You need a visa for Vietnam if you hold South African passport

Do South African citizens need a visa for Vietnam?

Yes. All South African citizens holding ordinary passports are required to obtain a valid visa to enter Vietnam. There is currently no visa-free entry for South African tourists or business travelers.

Does any exemption apply to South African citizens?

- Phu Quoc Island: A 30-day visa exemption applies only if you arrive directly from an international destination and remain solely on the island.

- 5-Year Visa Exemption: Available to Vietnamese South African and their immediate family members (spouses and children).

How do I apply for a visa?

The electronic visa (e-visa) is the standard method in 2026.

1- Portal: Apply through the official government website at evisa.xuatnhapcanh.gov.vn.

2- Documents required: You need a digital scan of your passport bio page and a 4x6 cm portrait photo with a white background and no glasses.

3- Approval: Once approved, you must print your e-visa and present it at the border.

How much does it cost?

Please refer to the table below for the official e-visa fees:

Visa Type	Fee (USD)
E-visa – Single Entry (15–90 days)	$25.00 (~408 ZAR)
E-visa – Multiple Entry (15–90 days)	$50.00 (~816 ZAR)

Can South African passports get a visa on arrival at Vietnam airport?

No. In 2026, the traditional “visa on arrival” (VOA), where you simply arrive and receive a visa, is no longer available. If you wish to obtain a visa at the airport, you must first secure a visa-approval letter through a competent visa agency before departure. For most travelers, including South African passport holders, the e-visa is the more convenient and cost-effective option.

How long does it take to get a Vietnam visa?

The standard processing time for an e-visa is 3 to 5 working days. However, during peak travel seasons or Vietnamese public holidays, it may take up to 10 working days. It is highly recommended that you apply at least 2 weeks before departure.

Please note that the South Africa is about 5.0 hours behind Vietnam. Be sure to check the time difference carefully to choose the correct application time.

How can South African passport holders get an emergency visa?

If you have an immediate flight, authorized agencies may provide expedited e-visas or emergency approval letters within 1 to 4 hours. These services involve significantly higher service fees in addition to the government visa fee.

Service Level	Processing Time	Estimated Fee (USD)
Normal	3 working days	$25 (single) / $50 (multiple)
Urgent	2 working days	$95–$125 (~1,550–2,040 ZAR)
Emergency	1 working day	$135–$170 (~2,203–2,774 ZAR)
Super Rush / Holiday	Within 2 hours	$185–$250+ (~1,550–2,040 ZAR+)

Do South African citizens need a transit visa?

No, provided that you remain in the international transit area for less than 24 hours and your baggage is checked through to your final destination. If you need to leave the airport to collect your baggage or change terminals, you must hold a valid visa.

• Vietnam eVisa is available for both tourism and business purposes.
• It permits a stay of up to 90 days
• Once accepted, the eVisa will be sent directly to your email.
• Make sure to apply at least 7-10 working days before your departure