and most spectacular caves, perfect for adventurous spelunking and trekking.
Mekong Delta: Known as the 'rice bowl' of Vietnam, this region features floating markets, lush orchards, and small villages connected by winding waterways.
Local Customs & Etiquette
Dress modestly when visiting temples or pagodas by covering your shoulders and knees to show respect.
Remove your shoes before entering someone's home or certain traditional guesthouses.
Avoid public displays of affection as they are generally frowned upon in more traditional and rural areas.
Always use both hands when handing something to someone, especially to elders, as a sign of politeness.
Keep your voice low in public spaces, as loud behavior is often considered disruptive or rude.
It is customary to ask for permission before taking photographs of local people.
Safety Tips
Be cautious of pickpockets and bag snatchers in crowded tourist areas like Ho Chi Minh City's District 1.
Use only reputable taxi companies or ride-hailing apps like Grab to avoid being overcharged.
Cross the street slowly and predictably, as traffic in major cities is dense and follows a unique flow.
Drink only bottled or purified water to avoid gastrointestinal issues, and be wary of ice in rural regions.
Keep a digital and physical copy of your passport and visa documents in a secure place at all times.
Be aware of common tourist scams involving inflated prices or unsolicited tours, and always negotiate prices in advance.
AI-generated content. Visa requirements vary by nationality — verify with the official embassy before travel.
Japanese Encephalitis
Source: CDC
Recommended for travelers who are moving to an area with Japanese encephalitis to live, spend long periods of time (a month or more) in areas with Japanese encephalitis, or frequently travel to areas with Japanese encephalitis.
View sourceHepatitis B
Source: CDC
Recommended for unvaccinated travelers of all ages traveling to Vietnam.
View sourceHepatitis A
Source: CDC
Recommended for unvaccinated travelers one year old or older going to Vietnam. Infants 6 to 11 months old should also be vaccinated against Hepatitis A. The dose does not count toward the routine 2-dose series.
View sourceCore Vaccines
Chikungunya prevention
Source: CDC
All travelers should take steps to prevent mosquito bites to reduce the risk of chikungunya.
Chikungunya vaccination is generally not recommended. Travelers who wish to consider vaccination can visit 'What to consider before traveling' on the chikungunya vaccines page to learn more.
View sourceMeasles-Mumps-Rubella (MMR) vaccine
Source: CDC
All international travelers should be fully vaccinated against measles with the MMR vaccine, according to CDC's measles vaccination recommendations for international travel.
Measles cases are rising in many countries around the world.
View sourceCOVID-19
Source: CDC
All eligible travelers should be up to date with their COVID-19 vaccines.
Please see Your COVID-19 Vaccination for more information.
View sourceTravel insurance
Source: ECDC
Before and during travel
Obtain comprehensive travel insurance covering medical expenses, including potential COVID-19-related incidents.
View sourceMosquito bite prevention
Source: ECDC
During travel in malaria-endemic areas
Use insect repellent, wear long-sleeved clothing, and sleep under mosquito nets to prevent mosquito bites.
View sourceTdap (tetanus, diphtheria, pertussis)
Source: CDC
Routine vaccination is recommended for all travelers prior to travel.
View sourceMMR (measles, mumps, rubella)
Source: CDC
Routine vaccination is recommended for all travelers prior to travel.
View sourceFor Most Travelers
Food and water safety precautions
Source: CDC
To reduce the risk of food- and waterborne illnesses.
Drink bottled or boiled water and eat well-cooked food.
View sourceItinerary-Specific
Insect bite prevention measures
Source: CDC
Due to the risk of mosquito-borne illnesses.
Use insect repellent with DEET and wear protective clothing.
View sourceRisk Area: Rural areas only; rare cases in the Mekong and Red River Deltas
Chemoprophylaxis: Atovaquone-proguanil, doxycycline, mefloquine, tafenoquine
Seasonality: Year-round
View source