General information
Good to know
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Visa Do I need a visa?
Vietnam issues e-visas to nationals of many European countries. The conditions, the permitted length of stay and the open entry points change regularly. Read the guide -
Communication Phone and internet: how does it work?
Tourist SIM cards and eSIMs can be bought as soon as you land at the airport, simply by showing your passport. 4G covers all three regions; hotels and cafés all have Wi-Fi. Read the guide -
Health Do I need vaccinations?
No vaccinations are compulsory for travellers coming from Europe. Take out travel insurance covering medical expenses and pack mosquito repellent for the forest and the Mekong Delta. Read the guide -
On the street How do you cross the street through the motorbikes?
Walk slowly and at a steady pace, without stopping suddenly or stepping back: the riders will steer around you. Read the guide -
Safety How do I keep my belongings and documents safe?
Leave your passport in the hotel safe and carry a copy with you; in markets and busy streets, wear your bag in front of you. Read the guide -
Etiquette Pagodas and temples: what should you know?
Cover your shoulders and knees, take off your shoes before entering the sanctuary, speak quietly and ask permission before photographing local people. Read the guide -
NEW PRE-ARRIVAL IMMIGRATION PROCEDURE FOR FOREIGN VISITORS – FROM 15 APRIL 2026
From 15 April 2026, the electronic pre-entry declaration system is being rolled out simultaneously at Vietnam's main international airports. This regulation helps to streamline… Read the guide -
Passport and Visa for Vietnam
(Source: Nam Air) 1. Passport To enter Vietnam, your passport must meet the following conditions: Validity: The passport must be valid for at least… Read the guide -
Customs and Immigration in Vietnam
Foreign visitors complete entry procedures at Noi Bai International Airport (Photo: Giang Huy) 1. Immigration procedures Since April 2026, Vietnam has modernised its procedures… Read the guide -
Useful numbers and emergencies in Vietnam
(Photo: Christoph Burgstedt) 1. National emergency numbers (free services) These numbers can be reached 24 hours a day from any phone (landline or mobile).… Read the guide -
Essential apps for Vietnam
(Photo: Apple) 1. Transport and mobility (getting around) Vietnam has a highly developed digital transport ecosystem. Forget waiting by the roadside: everything happens on… Read the guide -
Language and Communication in Vietnam
The president of Nvidia Corporation having a drink in Vietnam (Photo: Dân Trí) Although Vietnamese is the official language spoken throughout the country, many… Read the guide -
History and Geography of Vietnam
(Photo: Tiền phong) To understand Vietnam is to delve into a thousand-year history marked by resilience and to discover an exceptionally diverse geography, sculpted… Read the guide -
In-depth guide: Practical tips for travelling safely during the monsoon and typhoon season
Travelling in Southeast Asia, and particularly in Vietnam, in July and August – a period of intense monsoon activity and typhoon risk – presents… Read the guide
Frequently asked questions
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How long must my passport be valid for?
At least six months from the date of entry, with blank pages for stamps.
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Can you get by in French?
Hotels and tourist sites use English; many travel agencies offer French-speaking guides.
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Is tap water safe to drink?
Best avoided: drink bottled or boiled water.
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Should you leave a tip?
It is not compulsory; a small gesture for the guide or driver is always appreciated.
From the first read to departure day
Seasons, itineraries, formalities, budget, flights and the service directory: all the practical information you need before booking, gathered in one place.
