Vietnam
Southeast Asia • VNM
Last updated: May 8, 2026
Vietnam is a captivating Southeast Asian country known for its breathtaking landscapes, rich history, and incredible street food culture. From the bustling streets of Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City to the serene beauty of Ha Long Bay, travelers will find a blend of traditional heritage and rapid modern development.
Visa Requirements
Most nationalities, including many Western countries, require an E-visa to enter Vietnam for tourism purposes, which is valid for up to 90 days.
Typically Required Documents
- Passport with at least six months validity
- Digital passport-sized photograph
- Scanned copy of the passport biographical page
- Credit card for visa processing fee payment
- Return or onward travel ticket
Popular Attractions
Ha Long Bay features thousands of towering limestone karsts and isles in various shapes and sizes, perfect for overnight boat cruises.
The ancient town of Hoi An is a beautifully preserved trading port, famous for its colorful lanterns and tailor shops.
Hanoi, the capital city, offers a vibrant old quarter filled with French colonial architecture, ancient temples, and lively markets.
The Cu Chi Tunnels provide a fascinating look into the underground life of Vietnamese soldiers during the war, stretching for hundreds of kilometers.
Sapa is a mountainous region in the north, renowned for its stunning terraced rice paddies and unique hill tribe cultures.
Local Customs & Etiquette
Always dress modestly when visiting temples or pagodas by covering your shoulders and knees.
Remove your shoes before entering someone's home or certain traditional guesthouses.
Avoid pointing your finger directly at people or objects, as it is considered impolite; use your whole hand instead.
Refrain from public displays of affection, as this is culturally discouraged in more conservative areas.
Keep your voice low and avoid confrontational behavior, as 'saving face' is an important social concept.
When giving or receiving items, use both hands to show respect to the other person.
Safety Tips
Be cautious of motorbike bag snatching; keep your bags away from the street side while walking.
Only use reputable taxi companies like Vinasun or Mai Linh to avoid overcharging or scams.
Always wear a helmet if you choose to rent a motorbike, and ensure you have the appropriate international driving permit.
Keep your passport and important documents in a hotel safe rather than carrying them with you at all times.
Be wary of common tourist scams involving street vendors or inflated prices for goods; always negotiate prices in advance.
Drink only bottled or filtered water to prevent stomach-related illnesses while traveling.
AI-generated content. Visa requirements vary by nationality — verify with the official embassy before travel.
Japanese Encephalitis
Source: CDC
Recommended for travelers who are moving to an area with Japanese encephalitis to live, spend long periods of time (a month or more) in areas with Japanese encephalitis, or frequently travel to areas with Japanese encephalitis.
View sourceHepatitis B
Source: CDC
Recommended for unvaccinated travelers of all ages traveling to Vietnam.
View sourceHepatitis A
Source: CDC
Recommended for unvaccinated travelers one year old or older going to Vietnam. Infants 6 to 11 months old should also be vaccinated against Hepatitis A. The dose does not count toward the routine 2-dose series.
View sourceCore Vaccines
Measles-Mumps-Rubella (MMR) vaccine
Source: CDC
All international travelers should be fully vaccinated against measles with the MMR vaccine, according to CDC's measles vaccination recommendations for international travel.
Measles cases are rising in many countries around the world.
View sourceChikungunya prevention
Source: CDC
All travelers should take steps to prevent mosquito bites to reduce the risk of chikungunya.
Chikungunya vaccination is generally not recommended. Travelers who wish to consider vaccination can visit 'What to consider before traveling' on the chikungunya vaccines page to learn more.
View sourceCOVID-19
Source: CDC
All eligible travelers should be up to date with their COVID-19 vaccines.
Please see Your COVID-19 Vaccination for more information.
View sourceTravel insurance
Source: ECDC
Before and during travel
Obtain comprehensive travel insurance covering medical expenses, including potential COVID-19-related incidents.
View sourceMosquito bite prevention
Source: ECDC
During travel in malaria-endemic areas
Use insect repellent, wear long-sleeved clothing, and sleep under mosquito nets to prevent mosquito bites.
View sourceTdap (tetanus, diphtheria, pertussis)
Source: CDC
Routine vaccination is recommended for all travelers prior to travel.
View sourceMMR (measles, mumps, rubella)
Source: CDC
Routine vaccination is recommended for all travelers prior to travel.
View sourceFor Most Travelers
Food and water safety precautions
Source: CDC
To reduce the risk of food- and waterborne illnesses.
Drink bottled or boiled water and eat well-cooked food.
View sourceItinerary-Specific
Insect bite prevention measures
Source: CDC
Due to the risk of mosquito-borne illnesses.
Use insect repellent with DEET and wear protective clothing.
View sourceRisk Area: Rural areas only; rare cases in the Mekong and Red River Deltas
Chemoprophylaxis: Atovaquone-proguanil, doxycycline, mefloquine, tafenoquine
Seasonality: Year-round
View source