South Africa Citizen
Vietnam has become an increasingly popular destination for international travelers. For South Africa passport holders, understanding the Vietnam Visa for South Africa Citizens requirements before departure can help make the application process smoother and reduce the risk of unnecessary travel delays.
South Africa citizens are required to obtain a visa to enter Vietnam and are eligible to apply for a Vietnam eVisa online. This guide covers eVisa eligibility, requirements, fees, processing times, application steps, expedited processing, approved entry points and useful travel information for visitors from South Africa.
Vietnam Visa for South Africa Citizens: Quick Overview
Do South Africa Citizens Need a Visa to Vietnam?
Yes. South Africa citizens are required to obtain a visa before entering Vietnam.
The visa application process can be completed online through the Vietnam eVisa system, while other visa application methods may be available depending on the traveler’s circumstances.
Before applying, travelers can review the general Vietnam visa requirements and prepare the necessary passport and travel information.
Can South Africa Citizens Apply for a Vietnam eVisa?
Yes. South Africa citizens are eligible to apply for a Vietnam eVisa.
The electronic visa provides a convenient online application option and allows eligible South Africa passport holders to prepare their Vietnam visa before departure without visiting an embassy for the standard eVisa process.
A Vietnam eVisa can be issued for a maximum validity of up to 90 days and may allow either single or multiple entry, depending on the visa granted.
👉 Apply for Vietnam eVisa Online
Travelers who prefer to apply directly through the Vietnamese Government can use the official Vietnam Immigration eVisa portal.
Types of Vietnam Visas Available for South Africa Citizens
Vietnam offers several visa options for South Africa citizens depending on the application method, purpose of travel and intended duration of stay.
Visa Types Based on Application Method
Vietnam eVisa: The eVisa is a convenient option for eligible South Africa passport holders because the application can be completed online before departure. Depending on the approved visa, it can allow single or multiple entry and remain valid for up to 90 days.
👉 Apply for Vietnam eVisa Online
Visa on Arrival (VOA): Visa on Arrival is mainly intended for qualifying emergency travel situations and requires the necessary approval documentation before departure.
Embassy Visa: Applicants may also apply through the appropriate Vietnamese embassy or consular authority when applicable.
👉 Check Vietnamese embassy information.
Visa Types Based on Purpose of Visit
- Tourist Visa (DL): For travelers visiting Vietnam for tourism purposes.
- Business Visa (DN1, DN2): For individuals visiting Vietnam for eligible business-related activities.
- Relative Visit Visa (TT): For eligible travelers visiting relatives in Vietnam.
Visa Types Based on Length of Stay
- 30-day single entry: Allows one entry during the approved visa period.
- 30-day multiple entry: Allows multiple entries during the approved visa period.
- 90-day single entry: Allows one entry during the approved validity period.
- 90-day multiple entry: Allows multiple entries during the approved validity period.
South Africa citizens can apply for an eVisa independently. Travelers who prefer additional assistance may choose Vietnam Visa Express for:
- Expert assistance with visa-related questions
- Help avoiding common application mistakes
- Processing options based on the traveler’s schedule
- Support for urgent visa situations
Travelers arriving by air can also consider airport fast-track assistance for a smoother arrival experience.
Vietnam eVisa Requirements for South Africa Citizens
Applicants preparing a Vietnam Visa for South Africa Citizens should ensure that their application information and supporting documents are complete and accurate before submission.
Vietnam eVisa Cost for South Africa Citizens
If South Africa citizens apply directly through the official Vietnam Immigration eVisa portal, the government eVisa application fees are:
The government eVisa fee is separate from any optional service or expedited-processing fee selected through a visa support provider.
For official eVisa information and government applications, visit the Vietnam Immigration eVisa portal.
Vietnam eVisa Processing Time for South Africa Citizens
Vietnam eVisa processing times can vary depending on the application, immigration review and whether additional verification is required.
South Africa citizens are encouraged to submit their applications early whenever possible rather than waiting until immediately before departure.
Vietnam Visa Express offers standard and expedited processing options depending on the traveler’s departure schedule and service availability.
- Standard processing: 5–7 business days.
- Expedited services: Options may range from 1–2 business days to urgent processing as fast as 1–4 hours, depending on availability and the individual case.
Vietnam Visa Express Processing Time & Fees
👉 Apply for a New Vietnam eVisa
👉 Expedite a Pending Vietnam eVisa
How to Apply for a Vietnam Visa From South Africa
Vietnam eVisa
- Visit our secure Vietnam eVisa application form.
- Enter your personal and passport details accurately.
- Upload the required passport and portrait images.
- Select the appropriate visa and processing option.
- Pay the applicable visa and service fees.
- Wait for the application to be processed.
- Check all information carefully once your eVisa is approved.
- Carry your approved eVisa when traveling to Vietnam.
Visa on Arrival (VOA)
Visa on Arrival should mainly be considered for qualifying urgent or emergency travel situations.
- Submit the required application information.
- Receive the necessary approval documentation before departure.
- Prepare your passport, photographs and other required documents.
- Present the required documents at the applicable Visa on Arrival counter in Vietnam.
If your departure date is approaching, review the Urgent & Emergency Vietnam Visa service.
What If Your Vietnam eVisa Is Still Pending?
If you have already submitted a Vietnam eVisa application but the application remains under processing, your next step may be different from submitting a completely new visa application.
South Africa citizens whose departure date is approaching should avoid submitting unnecessary duplicate applications without first checking the status and available options for their existing application.
Vietnam Visa Express provides assistance for eligible pending eVisa applications where expedited processing may be available.
👉 Expedite Your Pending Vietnam eVisa
Approved Entry Points for Vietnam eVisa Holders
Vietnam eVisa holders must enter and exit through international border gates approved for electronic visa holders. These designated checkpoints include international airports, land border gates and seaports.
Because the list of eligible checkpoints may be updated, travelers from South Africa should confirm that their intended arrival and departure points accept Vietnam eVisa holders before traveling.
Common International Airports
- Noi Bai International Airport
- Tan Son Nhat International Airport
- Da Nang International Airport
- Cam Ranh International Airport
- Phu Quoc International Airport
- Cat Bi International Airport
- Phu Bai International Airport
- Can Tho International Airport
- Van Don International Airport
- Lien Khuong International Airport
👉 Check the latest official Vietnam eVisa entry-point information before departure.
Enhance Your Vietnam Itinerary
With your eVisa ready, Vietnam’s diverse landscapes, cultural attractions and rich history await your exploration. Consider adding some of these destinations to your itinerary:
- Ha Long Bay – Known for emerald waters and thousands of towering limestone islands. Travelers can enjoy cruises, explore caves and kayak through the bay. Discover more about Ha Long Bay.
- Hanoi – Vietnam’s capital combines historic attractions with modern city life. Explore the Old Quarter, Hoan Kiem Lake, Temple of Literature and local street-food areas.
- Hoi An – Famous for its well-preserved Ancient Town, lantern-lit streets, traditional shops and riverside atmosphere.
- Hue – The former imperial capital is home to the historic Imperial City, royal tombs and pagodas. Discover more about Hue.
- Ho Chi Minh City – A bustling metropolis with historical attractions, markets, nightlife and Vietnamese cuisine.
- Sapa – Known for mountain scenery, terraced rice fields and ethnic minority communities.
- Mekong Delta – Explore waterways, floating markets, fruit orchards, rice paddies and traditional villages.
- Phu Quoc Island – Enjoy tropical beaches, clear waters, coral reefs, national parks and night markets.
Vietnam’s Weather Overview
Vietnam’s geography creates different weather patterns across Northern, Central and Southern Vietnam, so conditions can vary significantly depending on where and when you travel.
Northern Vietnam
- Winter (Dec–Feb): Around 10°C to 20°C, generally cool with occasional drizzle. Popular destinations include Hanoi, Sapa and Ha Long Bay.
- Spring (Mar–Apr): Around 15°C to 25°C with pleasant conditions and blooming landscapes.
- Summer (May–Aug): Often above 30°C, with hot and humid conditions and frequent showers or thunderstorms.
- Autumn (Sep–Nov): Around 20°C to 25°C with cooler and generally pleasant travel conditions.
Central Vietnam
- Winter (Dec–Feb): Around 18°C to 25°C, with generally cooler conditions suitable for destinations such as Hue, Hoi An and Da Nang.
- Spring (Mar–Apr): Around 20°C to 30°C with comfortable weather for sightseeing.
- Summer (May–Aug): Temperatures can exceed 35°C, with hot and humid conditions.
- Autumn (Sep–Nov): Heavy rainfall and typhoons may affect parts of Central Vietnam, particularly during the wetter months.
Read more about Hoi An.
Southern Vietnam
- Dry Season (Dec–May): Around 25°C to 35°C with generally warm and dry conditions. Popular destinations include Ho Chi Minh City, Phu Quoc and the Mekong Delta.
- Rainy Season (Jun–Nov): Frequent afternoon rain, high humidity and lush landscapes are common.
Travel Tips for South Africa Citizens Visiting Vietnam
- Plan Ahead: Research your destinations and book accommodation early during busy travel periods.
- Visa and Documents: Make sure your approved Vietnam eVisa, passport and other necessary travel documents are prepared before departure.
- Currency: Vietnamese Dong is widely used, and ATMs are available throughout major cities and tourist destinations.
- Language: Learning basic Vietnamese phrases such as “Xin chào” and “Cảm ơn” can be useful during your trip.
- Cultural Etiquette: Dress appropriately when visiting religious sites and respect local customs.
- Transportation: Use reliable transportation services and plan longer domestic journeys in advance.
- Connectivity: Consider a local SIM card or travel eSIM for navigation and communication.
- Cuisine: Vietnam offers a wide variety of dishes including pho, banh mi and fresh spring rolls. Choose reputable food vendors and communicate any dietary requirements when ordering.
Apply for a Vietnam Visa From South Africa
Applying for a Vietnam Visa for South Africa Citizens before departure can make travel preparation easier. For eligible South Africa passport holders, the Vietnam eVisa provides a convenient online application option for travel to Vietnam.
For official Vietnam eVisa information, government fees and approved border gates, visit the Vietnam Immigration eVisa portal.
