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Last Update: Tuesday January 27, 2026

If you're planning a layover in Vietnam, you might be wondering: Do you need a visa to transit in Vietnam? The answer depends on several factors including your nationality, length of layover, whether you plan to leave the airport, and the airport you'll be transiting through. In this guide, we’ll walk you through Vietnam’s transit visa rules, transit requirements, and what to do if you need an urgent visa.

Do You Need a Transit Visa in Vietnam?

Vietnam transit visa policy is relatively traveler-friendly. Here’s the general rule:

• If you remain in the airport's international transit area and have an onward ticket within 24 hours, you typically do not need a transit visa.(double check with your airline.)

• If you plan to leave the airport, even for a short trip, you will need a visa.

However, not all Vietnamese airports have a designated transit area. For example, at Tan Son Nhat (Ho Chi Minh City) and Noi Bai (Hanoi), even some transit passengers might need to go through immigration, especially on separate tickets. Always check your flight itinerary.

Vietnam Transit Requirements

Here are the basic transit requirements to keep in mind:

• A confirmed onward ticket to a third country.

• A passport valid for at least 6 months from the date of arrival.

• A valid Vietnam transit visa (if required based on your layover conditions).

• If transiting on two separate airlines or tickets, you may be required to clear immigration, collect your luggage, and re-check-in — which will require a visa.

Get an Urgent Visa

We provides fast and reliable visa services. Whether you’re in a rush, they can assist you in obtaining an urgent visa, often within a few hours ( especially within 30 minutes). This is especially helpful for travelers who:

• Missed a connecting flight.

• Want to leave the airport during a long layover.

• Have separate bookings and must re-check-in for the next flight.

Pro Tips for Transiting in Vietnam

1. Check your layover airport: Some Vietnamese airports don’t have a true transit zone.

2. Always double-check with your airline about your transit needs and whether your baggage will be transferred automatically.

3. Consider an e-visa if there’s any chance you might want to exit the airport.

4. For peace of mind, apply for a transit visa or e-visa ahead of time if your itinerary involves separate airlines or long layovers.

5. Save time with urgent visa services, especially if you encounter last-minute changes or unexpected visa requirements.

Transiting through Vietnam is generally smooth, but it’s important to understand your transit visa obligations to avoid issues at the airport. Knowing the transit requirements and having access to urgent visa services can save your trip.

If you find yourself needing a quick visa solution, head over to We for fast processing and 24/7 support.