What is the difference between a Vietnam single-entry and a multiple-entry visa?
The main difference between these two visa types is that a single-entry visa allows entry to Vietnam one time only, while a multiple-entry visa allows entry many times before the visa expires.
Which type of visa should you get?
If your trip involves only one entry into Vietnam, a single-entry visa is usually sufficient. If you expect to leave Vietnam and return again during the validity period, a multiple-entry visa will be more appropriate.
What are the main visa categories in Vietnam?
Under Vietnam’s immigration law, Vietnam visas are issued in a number of categories depending on the purpose of entry. The main visa categories commonly used by foreign nationals include the following:
| Visa category | Main purpose |
|---|---|
| DL | Tourism |
| DN1 / DN2 | Business and commercial activities |
| LĐ1 / LĐ2 | Employment and labour-related purposes |
| TT | Visiting relatives |
| ĐT1 / ĐT2 / ĐT3 / ĐT4 | Investment |
| EV | Electronic visa |
A single-entry visa or a multiple-entry visa is not a separate visa category in itself. Rather, it refers to the number of times the visa holder is permitted to enter Vietnam during the validity of the visa.
What is a single-entry visa?
A single-entry visa allows one entry into Vietnam during the validity period of the visa. Once the visa holder leaves Vietnam, the visa ceases to be valid, even if the visa validity period has not yet expired. If re-entry is required, a new visa must be obtained in advance.
Single-entry visas are commonly used for short stays for purposes such as tourism, short business visits, or family visits.
| Visa type | Main feature |
|---|---|
| 15-day single-entry visa | One entry only during a short permitted stay. |
| 1-month single-entry visa | One entry only within a validity period of 1 month. |
| 3-month single-entry visa | One entry only within a validity period of up to 3 months. |
What is a multiple-entry visa?
A multiple-entry visa allows more than one entry into Vietnam during the validity period of the visa. This means that the visa holder may enter and leave Vietnam more than once without obtaining a new visa, provided that the visa remains valid at the time of each entry.
Multiple-entry visas are suitable for persons who need to travel in and out of Vietnam more frequently during the approved period of stay.
| Visa type | Main feature |
|---|---|
| 1-month multiple-entry visa | Multiple entries permitted within a validity period of 1 month. |
| 3-month multiple-entry visa | Multiple entries permitted within a validity period of up to 3 months. |
| Longer-term multiple-entry visa | May be available in certain cases, depending on visa type and approval. |
Comparison between a single-entry visa and a multiple-entry visa
| Point | Explanation |
|---|---|
| Purpose of entry | Both single-entry and multiple-entry visas may be issued for purposes such as tourism, business, or visiting relatives, depending on the applicable visa category. |
| Application requirements | Both visa types require similar supporting documents, such as a passport, photograph, temporary address details, and other relevant information. |
| Processing time | The processing time is similar for both visa types. In many cases, the result may be available within approximately 4 to 5 working days. |
Main differences
| Criteria | Single-entry visa | Multiple-entry visa |
|---|---|---|
| Number of entries | One entry only | Multiple entries permitted during the validity period |
| Validity and use | Usually used for one continuous trip | Suitable for repeated travel in and out of Vietnam |
| Cost | 25 USD | 50-135 USD |
| Best suited for | Short visits with no plan to leave and re-enter Vietnam | Travellers who need to enter Vietnam more than once during the visa validity period |
Which one should you choose?
If only one entry into Vietnam is required, a single-entry visa is usually the more appropriate option. If departure from Vietnam and re-entry are expected during the same trip, a multiple-entry visa is the better choice.
| If your travel plan is as follows | The more suitable visa type is usually |
|---|---|
| One trip to Vietnam with no exit during the stay | Single-entry visa |
| Travel to Vietnam, then exit to another country, then return to Vietnam again | Multiple-entry visa |
| Frequent business travel to Vietnam during the visa validity period | Multiple-entry visa |
| Short tourism visit only | Single-entry visa |
If you leave Vietnam while holding a single-entry visa, that visa will no longer be valid for re-entry. A new visa will then be required.
Related articles
- Do I Need to Wait 30 Days Before Re-entering Vietnam Under Visa Exemption?
- What to Do If Your Vietnam e-Visa Is Not Approved in Time
- My Vietnam e-visa is issued with wrong or incorrect information. What should I do?
- Can I Change the Port of Entry After My Vietnam E-Visa Is Issued?
- I lost my original application code. How can I track my Vietnam visa application status?
- Vietnam e-Visa Stuck at “In Processing” After 5 Days: When to Worry?
