Welcome
to Vietnam!
Vietnam is a land of mesmerizing landscapes, rich traditions, and flavorful cuisine. Imagine strolling through the bustling streets of Hanoi or venturing into the lush beauty of Sapa’s mountains.
But before you can make your dreams of traveling to Vietnam a reality, let’s talk about safety. Just as you’d grab your map before an expedition, having protection in the form of travel insurance is crucial.
- Travel insurance is not required for Vietnam, but is still highly recommended, as foreign domestic health insurance is not accepted.
- A travel insurance plan with at least $100,000 for medical expenses and $250,000 for evacuation is recommended.
- US visitors can enter Vietnam with a valid passport and tourist visa.
- Vietnam offers an e-Visa system, and travelers can apply online prior to their journey.
- Travel insurance can cover unexpected emergencies and last minute situations in Vietnam.
- Travel medical insurance can cover medical situations like medical treatment or evacuation in Vietnam.
- Domestic health insurance will not be accepted in Vietnam.
Is Travel Insurance Required for Vietnam?
No, travel insurance is not required in Vietnam. However, it is still essential, as medical emergencies or trip related issues can still occur. Here are some things to consider:
Domestic Health Insurance: U.S. health insurance is typically not accepted in Vietnam. In this case, a separate travel insurance plan can provide coverage for medical expenses while in Vietnam. Standard Medicare will also usually not offer coverage for healthcare overseas.
Emergency Medical Evacuation: If you are hiking in a remote area like Sapa or the Ha Giang Loop and become injured, local clinics may not have proper equipment to treat you. Travel insurance can cover the cost of evacuation to a major city or back home.
What Can Travel Insurance Cover for Vietnam?
Whether you are on a river cruise, exploring bustling cities, or walking through colorful streets, travel insurance can provide coverage if any emergencies or medical situations occur while in Vietnam.
There are two types of travel insurance: travel insurance and travel medical insurance.
Travel Insurance
Travel insurance for Vietnam covers your trip-related costs, like flights and accomodations. Travel insurance does also include medical coverage, and protects your financial investment that you’ve made towards your trip. For U.S. citizens traveling to Vietnam, travel insurance is recommended. Travel insurance can cover the following:
Trip Cancellation / Delay: If your flight to Vietnam gets cancelled or is delayed, travel insurance can offer reimbursement for pre-paid expenses, like tours or activities. With connecting flights being common from the US to Vietnam, there is a chance for delays, making travel insurance helpful.
Trip Interruption: If you must return home due to an emergency, travel insurance can offer coverage for any unused portions of your trip.
Lost Baggage: Crime rate is generally low in Vietnam. However, there is always a chance that pickpocketing can occur, especially in larger tourist cities. In this case, travel insurance can provide coverage for lost items.
Emergency Medical Evacuation: If you require medical evacuation while hiking or trekking in Vietnam, travel insurance can cover the cost of transportation to the nearest medical facility, or back home.
Emergency Medical Expenses: travel insurance can provide coverage for medical care you may need due to illness or injury while in Vietnam. This benefit, also named Accident and Sickness coverage, can cover things like doctor visits, emergency care, and more.
Adventure Sports Coverage: If you are participating in activities like hiking, scuba diving, trekking, or other outdoor adventures while in Vietnam, consider a travel insurance plan with an adventure sports coverage add-on. This benefit can cover any activity-related accidents or emergencies that occur.
Best Travel Insurance for US Travelers to Vietnam
Best Travel Insurance Plan with Medical Coverage for Vietnam: iTravelInsured Travel LX
Best Affordable Travel Insurance Plan for Vietnam: Trip Protection Basic
Best Travel Insurance for Pre-Existing Conditions: Pathway Premium
Travel Medical Insurance
Travel medical insurance can provide coverage for medical issues or emergencies that may occur while abroad. A travel medical insurance plan that offers at least $100,000 in coverage for medical expenses and $250,000 for evacuation is recommended. Travel medical insurance for Vietnam can cover situations like:
Hospitalization: If you require hospitalization during your time in Vietnam, travel medical insurance can cover the costs of emergency room stays, surgeries, and so on.
Prescription medication: If you require medication during your time in Vietnam after becoming sick or injured, travel medical insurance can offer reimbursement for these costs.
Emergency medical evacuation: If you are hiking through mountains or exploring trails in Vietnam and require evacuation, travel medical insurance can cover the cost of transportation to the nearest medical facility, or back home if necessary.
Repatriation of remains: If needed, travel medical insurance can offer coverage for repatriation of remains, and cover the expenses for your return back home. If needed, travel medical insurance can also cover the return of remains.
How Much Does Travel Insurance for Vietnam Cost?
The cost of travel insurance for Vietnam will depend on various factors. Here is an overview of what travel insurance costs could look like:
Travel Insurance
Quoted for a 14-day trip, $3,000 in trip costs insured per person. Averages calculated across 14 plans on VisitorsCoverage.
| Traveler Profile | Average Cost | Price Range |
|---|---|---|
| Solo traveler, 30s | ~$107 | $35-$196 |
| Solo traveler, 50s | ~$148 | $66-$271 |
| Senior solo (65+) | ~$352 | $227-$548 |
Travel Medical Insurance
Quoted for a 14-day trip, with a $250 deductible. Averages calculated across 6 plans on VisitorsCoverage.
| Traveler Profile | Average Cost | Price Range |
|---|---|---|
| Solo traveler, 30s | ~$15 | $10-$30 |
| Solo traveler, 50s | ~$39 | $23-$82 |
| Senior solo (65+) | ~$76 | $38-$195 |
Why Should Travelers Buy Travel Insurance for Vietnam?
Travel insurance can be crucial when it comes to last minute situations, emergencies, or travel issues during your trip to Vietnam. Here are a few scenarios to keep in mind:
Weather Disruptions
Vietnam has distinct regional weather patterns, including a strong monsoon and typhoon season (from May to November). If a typhoon or other weather disruption delays your flights or cancels your accommodations and activities, travel insurance can reimburse you for those non-refundable expenses.
Adventure Activities
With Vietnam being a top destination for hiking, scuba diving, trekking and so on, there is a chance that injuries can occur. Finding a travel insurance plan with an Adventure Sports add-on is highly recommended in this case. Be sure that your travel insurance policy offers not only this benefit, but covers medical emergencies as well.
If you plan on riding a motorbike, your travel insurance will usually only cover an accident if you are driving legally. This means you will need to have a valid motorcycle license from your home country and an International Driving Permit (IDP) that is recognized by Vietnam.
Lost or Delayed Baggage
With flights being 16-37 hours from the U.S. to Vietnam with layovers and connections, there is a chance that baggage can be lost or delayed. In this case, travel insurance can offer coverage, helping you purchase essential items while you wait.
What Are the Requirements for Traveling to Vietnam in 2026?
Passport Requirements:
For travel to Vietnam in 2026, you will typically need a passport that is valid for at least 6 months beyond your return date. Prior to traveling, be sure to check with your transportation company about passport requirements.
Visa Requirements:
Vietnam’s e-visa is an online visa that U.S. citizens can apply for without visiting an embassy. E-visas can be issued for up to 90 days and may be single or multiple entry for Vietnam. The official Vietnam e-visa fee is $25 for a single-entry visa and $50 for a multiple-entry visa.
To receive an e-visa, you complete an online application, upload a portrait photo of yourself, and a clear image of your passport’s bio page. Once these are uploaded, you pay the fee, and receive a downloadable letter to present to government officials when you arrive.
All travelers applying for a Vietnam e-Visa must prepare the following documents:
- Passport: Valid for at least 6 months from entry date, with 2 blank pages
- Digital Passport Photo: 4×6 cm, white background, JPEG/PNG
- Passport Data Page Scan: Clear and readable, under 2MB
- Entry Details: Arrival port, entry date, and accommodation address in Vietnam
- Payment Method: Credit card, PayPal, or bank transfer
What To Know Before Your Trip to Vietnam:
Here are some things to keep in mind prior to your trip to Vietnam:
- Money: The currency in Vietnam is the Vietnam ??ng, symbolised by ₫ or VND. Tipping is not required, but if you leave a tip, it is seen as a gesture of appreciation. Bargaining is common in markets and small shops.
- Weather: The typical climate of central Vietnam is tropical monsoon, also known as tropical wet climate. Vietnam can also be hot and dry in other regions. The country experiences two main seasons: the dry season (Nov-Apr) and the wet monsoon season (May-Oct).
- Culture: Vietnamese people are generally described as resilient, hospitable, and family-oriented. Vietnamese is the official language. English is widely spoken in tourist areas, hotels, and restaurants.
- Crime: Vietnam is generally safe, but it’s wise to stay alert in crowded areas. Keep an eye on valuable items, and remain in secure neighborhoods.
- Public transportation: Public transit is growing with expanding metro networks in major cities, while buses and private car rentals are popular options for regional trips. The North-South Railway (Reunification Express) connects Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh City, and is recommended for overnight journeys.
- Nature: Outdoor activities are quite popular, considering Vietnam’s beautiful landscape. Be sure to use insect repellent and stay in accommodations with screens or air conditioning.
Final Pre-Check Before Your Trip to Vietnam
Before your scheduled date of departure, take a look at the checklist below to ensure that you have everything you need for Vietnam:
- Passport valid 6+ months after scheduled return date
- Visa for entry (with required passport, passport photo, passport data page scan, payment method)
- Proof of accommodations, flight bookings, return tickets, sufficient funds
- Travel insurance with adventure sports add-on for high-risk activities
- Credit card and some cash on hand
- All essential medications
Travel Resources for Vietnam
For more detailed, up-to-date information and further support on travel to Vietnam, be sure to visit the US Embassy Hanoi.
U.S. Embassy in Hanoi
Address:
7 Lang Ha Street
Hanoi, Vietnam
Phone:
+84-24-3850-5000
US Consulate in Hồ Chí Minh
Address:
4 Le Duan Blvd., Sai Gon Ward
Ho Chi Minh City Vietnam
Phone:
+84-28-3520-4200
Official Government Resources for Vietnam:
Frequently Asked Questions About Traveling to Vietnam
Do I need travel insurance for Vietnam?
Travel insurance with medical coverage is highly recommended for travelers to Vietnam to have protection in the event of an unexpected illness or injury. Domestic travel insurance will not be accepted in Vietnam, making travel insurance essential.
Does Vietnam require travel insurance?
Vietnam does not require that visitors obtain travel insurance for entry. However, it is still highly recommended, as trip delays, baggage issues, or medical emergencies can occur while in Vietnam.
How much medical coverage do I need for Vietnam?
It is recommended to have a travel insurance plan with at least $50,000 in medical coverage and $250,000 in emergency medical evacuation coverage. If you are participating in outdoor activities and require medical attention or evacuation, travel insurance can offer coverage for such costs.
Do I need a visa to enter Vietnam?
Visitors from most countries, including the United States, Canada, Australia, and the UK, do require a visa to visit Vietnam. However, citizens of countries like Japan, South Korea, and several European nations, are exempt for short stays. Travelers who require a visa can apply for a Vietnam Electronic Visa (E-visa), which is valid for up to 90 days and allows for single or multiple entries.
When is the best time to visit Vietnam?
The best time to visit Vietnam will depend on the types of events you would like to attend and the region of Vietnam that you are traveling to. The best time to visit Northern Vietnam is between October to April, when weather conditions are cooler and dry. The best time to visit Central Vietnam is from February to August, with warm and sunny weather that is perfect for outdoor activities. The best time to visit Southern Vietnam is from December to April. This is the dry season of this area, although temperatures can be warm. However, this is the ideal time of year for city exploration and tours as May through November can bring heavy rains and flooding.
Is travel medical insurance required for Vietnam?
No, travel medical insurance is not required for Vietnam. However, it is still highly recommended, especially for non-U.S. residents. Vietnam will not accept foreign domestic health insurance, making travel medical insurance crucial when it comes to protecting your medical costs abroad.
What documents are needed for an e-visa for Vietnam?
For an e-visa, you will need a passport valid for at least 6 months from entry date with 2 blank pages, a 4x6 digital passport photo, a passport data page scan (clear, uncropped, color scan or photograph of your passport’s main bio page), your entry details (arrival port, entry date, address of your accommodation in Vietnam) and a payment method.
Can travel insurance cover a lost passport in Vietnam?
Yes, travel insurance may offer coverage if you lose your passport in Vietnam. If you are traveling overseas and your passport is lost or stolen, travel insurance can assist you with scheduling an appointment for a replacement passport, provide reimbursement for pre-paid, non-refundable costs if you must cancel your trip or extend your stay, or connect you with the local US Embassy.
