Vietnam

All travelers must present a valid passport to enter Vietnam. Entry requirements vary depending on your nationality:

Visa-Free Entry

Citizens of several countries, including those from ASEAN member states (such as Thailand, Indonesia, Malaysia, Singapore, and the Philippines), can enter Vietnam without a visa for stays ranging from 14 to 30 days. Additionally, citizens of Japan, South Korea, and select European countries, including the United Kingdom, France, and Germany, are granted visa-free entry for short stays (typically 15-30 days).

e-Visa

Citizens of over 80 countries, including the United States, Australia, Canada, and most European Union nations, are eligible to apply for an e-Visa. The e-Visa allows entry for up to 30 days and can be obtained online before arrival.

Visa Required

Travelers from countries not on the visa-exempt or e-Visa lists must apply for a visa before entering Vietnam. A valid passport and application are necessary, and visas can be obtained through embassies or consulates.

Always check the latest entry requirements based on your nationality, as visa rules may change.

Currently, Vietnam does not allow entry with only an ID card. All travelers, including those from ASEAN member countries, are required to present a valid passport upon arrival. There are no ID card entry agreements in place.

Toll Roads in Vietnam

Vietnam has a growing network of toll roads, particularly on highways connecting major cities like Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, and Da Nang. Tolls are used to maintain road infrastructure and vary depending on the distance traveled and the type of vehicle.

Toll Payment Methods:

• Cash: Tolls are typically paid in cash at booths along the highways. Payments are accepted in Vietnamese Dong (VND).
• Electronic Payment (ETC): Vietnam is gradually introducing electronic toll collection (ETC) systems. Drivers can register for ETC tags and top-up their accounts to pass through toll gates without stopping.

Driving Tips in Vietnam:

• Right-Hand Driving: Drive on the right-hand side of the road.
• Seat Belts: Wearing seat belts is mandatory for drivers and front-seat passengers.
• Speed Limits: Urban areas: 40-60 km/h, highways: 80-120 km/h, depending on the road.
• Road Conditions: Major highways are well-maintained, but rural roads can be narrow and in poor condition. Be cautious when driving in less-developed areas.

Weather in Vietnam

Vietnam has a diverse climate, influenced by its elongated geography. Northern Vietnam experiences a subtropical climate with distinct seasons, while the central and southern regions have tropical climates with high temperatures year-round.

Winter and Spring (November to April) in the North

Northern Vietnam, including Hanoi, experiences cool to cold weather during winter, with temperatures ranging from 10°C to 20°C (50°F to 68°F). Spring is milder and more pleasant, making it a great time for outdoor activities.

Monsoon Season (May to October) in the South

The southern regions, including Ho Chi Minh City, experience a tropical monsoon climate with heavy rainfall during the summer months. Despite the rain, temperatures remain warm, ranging from 25°C to 35°C (77°F to 95°F).

Travel Tips

• Best Time to Visit: The months of November to April are the most favorable for visiting Vietnam, with cooler temperatures and less rain.
• Monsoon Precautions: If visiting during the wet season, bring waterproof clothing and be prepared for occasional floods, especially in low-lying areas.

Currency in Vietnam

The official currency of Vietnam is the Vietnamese Dong (VND), symbolized as ₫. The Dong is used throughout the country for all transactions.

Banknotes and Coins

The Dong is available in banknotes of 1,000, 2,000, 5,000, 10,000, 20,000, 50,000, 100,000, 200,000, and 500,000 VND. Coins are rarely used in daily transactions.

Currency Exchange

Currency exchange services are available in banks, hotels, and authorized money exchange centers. ATMs are widely available in major cities and tourist areas, allowing you to withdraw VND directly from your account.

Credit and Debit Cards

Credit and debit cards are accepted in most hotels, restaurants, and large stores in urban areas. However, in rural areas, cash is the preferred payment method, so it’s advisable to carry VND for small transactions.

Travel Tips

• Notify Your Bank: Inform your bank about your travel plans to avoid issues with card transactions in Vietnam.
• Currency Conversion Fees: Be aware of currency conversion fees when using international cards.
• Small Denominations: Carry small denominations of cash for transportation, market purchases, and tips, as larger notes may not be accepted for minor purchases.