Article 7 defines how long a Vietnam visa is valid and which forms it can take. Visas may be single-entry or multiple-entry; the maximum validity depends on the visa category (see Article 9—tourism, business, work, investment, etc.). Vietnam issues visas as (1) a passport sticker/stamp, (2) a separate loose-leaf document, or (3) an electronic visa (e-Visa). A strict “one visa–one passport” rule applies—use the same passport for application, entry, exit, and residence.
Who this helps (and the problems it solves)
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Tourists & business travelers wondering: “How long can I stay and which visa format should I choose—e-Visa or sticker?”
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Expats/students checking if multiple entries are possible within their stay.
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Airlines, hotels, employers, landlords verifying document form and validity for check-in and compliance.
1) Visa validity at a glance
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Single vs multiple entry: Choose based on your itinerary (one trip vs. regional hops).
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Maximum validity: Determined by visa category (Article 9).
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e-Visa reference (popular): Typically up to 90 days, single or multiple entry (choose at application).
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Expiry matters: Once expired, the visa cannot be used for entry or continued stay; overstay may incur fines or removal.
Tip: If your plans include re-entering Vietnam (e.g., side trips to Cambodia/Laos/Thailand), select a multiple-entry option upfront.
2) Forms of Vietnam visas (what travelers actually receive)
| Form | What you’ll have | Best for | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Passport sticker/stamp | Visa label affixed in your passport | Long-stay, work/residence categories, embassy/consulate processing | Issued abroad or upon arrival when using a pre-approval letter (VOA path). |
| Loose-leaf (separate sheet) | Paper visa attached to your passport | Passport constraints (full pages, special cases) | Keep it with your passport at all times; it’s valid only with the same passport. |
| Electronic Visa (e-Visa) | PDF approval to print and carry | Short trips (tourism, business), most nationalities | Apply 100% online; choose single or multiple entry; check approved ports of entry. |
VOA (Visa on Arrival): You must hold a pre-approval letter first; the final form you receive at the airport is the sticker/stamp.
3) The “one visa – one passport” rule (avoid mismatches)
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Apply with one passport and use that same passport for: application → entry → exit → temporary residence registration.
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Do not switch to another nationality’s passport mid-trip—this can invalidate your visa at the border.
4) Real-world scenarios (answer-style)
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Dual-citizen traveler: Applied with Passport A? Fly, enter, and exit using Passport A only.
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City-hopper itinerary: Planning to visit Phu Quoc → Siem Reap → Ho Chi Minh City? Choose multiple-entry to avoid a second application.
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Nearly full passport: Request a loose-leaf visa (where applicable) or use an e-Visa to save pages.
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Airline check-in: Staff will confirm the passport number matches your e-Visa PDF and that your arrival airport is an approved e-Visa port.
5) Traveler checklist (copy/paste)
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✅ Pick the right entry type: single vs. multiple based on your route
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✅ Confirm the form: e-Visa PDF, sticker, or loose-leaf—and print your e-Visa
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✅ Match passports: the passport used to apply = the passport you carry
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✅ Check validity: passport ≥ 6 months beyond entry; visa dates cover your stay
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✅ Approved ports: your entry point must be on your visa/e-Visa
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✅ Keep copies: carry printed visa/e-Visa PDF; store a digital backup
6) Common pitfalls (and how to avoid them)
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❌ Arriving at the wrong port (not listed on your e-Visa) → Denied boarding/entry
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❌ Switching passports after approval → Record mismatch at immigration
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❌ Choosing single-entry but planning side trips → Need a new visa mid-journey
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❌ Letting validity lapse while still in Vietnam → risk of overstay penalties
FAQs
Q: Is the e-Visa always 90 days?
A: It can be up to 90 days; select single or multiple entry at application and verify your approval letter.
Q: Can I convert single-entry to multiple-entry after approval?
A: Generally no; plan your entry type correctly before applying.
Q: If my passport renews, can I travel with the old visa?
A: Usually you’ll carry both passports (old with visa + new valid passport) or reapply—follow current guidance for your case.
VietnamEntryVisa.com (operated by Nguyen Adventure, trusted since 2010 with strong Trustpilot/Tripadvisor ratings) helps you:
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Choose correct validity and entry type (single vs multiple) for your itinerary
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Pre-check documents (names, numbers, ports) to avoid check-in issues
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Secure fast processing when timing is tight (Standard, 1-Day, Same-Day, Holiday)
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Get port-of-entry guidance and clear instructions on printing/boarding
Apply confidently—match your travel plan to the right visa form and validity.
Start your application at VietnamEntryVisa.com.