Vietnam Visa for New Zealand: A Complete Guide for 2026

New Zealand citizens traveling to Vietnam need to be aware of specific visa requirements based on the length and purpose of their stay. While trips up to 30 days are visa-free, longer visits, whether for tourism, business, or work, require a Vietnam visa.

In this guide by Your Vietnam Travel, we will walk you through the essential visa options, the required documents, and the application process. You'll also find tips for a fast and hassle-free visa application to make your trip to Vietnam as smooth as possible.

Do New Zealand citizens need a visa to enter Vietnam?

New Zealand passport holders are generally required to obtain a visa to enter Vietnam, except in certain cases.

• For stays up to 30 days: New Zealand citizens do not need a visa for visits lasting 30 days or less. This exemption applies to various types of travel, including tourism, business, and family visits.
• For stays over 30 days: A visa is required if the intended stay exceeds 30 consecutive days. This applies to both tourism and business trips.

In addition, regardless of visa requirements, New Zealand passport holders must ensure their passports meet the following conditions:

• The passport must be valid for at least 6 months beyond the arrival date in Vietnam.
• The passport should have at least 2 blank pages for entry and exit stamps.

For trips lasting 30 days or less, you can enjoy visa-free travel, but for longer stays, you'll need to apply for the appropriate visa.

New Zealanders can enter Vietnam visa-free for 30 days (Source: Collected)

Vietnam visa exemptions for New Zealand citizens

New Zealand citizens, including overseas Vietnamese living in New Zealand and their spouses or children, are eligible for a 5-year visa exemption certificate. This exemption allows for multiple entries into Vietnam during the validity period without the need for a visa.

To apply, individuals must contact the nearest Vietnamese embassy or consulate for guidance on the required documents and application process. It is recommended to inquire directly for any additional requirements or updates to the exemption policy.

Learn more: Vietnam 5-Year Visa: Requirements and How to Apply

Types of Vietnam visas available for New Zealand citizens

New Zealand citizens are required to obtain a visa for entry into Vietnam, with several options depending on the purpose of their visit and the duration of stay. Common visa types include the e-Visa (for stays up to 90 days, applied online), Visa on Arrival (for air travel), and the traditional Embassy Visa (a sticker placed in the passport). These visas cater to tourism, business, and long-term stays, with varying durations ranging from 1 to 3 months. Additionally, specialized work and investor visas are available for those needing extended stays.

Here’s a detailed overview of the main visa categories:

For Tourism & Short Visits

• E-Visa (Electronic Visa): This is the most widely used option for tourists, valid for up to 90 days. It allows single or multiple entries and can be easily applied for through the official online portal.
• Visa on Arrival (VoA): This option is available for travelers arriving by air. You receive an approval letter online and can obtain the visa sticker at the airport. It’s ideal for quick visa processing.
• Tourist Visa (Embassy/Consulate): This traditional visa is obtained in person at a Vietnamese embassy or consulate. It’s recommended for travelers needing a visa for longer stays or specific requirements not covered by e-visa options.

For Business & Employment

• Business Visa: Designed for those traveling for meetings, negotiations, or conferences. This visa is typically sponsored by a Vietnamese company.
• Work Visa: Required for those planning to work in Vietnam for an extended period. A work visa necessitates sponsorship from a Vietnamese employer and fulfillment of skill requirements.
• Long-Stay/Investor Visas: These visas are ideal for investors or individuals seeking a longer stay (1-5 years), with options like the DT1-DT4 visa depending on the investment level.

How to Choose the Right Visa

• E-Visa: Ideal for short-term tourists planning to stay between 1 and 3 months. The application process is simple and handled entirely online.
• Visa on Arrival: Best suited for air travelers who need a fast visa processing option at the airport.
• Embassy Visa: Necessary for specific cases, such as those needing a longer stay or facing complex visa requirements.

Be sure to consult the official Vietnam National Electronic Visa system or a trusted agency for the latest updates on visa requirements and entry/exit procedures.

Traditional Vietnam visa for foreign travelers (Source: Collected)

Required documents for a Vietnam visa for New Zealand citizens

To apply for a Vietnam visa, New Zealand citizens must provide the following documents:

• Passport: Ensure your passport is valid for at least six months from your planned arrival date in Vietnam and contains at least two blank pages for immigration stamps. Note that temporary passports may not be accepted.
• Visa Approval Letter: If you intend to obtain a visa upon arrival at Vietnam’s international airports, this letter is necessary.
• Photograph: Two recent passport-sized photos (4×6 cm) without glasses are required. Be sure to follow the specific Vietnam visa photo guidelines.
• Visa Application Form: Complete the Immigration Entry and Exit Application form for a Vietnam visa on arrival.
• Visa Stamping Fee: This fee, in cash, is paid upon arrival when you opt for a visa on arrival.

Important Notes:

• Travelers transiting through Vietnam should verify visa requirements with their airline.
• If you're traveling directly to Phu Quoc Island, arriving by plane or boat from outside Vietnam, and staying for less than 30 days, a visa is not required.
• For visa-free entry to Vietnam, a passport with at least six months of validity from the date of entry is sufficient.
• The visa approval letter applies only for arrival at the airport. Travelers arriving by land or cruise must apply for a visa through the local embassy.

How to apply for a Vietnam visa for New Zealand citizens

Vietnam E-Visa

New Zealand citizens are eligible to apply for an e-visa for Vietnam, which is the most convenient option for most travelers. This visa type allows a stay of up to 90 days, with both single and multiple entry options available.

• Validity: Up to 90 days (single or multiple entry)
• Processing time: 3-7 business days
• Fee: $25 for a single entry or $50 for multiple entries

To apply, visit the official government portal at evisa.gov.vn or submit your application through a visa agency.

Visa on Arrival

A visa on arrival is another option for New Zealand citizens traveling to Vietnam. However, it requires a pre-approved visa letter, which must be obtained before you board your flight. This letter is presented upon arrival in Vietnam, along with your passport, to get your visa stamp.

• Validity: Up to 30 days (single or multiple entry)
• Processing time: 3-5 business days
• Fee: $25 for a single entry or $50 for multiple entries, in addition to the visa approval letter fee

Applications can be made through a visa agency online.

Applying at a Vietnamese Embassy or Consulate

New Zealand citizens can also apply for a visa through the nearest Vietnamese embassy or consulate. This option requires submitting documents in person or by mail, with each embassy potentially having different document requirements. It’s advisable to contact the embassy directly to confirm specific details.

The Vietnamese Embassy in Wellington, New Zealand, is available for in-person applications. Here are the contact details:

• Location: Level 21 Grand Plimmer Tower, 2-6 Gilmer Terrace, Wellington 6011
• Phone: (64-4) 473 5912
• Email: [email protected]
• Website: Vietnamese Embassy in Wellington

Keep in mind that the embassy’s office hours may vary during public holidays, so it’s important to confirm opening times in advance. Some upcoming holiday closures include:

• Waitangi Day: Feb 6, 2026
• Vietnamese New Year's Eve: Feb 16, 2026
• Vietnamese New Year: Feb 17, 2026
• Tet Holiday: Feb 18, 2026

Traditional Vietnam visa issued on arrival (Source: Collected)

Tips for a fast and smooth Vietnam visa application

To ensure a quick and hassle-free Vietnam visa application process, follow these practical tips:

• Apply early: Submit your application well in advance of your travel date to avoid any last-minute issues. The earlier you apply, the more time you'll have to resolve any potential delays.
• Choose the right visa type: Select the most suitable visa option based on your travel plans. E-visa is the quickest and easiest option, while visa on arrival is ideal for those flying to Vietnam. Embassy applications may take longer but are necessary for certain visa types.
• Double-check your documents: Ensure all required documents are complete and accurate. Missing or incorrect information can cause delays in processing. Double-check passport validity, photos, and supporting documents before submission.
• Use trusted agencies for visa on arrival: If applying for a visa on arrival, choose a reputable visa agency to avoid complications. Ensure they provide the visa approval letter on time.
• Confirm processing times and fees: Know the processing times and fees for the visa you’re applying for. This helps avoid surprises and ensures you plan accordingly.

FAQs about Vietnam visas for New Zealand citizens

What is the validity of a Vietnam e-visa for New Zealand citizens?

A Vietnam e-visa for New Zealand citizens is valid for up to 90 days, with options for both single entry and multiple entry. The duration of stay allowed depends on the visa type chosen.

Can I extend my Vietnam visa while in Vietnam?

No, Vietnam does not allow visa extensions for e-visas or visas on arrival. If you wish to stay longer than your visa allows, you will need to apply for a new visa either through a Vietnamese embassy or consulate in Vietnam or by exiting and re-entering the country.

Can New Zealand citizens enter Vietnam multiple times with one visa?

Yes, New Zealand citizens can enter Vietnam multiple times with the multiple-entry visa. This applies to both e-visas and visas on arrival, provided the visa is valid for multiple entries.

Is a return or onward ticket required to enter Vietnam?

Yes, New Zealand citizens may be required to show proof of a return or onward ticket upon arrival in Vietnam. This helps demonstrate that you will leave the country within the allowed visa duration.

What should I do if my Vietnam visa application is rejected?

If your Vietnam visa application is rejected, the first step is to review the reasons for rejection. Common issues include incomplete documentation or errors in the application. You can either correct the issue and reapply, or if the rejection was due to more complex reasons, you may need to contact the nearest Vietnamese embassy or consulate for guidance on how to proceed.

Conclusion

In conclusion, obtaining a Vietnam visa for New Zealand citizens is simple once you choose the right visa and ensure your passport meets the requirements. By following our tips and staying updated on the latest guidelines, you can secure your visa smoothly and enjoy a hassle-free trip to Vietnam.