Whether you are a digital nomad based in Bangkok, a backpacker in Chiang Mai, or a traveler holidaying in Phuket and planning a quick side trip to Vietnam—traveling from Thailand to Vietnam is one of the most convenient short-haul journeys in Southeast Asia. But how does the visa process work? Do Thai passport holders need a visa? How does the process differ for foreigners currently residing in or traveling through Thailand? This guide provides all the answers.
I. Do Thai Citizens Need a Visa for Vietnam?
Answer: No (for stays up to 30 days). As of 2026, Thai citizens traveling to Vietnam for tourism purposes enjoy a 30-day visa exemption. Thailand is on Vietnam’s unilateral visa exemption list, alongside other ASEAN members like Singapore, Malaysia, Indonesia, and Cambodia.
⚠️ You must apply for a visa if:
- You plan to stay in Vietnam for more than 30 days.
- You are traveling for business, work, or investment.
- You are visiting for media or journalistic purposes.
- You require multiple entries within 30 days (the exemption is for single entry only).
🏝️ Phu Quoc Island Special Rule: Thai passport holders visiting Phu Quoc Island also enjoy a 30-day visa exemption. The conditions are the same as entering the Vietnamese mainland: passport must be valid for at least 6 months and you must hold proof of an onward/return ticket.
II. Foreign Citizens Applying for a Vietnam Visa in Thailand
If you are not a Thai citizen—regardless of whether you are a tourist or a resident—you must obtain a visa before entering Vietnam.
| Passport Holder | Visa Requirement |
|---|---|
| Hong Kong (HKSAR) | Visa required; E-Visa eligible |
| Mainland China | Visa required; E-Visa eligible |
| Taiwan | Visa required; E-Visa eligible |
| USA / Canada / Australia / India | Visa required; E-Visa eligible |
| BNO (British National Overseas) | Visa required; No E-Visa, must use VOA |
Great news: Almost all nationalities currently in Thailand can apply for the Vietnam E-Visa entirely online. There is no need to visit a consulate; you can complete the process from your hotel using a computer or smartphone.
III. 2026–2027 Visa Options Overview
1. E-Visa (⭐ Highly Recommended)
The E-Visa is the mainstream choice for travelers in Thailand.
- Validity: Up to 90 days.
- Entry: Single or Multiple entry.
- Ports of Entry: 42 designated international ports (airports, land borders, seaports).
- Process: Fully online; print the PDF visa for entry.
Required Documents:
- Scanned copy of passport data page (valid for at least 6 months from the date of departure).
- Recent 4x6cm portrait photo (white background, no glasses).
- Address of the first hotel in Vietnam.
- Credit card or PayPal for payment.
Apply here (choose “E-Visa”): https://www.vietnam-visa.in/apply-vietnam-visa/
2. Visa on Arrival (VOA)
⚠️ Important Update: The standard “Visa on Arrival Approval Letter” system for general tourists has been discontinued.
- Exception: Only BNO passport holders still need to use the VOA process, which involves obtaining an approval letter in advance to exchange for a visa sticker at the airport.
- Apply here (choose “VOA”): https://www.vietnam-visa.in/apply-vietnam-visa/
3. Vietnam Consulate/Embassy
Used only for special cases (e.g., long-term work visas, diplomatic visas).
- Bangkok: 83/1 Wireless Road, Lumpini, Pathumwan, Bangkok.
- Khon Kaen: 65/6 Chatapadung, Khon Kaen.
IV. 2026–2027 Visa Fees and Processing Time
E-Visa Fees (For most nationalities)
| Processing Time | 1 Month Single | 1 Month Multiple | 3 Months Single | 3 Months 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-Hour Rush | $180 USD | $220 USD | $210 USD | $240 USD |
BNO Passport Holders (VOA Fees)
| Visa Type | Service Fee (Online) | Stamping Fee (Airport Cash) |
|---|---|---|
| 1 Month Single | $45 USD | $25 USD |
| 1 Month Multiple | $50 USD | $50 USD |
V. Transportation: Getting to Vietnam from Thailand
✈️ Flights
Flights between Thailand and Vietnam are frequent and short:
- Bangkok to Ho Chi Minh City (SGN): 1.5–2 hours.
- Bangkok to Hanoi (HAN): ~2 hours.
- Bangkok to Da Nang (DAD): ~1.5 hours.
- Bangkok to Nha Trang (CXR): ~1 hour 55 mins.
- Bangkok to Phu Quoc (PQC): ~1 hour 23 mins.
🚌 Land Border
You can travel from Thailand to Vietnam via Laos. The 5th Thai-Lao Friendship Bridge (opened Dec 2025) is a popular route.
- Warning: You must have a pre-approved visa (or be visa-exempt) before arriving at the land border. Ensure your E-Visa allows entry at your specific land port.
🚗 Getting Around in Vietnam
- Grab: The best ride-hailing app.
- Taxis: Use Mai Linh (green) or Vinasun (white).
- Motorbike Rental: Popular for adventurous travelers.
VI. 2026 Entry Regulations – Must Read
📋 Online Arrival Declaration (Effective April 2026): All travelers flying from Thailand must complete an online declaration within 72 hours before departure.
- Portal: prearrival.immigration.gov.vn
- You will receive a Fast-Track Entry QR Code to scan at the immigration counter. (Yes, this applies to Thai citizens too!)
📄 Essential Documents Checklist:
- Passport: At least 6 months validity from your departure date.
- E-Visa: Printed PDF.
- Flight/Hotel Proof: Onward tickets and initial hotel confirmation.
- QR Code: Online entry declaration.
VII. Best Time to Visit
- North (Hanoi/Ha Long Bay): September to November.
- Central (Da Nang/Hoi An): January to August.
- South (Ho Chi Minh City): Dry season from December to April.
VIII. Useful Apps
- Grab: Rides and food delivery.
- Google Maps: Navigation.
- Google Translate: Vietnamese language support.
- Zalo: The local communication app.
IX. Airport Fast-Track Service
Avoid long queues at SGN or HAN airports. 👉 Book Fast-Track Service here: https://www.vietnam-visa.in/fast-track-service/
X. Important Visa Tips
- For Thai Citizens: Enjoy 30-day exemption; apply for E-Visa if staying longer.
- For Foreign Citizens: E-Visa is the easiest route. Ensure your name matches the Machine Readable Zone (MRZ) of your passport exactly.
- General: Always check your port of entry and ensure your visa covers it. Leave at least 10 working days for processing.
Need help? Contact us to ensure a smooth trip!
- Website： https://www.vietnam-visa.in/apply-vietnam-visa/
- VIP Fast-Track: https://www.vietnam-visa.in/fast-track-service/
- Urgent Processing: https://www.vietnam-visa.in/boost-your-e-visa-application-form/
- Email: info@vietnam-visa.in
- LINE/WeChat: vietnam-visa
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