Vietnam is a popular destination for Dutch travelers thanks to its rich cultural heritage, beautiful landscapes, vibrant cities, diverse cuisine, and memorable travel experiences. Dutch passport holders can benefit from Vietnam’s visa exemption for eligible short visits. This guide explains the Vietnam Visa for Netherlands Citizens, including the 45-day visa exemption, Vietnam eVisa eligibility, requirements, costs, processing times, application steps, expedited services, entry points, and useful travel information.
Do Netherlands citizens need a visa to Vietnam?
No, not for eligible stays of up to 45 days. Dutch citizens can visit Vietnam without a visa for stays of up to 45 days for tourism or short business trips.
If you plan to stay in Vietnam for longer than 45 days, you should arrange an appropriate visa. Eligible Dutch citizens can apply online for a Vietnam eVisa.
Vietnam visa exemption for Netherlands citizens
Dutch passport holders can visit Vietnam visa-free for up to 45 days for eligible tourism or short business trips.
For eligible short trips within this period, Dutch citizens do not need to complete a Vietnam eVisa application. Travelers should make sure their entire planned stay remains within the applicable visa-free period.
If your planned stay exceeds 45 days, you should arrange an appropriate visa before traveling.
What if you want to stay longer than 45 days?
Netherlands citizens planning to stay beyond the 45-day visa-free period can consider applying for a Vietnam eVisa.
Can Netherlands citizens apply for a Vietnam eVisa?
Yes. Netherlands citizens can apply for a Vietnam eVisa online.
The Vietnam eVisa is a convenient option for Dutch travelers who plan to stay beyond the 45-day visa-free period or whose travel circumstances require a visa. The eVisa may be valid for up to 90 days and can allow single or multiple entry.
👉 Apply for a Vietnam eVisa online
Types of Vietnam visas available for Netherlands citizens
Vietnam offers several visa options depending on the application method, purpose of travel, and intended duration of stay.
Vietnam eVisa
The Vietnam eVisa provides a convenient online application option. Eligible Netherlands citizens can submit the required passport information, supporting images, travel details, and payment electronically without visiting an embassy.
Visa on Arrival
Visa on Arrival is not the standard option for ordinary eVisa travel. The existing Netherlands guide states that this option is currently available only for emergency travel and requires prior arrangements, including an approval letter before departure. Travelers who believe they require this option can review our Vietnam Visa on Arrival service.
Embassy visa
Travelers whose circumstances are not suitable for an eVisa may need to apply through the appropriate Vietnamese diplomatic mission. Additional information is available through our Vietnam embassy information.
Visa types based on purpose of visit
- Tourist Visa (DL): For travelers visiting Vietnam for tourism purposes.
- Business Visa (DN1, DN2): For qualifying business-related activities.
- Relative Visit Visa (TT): For qualifying travelers visiting relatives in Vietnam.
eVisa validity and entry options
- Valid for up to 90 days
- Single-entry option
- Multiple-entry option
Vietnam eVisa requirements for Netherlands citizens
Netherlands citizens applying for a Vietnam eVisa should prepare the required information and documents carefully. Accurate information can help reduce the risk of application problems or unnecessary delays.
- Valid passport: Prepare a valid Dutch passport and make sure the information entered in the application matches your passport.
- Completed application information: Enter the required personal and passport information accurately.
- Portrait photograph: Prepare a recent portrait image suitable for the eVisa application.
- Passport data-page image: Upload a clear image of the passport information page.
- Travel information: Provide the requested intended arrival date, entry point, address in Vietnam, and other travel details.
- Visa fee: Pay the applicable government or service fee according to the application method selected.
Before submitting your application, carefully review your full name, passport number, nationality, date of birth, intended entry date, and other important information.
Vietnam eVisa cost for Netherlands citizens
For travelers applying independently through the official Vietnam Immigration eVisa system, the government application fees listed in the existing Netherlands guide are:
- Single-entry eVisa: US$25
- Multiple-entry eVisa: US$50
Government fees are separate from optional Vietnam Visa Express service and expedited-processing charges. For important official application information, travelers can also refer to the Vietnam Immigration eVisa portal.
Vietnam Visa Express processing options and fees
Vietnam Visa Express provides standard and expedited processing options for Netherlands citizens who require application assistance or faster processing.
👉 Apply for a new Vietnam eVisa
👉 Expedite a pending Vietnam eVisa
Vietnam eVisa processing time for Netherlands citizens
Processing time can vary depending on the application, information submitted, application volume, weekends, public holidays, and whether additional verification is required.
The existing Netherlands guide notes that government processing may extend to 15 days if additional verification is required. Vietnam Visa Express also provides expedited service options ranging from 1–2 business days to urgent 1–4 hour processing, depending on availability and the circumstances of the application.
Travelers who know they require an eVisa should apply in advance rather than relying on urgent processing immediately before departure.
How Netherlands citizens can apply for a Vietnam eVisa
- Start your application: Visit our Vietnam eVisa service page.
- Enter your information: Complete the application using accurate personal and passport information.
- Upload the required images: Provide the requested passport data-page image and portrait photograph.
- Review your application: Carefully check your full name, passport number, nationality, date of birth, travel dates, entry point, and other important information.
- Pay the applicable fee: Complete payment according to your selected application and processing option.
- Receive your eVisa: Once approved, receive your eVisa electronically and check all information before traveling.
- Prepare for travel: Keep a copy of your approved eVisa available when entering Vietnam.
Already applied? Expedite a pending Vietnam eVisa
If you have already submitted a Vietnam eVisa application but it remains pending and your departure date is approaching, avoid automatically submitting another application.
Instead, check whether faster-processing assistance is available through our Expedited Pending Vietnam eVisa service.
This service is intended for travelers who already have an existing eVisa application and require assistance because the application remains pending close to their travel date. Availability depends on the application status and circumstances.
Approved entry points for Vietnam eVisa holders
Vietnam eVisa holders must use entry and exit points designated for the eVisa program. These include approved international airports, land border gates, and seaports.
Common international airport entry points include:
- Noi Bai International Airport – Hanoi
- Tan Son Nhat International Airport – Ho Chi Minh City
- Cam Ranh International Airport – Khanh Hoa
- Da Nang International Airport – Da Nang
- Cat Bi International Airport – Hai Phong
- Can Tho International Airport – Can Tho
- Phu Quoc International Airport – Kien Giang
- Phu Bai International Airport – Hue
- Van Don International Airport – Quang Ninh
- Lien Khuong International Airport – Lam Dong
The existing Netherlands article also lists approved land border gates and seaports. Travelers should verify that their intended entry and exit points are permitted before departure. Current official information can be checked through the Vietnam Immigration eVisa portal.
Enhance your Vietnam itinerary
Whether traveling under the 45-day visa exemption or using an eVisa for a longer visit, Vietnam offers diverse landscapes, historic destinations, vibrant cities, and tropical escapes.
- Ha Long Bay: Known for emerald waters and thousands of towering limestone islands, Ha Long Bay offers cruises, caves, kayaking, and spectacular scenery.
- Hanoi: Vietnam’s capital combines ancient history with modern city life. Explore the Old Quarter, Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, Temple of Literature, and Hoan Kiem Lake.
- Hoi An: Famous for its well-preserved Ancient Town, lantern-lit streets, tailor shops, riverside scenery, Japanese Covered Bridge, and Vietnamese cuisine.
- Hue: The former imperial capital features the Imperial City, royal tombs, pagodas, and Perfume River. Discover more about Hue.
- Ho Chi Minh City: A vibrant metropolis offering historic landmarks, museums, markets, nightlife, and famous Vietnamese street food.
- Sapa: Known for mountain scenery, terraced rice fields, trekking routes, local markets, 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, Phu Quoc National Park, night markets, and beachside resorts.
Vietnam’s weather overview
Vietnam’s diverse geography creates different weather patterns across Northern, Central, and Southern Vietnam.
Northern Vietnam
- Winter (December–February): Around 10°C to 20°C, generally cool and dry with occasional drizzle. Suggested destinations include Hanoi, Sapa, and Ha Long Bay.
- Spring (March–April): Around 15°C to 25°C with pleasant conditions and blooming flowers. Suggested destinations include Hanoi, Ninh Binh, and Moc Chau.
- Summer (May–August): Temperatures can exceed 30°C with hot, humid conditions and frequent afternoon showers and thunderstorms. Suggested destinations include Ha Long Bay, Sapa, and Ba Be National Park.
- Autumn (September–November): Around 20°C to 25°C with cooler and generally drier conditions. Suggested destinations include Mu Cang Chai, Ha Giang, and Hanoi.
Central Vietnam
- Winter (December–February): Around 18°C to 25°C with generally cool conditions. Suggested destinations include Hue, Hoi An, and Da Nang.
- Spring (March–April): Around 20°C to 30°C, suitable for exploring Da Nang, Hoi An, and Quy Nhon.
- Summer (May–August): Temperatures can exceed 35°C with hot and humid conditions and occasional rain showers. Suggested destinations include Nha Trang, Phong Nha, and My Son Sanctuary.
- Autumn (September–November): Central Vietnam can experience heavy rain and typhoons, particularly during parts of September and October.
Southern Vietnam
- Dry season (December–May): Around 25°C to 35°C with generally warm and dry conditions. Suggested destinations include Ho Chi Minh City, Phu Quoc, and the Mekong Delta.
- Rainy season (June–November): Warm and humid with frequent afternoon rain and lush scenery. Suggested destinations include Can Tho, Con Dao, and Vung Tau.
Travel tips for Netherlands citizens visiting Vietnam
- Check your permitted stay: If traveling under the visa exemption, make sure your planned visit remains within the applicable 45-day visa-free period.
- Plan ahead: Research destinations and book accommodation early during peak travel periods.
- Visa and documents: If using an eVisa, check the information carefully before departure and keep your travel documents accessible.
- Currency: Vietnamese Dong (VND) is the local currency. ATMs and currency-exchange services are widely available.
- Language: Learning basic Vietnamese phrases such as “Xin chào” and “Cảm ơn” can be helpful.
- Cultural etiquette: Dress modestly at religious sites and respect local customs.
- Transportation: Use reliable transportation options such as Grab for city travel and suitable transport for longer journeys.
- Connectivity: Consider a local SIM card or suitable roaming package for navigation and communication.
- Cuisine: Try Vietnamese dishes such as pho, banh mi, and fresh spring rolls while choosing hygienic and reputable vendors.
Frequently asked questions about Vietnam Visa for Netherlands Citizens
How long can Netherlands citizens stay in Vietnam without a visa?
Dutch passport holders can stay in Vietnam visa-free for up to 45 days under the applicable visa-exemption policy.
Can Netherlands citizens apply for a Vietnam eVisa?
Yes. Netherlands citizens can apply online for a Vietnam eVisa when they require a visa for their travel plans.
How long can a Vietnam eVisa be valid?
A Vietnam eVisa can be valid for up to 90 days and may allow single or multiple entry.
How much is the Vietnam eVisa fee?
The existing Netherlands guide lists the government eVisa fee as US$25 for single entry and US$50 for multiple entry. Optional Vietnam Visa Express service and expedited-processing charges are separate.
Can a pending Vietnam eVisa be expedited?
If you have already submitted an eVisa application and it remains pending close to your departure date, you can check whether assistance is available through our Expedited Pending Vietnam eVisa service.
Do Netherlands citizens need an eVisa for a trip shorter than 45 days?
If a Dutch passport holder qualifies for the applicable visa exemption and the entire visit remains within the permitted 45-day period, an eVisa is generally not required for that stay.
Planning a longer stay in Vietnam?
Netherlands citizens can enjoy visa-free travel to Vietnam for eligible short visits of up to 45 days. If your planned stay is longer, arrange the appropriate visa before departure and carefully review your passport and application information.
👉 Staying longer? Apply for your Vietnam eVisa online
Already submitted your application? 👉 Expedite your pending Vietnam eVisa
