International Travel to Vietnam: Complete Guide from A to Z
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According to Vietnam Briefing, Vietnam has reopened its doors to international tourists since March 15th, 2022 – after more than 2 years of dealing with COVID-19. Tourists from all over the world can now travel to Vietnam using various modes of transportation, such as by plane, train, bus, or private car. Below, we will provide you with essential information for traveling to Vietnam such as entry requirements and procedures enter Vietnam.
Entry requirements in Vietnam
Here are the entry requirements for Malaysian citizens to Vietnam – in brief:
| Passport validity | Must have six months of validity remaining beyond the intended duration of stay in Vietnam. |
| Blank passport pages | At least one available blank visa page in your passport for the entry stamp when entering Vietnam. |
| Entry visa required | Vietnam offers visa exemptions for Malaysian citizens for stays of up to 30 days. Thus, an entry visa is only required if you stay longer than 30 days. |
| Vaccinations | Since May 15th, 2022, Vietnam no longer asks visitors to submit a test for COVID-19 as the country already controls the pandemic. |
Note: As entry requirements may change over time, you should check the current regulations with the Vietnamese embassy or consulate or with your travel agency in advance.
Passport Validity
Understand the validity of your passport if you travel to Vietnam
As clearly stated at Vietnam-Immigration.Org.Vn, foreign citizens are required to have a passport that is valid for at least six months longer than the period you intend to stay in Vietnam. Thus, it is advisable to review your passport before the trip if it is set to expire within the next six months.
Supposing that you are traveling with your family and your children are under 14 years old, you can also replace a passport with a birth certificate and a stamped portrait picture.
Visa policy
Do you need to apply for a visa to Vietnam?
As mentioned, an entry visa can be either exempt or required – depending on how long you plan to stay in Vietnam.
| Visa exemption | For Malaysian citizens, a member country of ASEAN, travelers are exempt from visas for a maximum of 30 days. For citizens of other countries, the duration of visa exemption may be shorter or longer, for example: Myanmar: 14 days United Kingdom: 15 days Philippines: 21 days Thailand: 30 days |
| Visa required | If you have intentions of staying in Vietnam longer than the duration permitted by the visa exemption, you must obtain a visa such as China, Taiwan… |
How Do You Apply for a Vietnamese Visa ?
You can apply for a regular visa, e-visa, or visa on arrival
Regular Visa
If you do not bother going to the Vietnamese embassy directly, you may apply for a regular visa in the form of a tourist visa, business visa, or diplomatic visa.
- A tourist visa is ideal if you are traveling to Vietnam solely for tourism.
- A business visa is granted if you are traveling to Vietnam to collaborate with legal businesses and organizations, provide services, establish a commercial presence, or conduct activities outlined in international treaties.
- A diplomatic visa is granted if you are invited by Vietnamese ministries or high-ranking government officials for official visits to Vietnam.
E-Visa
Vietnam also allows passengers to apply for an electronic visa, or for short, an e-visa.
Simply register for it online through the Vietnam Immigration website at xuatnhapcanh.gov.vn and receive an electronic visa document that permits entry into Vietnam.
Generally, an e-visa for Vietnam is valid for a single entry and allows a stay of up to 30 days.
Visa on arrival
Otherwise, you have the option to apply for a visa on arrival in Vietnam – at the designated entry points.
For this type of visa, you need to obtain a visa approval letter through a travel company or an online service prior to your arrival.
Upon arrival at any of the designated international airports in Vietnam, it is possible to present the visa approval letter, settle the visa stamping fee, and promptly obtain your visa.
Vietnam Travel Guide for Malaysian Tourists
We would like to share with you a travel guide to Vietnam so that you can take note of some popular destinations, cultural tips, transportation options, and other useful information.
Entry Requirements
Please refer to the entry requirements for Malaysian citizens as mentioned above and ensure that you have all the necessary documents and procedures completed before your departure.
Flights
Find flights from Malaysia to Vietnam and book your plane tickets at least 45 days prior to the departure date to choose the appropriate time with the best price and early purchase benefits from Vietnam Airlines.
Flight Route | Date (specific day in a week) | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Total Flight Duration |
| KUL -> SGN | Tuesday, Thursday, Friday, Sunday | 7:10 PM | 8:25 PM | 2 hrs 15 mins |
| KUL -> SGN | Everyday | 12:30 PM | 2:00 PM | 2 hrs 30 mins |
| KUL -> HAN | Sunday, Thursday, Friday | 8:00 PM | 10:05 PM | 3 hrs 5 mins |
Note: The flight information is current as of October 2023 and is subject to potential fluctuations.
Currency
You should exchange for VND currency at the airport, local banks, or authorized currency exchange counters. This will enable you to shop and pay for services in Vietnam more easily.
Language
Vietnamese and English are commonly spoken in Vietnam; however, it is advisable to carry a dictionary or install a translation app to communicate with locals who may not be fluent in English.
Weather
Vietnam has diverse weather from the North to the South. Therefore, we recommend checking the weather conditions for the specific region you plan to visit and packing appropriate clothing and accessories based on the weather.
Transportation
You have various options for transportation in Vietnam, such as taxis, motorbikes, buses, trains, or flights. For convenience and safety, we suggest that you use reputable taxi services or ride-hailing apps. If you want to rent a motorbike, make sure that you have a valid license and wear a helmet.
Attractions
Vietnam offers countless attractions, including vibrant cities, stunning landscapes, historical landmarks, and beautiful beaches. Hanoi, Halong Bay, Hoi An, Nha Trang, Da Nang, and Ho Chi Minh City are among the well-liked destinations in Vietnam. Research and plan your itinerary by considering your personal preferences and the time you have at your disposal.