Vietnam—a land of vibrant energy and cultural charm—is increasingly becoming a top destination for Chinese travelers. Whether you are planning to soak in the ancient atmosphere of Hanoi, relax on the beaches of Da Nang, or experience the bustling urban life of Ho Chi Minh City, understanding the latest visa regulations is the most critical step of your trip. This article provides a comprehensive analysis of the 2026 Vietnam visa regulations for Mainland Chinese citizens and a complete application guide to ensure a smooth start to your journey.
Do Chinese Citizens Need a Visa for Vietnam?
Yes. According to the 2026 entry regulations, Mainland Chinese passport holders traveling for tourism, business, or visiting relatives must obtain a valid visa in advance. As of now, Vietnam has not granted unilateral visa-free status to China, so every traveler must prepare a visa before departure.
⚠️ The Only Exception: Phu Quoc Island Phu Quoc is currently the only region in Vietnam offering visa-free entry for Chinese passport holders for up to 30 days, provided the following conditions are met:
- Passport must be valid for at least 6 months.
- Must hold a return ticket or a ticket to a third country.
- Must fly directly to Phu Quoc (or transit through a foreign country directly to Phu Quoc without leaving the transit area).
- Travel must be restricted to Phu Quoc. A visa is required if traveling to the mainland.
APEC Business Travel Card (ABTC) Holders
Business travelers holding an ABTC can enter Vietnam visa-free when accompanied by a valid passport. ABTC holders enjoy multiple-entry status for up to five years, with stays typically ranging from 60 to 90 days per entry.
Available Vietnam Visa Types for Chinese Citizens in 2026
Based on the latest 2026 policies, Mainland Chinese citizens (including holders of both G-series and E-series “Electronic” passports) can apply for the following:
By Application Method:
| Method | Description |
|---|---|
| E-Visa | The most popular and convenient method. Processed entirely online; print the PDF to enter. |
| Visa on Arrival (VOA) | Requires a Pre-approval Letter. The actual visa is issued upon arrival at the airport. |
| Embassy/Consulate Visa | Applied for at Vietnamese diplomatic missions (Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou, etc.). |
By Validity and Entries:
| Visa Type | Single Entry | Multiple Entry |
|---|---|---|
| 30-Day Visa | âś“ | âś“ |
| 90-Day Visa | âś“ | âś“ |
2026 Policy Update: Chinese citizens are fully eligible for the 90-day multiple-entry E-Visa. This allows you to exit and re-enter Vietnam freely (e.g., visiting Cambodia or Thailand and returning) without re-applying.
Vietnam E-Visa: The Recommended Choice for 2026
Since the policy expansion, the E-Visa has been the mainstream choice for Chinese travelers. It allows stays up to 90 days with multiple entries.
Requirements for Application:
- Passport: Valid for at least 6 months from the date of entry.
- Digital Passport Scan: Clear photo/scan of the data page (JPEG).
- ID Photo: Recent color photo with a white background (no glasses, ears visible).
- Email: A valid address for receiving the visa results.
- Payment: Credit or debit card.
Fees and Processing Time
Agency Expedited Service Fees (Full-Service)
Includes government fees and service fees with guaranteed delivery.
Tourist E-Visa Fees:
| Processing Time | 1M Single | 1M Multiple | 3M Single | 3M Multiple |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 4 Working Days | 70 USD | 100 USD | 90 USD | 120 USD |
| 3 Working Days | 90 USD | 120 USD | 110 USD | 140 USD |
| 2 Working Days | 110 USD | 140 USD | 130 USD | 160 USD |
| 1 Working Day | 150 USD | 180 USD | 170 USD | 200 USD |
| 4 Working Hours | 180 USD | 220 USD | 210 USD | 240 USD |
Business E-Visa Fees:
| Processing Time | 1M Single | 1M Multiple | 3M Single | 3M Multiple |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 4 Working Days | 80 USD | 110 USD | 100 USD | 130 USD |
| 3 Working Days | 100 USD | 130 USD | 120 USD | 150 USD |
| 2 Working Days | 120 USD | 150 USD | 140 USD | 170 USD |
| 1 Working Day | 160 USD | 190 USD | 180 USD | 210 USD |
| 4 Working Hours | 200 USD | 230 USD | 220 USD | 250 USD |
Step-by-Step E-Visa Application Guide
- Visit the Website: Go to the official portal or use our simplified Chinese agency portal: https://www.vietnam-visa.tw/apply/.
- Fill the Form: Enter nationality (China), purpose of visit, entry/exit ports, and dates.
- Upload Files: Upload your passport scan (ensure the MRZ code at the bottom is clear) and ID photo.
- Payment: Review your data carefully and pay.
- Download & Print: Once approved, download the PDF and print it out. Note: Border agents often require a physical paper copy.
Vietnam Entry Regulations (2026 Update)
- Electronic Entry Declaration: As of April 15, 2026, all non-Vietnamese travelers entering through Ho Chi Minh City (SGN) must complete an online entry declaration 72 hours before arrival.
- New Law (July 1, 2026): A new amendment to the entry/exit law will further simplify E-Visa processes for major tourism source markets, including China.
- E-Series Passports: Holders of newer Chinese electronic passports (starting with ‘E’) should ensure their E-visa printout is kept with their passport at all times, as the visa is not physically stamped into the passport.
Contact Us
For assistance or questions:
- Email: info@vietnam-visa.tw
- LINE: https://line.me/ti/p/nqB711G8TX
- WeChat: vietnam-visa
We provide 24/7 consultation and emergency services. Have a wonderful trip to Vietnam!
