Vietnam Visa for Chinese Citizens: Complete Guide 2025
Vietnam and China share not only a long border but also a rich history of trade, culture, and tourism. Every year, thousands of Chinese citizens travel to Vietnam for business, leisure, or family visits. To make the most of your trip, understanding the Vietnam visa for Chinese citizens — including requirements, application process, and visa types — is essential.
Whether you plan a short holiday in Hanoi or a business trip to Ho Chi Minh City, this guide provides all the details you need to apply successfully.
Do Chinese Citizens Need a Visa to Enter Vietnam?
Yes. Chinese citizens must obtain a visa before entering Vietnam, regardless of travel purpose or length of stay. The only exceptions apply to Chinese travelers holding diplomatic or official passports under specific bilateral agreements.
Ordinary passport holders from China can apply for a Vietnam visa in several ways:
- Vietnam e-visa (electronic visa) — ideal for short-term stays of up to 90 days.
- Visa on arrival (VOA) — suitable for air travelers entering through major international airports.
- Embassy or consulate visa — traditional option for longer stays or multiple entries.
Each visa type has different requirements and processing times, so choosing the right one depends on your purpose and urgency of travel.
Types of Vietnam Visa for Chinese Travelers
Before applying, it’s important to determine which visa type matches your travel plan:
- Tourist visa (DL): For sightseeing, visiting friends, or short vacations. Usually valid for 30 or 90 days.
- Business visa (DN): For attending meetings, conferences, or conducting trade activities in Vietnam.
- Student or work visa: For those studying or working long-term in Vietnam under sponsorship.
- Transit visa: For travelers passing through Vietnam to another country.
The most popular options among Chinese travelers are the e-visa and visa on arrival, both offering convenient online processing.
Vietnam E-Visa for Chinese Citizens
The Vietnam e-visa system is the most convenient option for Chinese citizens visiting for up to 90 days. Applicants can complete the process entirely online without visiting the embassy.
Key details:
- Validity: Up to 90 days (single or multiple entry)
- Processing time: 3–5 working days
- Entry points: 42 international checkpoints (including airports, seaports, and land borders)
- Fee: Approximately USD 25–50 depending on the number of entries
To apply, you’ll need:
- A scanned copy of your passport’s bio page
- A recent passport-sized photo (white background)
- A valid email address to receive confirmation
Once approved, your e-visa is sent electronically. You must print it out and present it upon arrival in Vietnam.
See more>> Vietnam visa for Dutch citizens
Visa on Arrival (VOA) for Chinese Travelers
For those entering Vietnam by air, the visa on arrival is another efficient option. However, this method requires you to obtain a visa approval letter before your trip. You cannot board your flight without it.
Here’s how the process works:
- Apply online through a trusted agency before departure.
- Receive your approval letter via email within a few days.
- Present the letter at the airport’s visa counter upon arrival.
- Pay the stamping fee (in USD or VND) and get your visa stamped into your passport.
If your travel date is approaching soon, you can request an Emergency Vietnam visa same day service, which allows you to get approval within a few hours. This option is ideal for last-minute travelers or business professionals with urgent travel plans.
Required Documents for Vietnam Visa Application
Chinese applicants must prepare the following documents before applying:
- A valid Chinese passport with at least six months’ validity beyond your intended stay.
- At least two blank pages for the visa stamp.
- Passport-sized photos (4×6 cm) taken within the last six months.
- Completed visa application form (online or paper-based).
- Visa approval letter, if applying for visa on arrival.
Make sure all uploaded or printed documents are clear and legible. Any mistake, such as an incorrect passport number or unclear photo, can delay processing or cause rejection.
How to Apply for a Vietnam Visa from China
Chinese citizens have three main ways to obtain a Vietnam visa:
1. Apply Online for an E-Visa
Visit the official e-visa website or a reliable agency platform. Complete the online form, upload your photo and passport copy, and pay the processing fee. You’ll receive your visa by email.
2. Apply for a Visa on Arrival
Use a reputable visa service to obtain an approval letter in advance. Present this letter at Vietnam’s airport immigration counter and pay the stamping fee to receive your visa.
3. Apply via the Embassy or Consulate
If you prefer a traditional method, visit the Vietnamese Embassy or Consulate in China (located in Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou, etc.). Submit your application form, photo, and passport, then return to collect your visa once approved.
Each option has advantages. The e-visa is best for short trips, while visa on arrival offers flexibility for urgent travel. Embassy applications suit travelers needing multiple-entry or long-term visas.
Processing Time and Fees
The processing time for Vietnam visas varies by application method:
- E-visa: 3–5 working days
- Visa on arrival: 2–4 working days (or faster for emergency service)
- Embassy application: 5–7 working days
Visa fees also differ:
- E-visa: USD 25 (single entry) / USD 50 (multiple entry)
- Visa on arrival: Service fee + stamping fee (usually USD 25–50 total)
Fees are non-refundable, even if your application is rejected, so double-check all details before submitting.
Important Travel Tips for Chinese Visitors
To ensure smooth entry into Vietnam, keep these points in mind:
- Print out your e-visa or approval letter and keep it with your passport.
- Check that your passport has at least six months’ validity from your date of arrival.
- Avoid overstaying your visa — fines may apply.
- Always verify entry points listed on your visa (some are specific).
- Prepare cash (USD or VND) for visa-on-arrival stamping fees at the airport.
Getting a Vietnam visa for Chinese citizens is easier than ever thanks to the availability of e-visas and online processing options. Whether you’re traveling for tourism, business, or family purposes, you can complete most steps conveniently from home.