Vietnam travel guide for Australians

Australians can enter Vietnam without a visa for up to 45 days. For longer stays, apply for an e-visa online (valid up to 90 days, single or multiple entry) or get a visa on arrival with a pre-approved letter. Always check the latest rules with the Vietnamese embassy or immigration department before booking.

Your passport should be valid for at least six months beyond your planned departure. Carry proof of onward travel (a return ticket) and enough funds for your stay. Entry rules can change, so confirm with official sources before you fly.

The table below summarises the main entry options. The 45-day visa exemption is the simplest for most trips. For longer stays, the e-visa is processed online and costs about USD 25 (2026 estimate); it takes about 3–5 working days to approve.

The Australian Embassy in Hanoi is at 8 Dao Tan Street, Ba Dinh District. It handles consular services for Australians, including passport renewals and emergency assistance. There is also an Australian Consulate-General in Ho Chi Minh City at 5B Ton Duc Thang Street, District 1.

For consular help, call the embassy or the 24-hour consular emergency line. Australians can also register their travel plans with the Australian government's smartraveller service, which sends alerts and helps locate you in an emergency.

Vietnam is generally affordable for Australians. A budget traveller can get by on about AUD 50–70 per day, a mid-range traveller AUD 80–120, and those wanting comfort or organised tours AUD 150+. These estimates cover accommodation, food, local transport and some activities, but not international flights.

Direct flights from Sydney and Melbourne to Ho Chi Minh City or Hanoi take about 9–10 hours. From Perth, it's about 7 hours. Airlines include Vietnam Airlines, Qantas, and Jetstar (check). Return fares typically range from AUD 600 to AUD 1,200 depending on season and booking time.

Use the flight-time planner to see how long the journey is from your home city.

Vietnam uses plug types A and C, with a standard voltage of 220 V and frequency 50 Hz. Australian plugs (type I) won't fit, so bring a universal adapter. Voltage is the same as Australia, so most devices will work without a converter.

Tipping is not expected in Vietnam. Round up the bill, and tip spa staff, tour guides and drivers if you're happy with the service. A small tip of 5–10% is appreciated in upscale restaurants.

Vietnam is generally safe for travellers, but watch out for motorbike traffic, especially in cities. Keep your belongings secure, avoid carrying large amounts of cash, and be cautious when crossing streets. Emergency numbers: 113 police, 114 fire, 115 ambulance.

For the latest safety advice, see the Australian government's smartraveller page for Vietnam.