Vietnam eVisa vs Thailand Entry: Southeast Asia Compared (2026)

Vietnam and Thailand are Southeast Asia's two most popular long-stay destinations — and they could not be more different. Vietnam's $25 eVisa gives 90 days in a country of extraordinary diversity: Hanoi's Old Quarter, Ha Long Bay, Hoi An's lantern streets, and Saigon's energy. Thailand offers 60-day visa-free entry (for most nationalities) to Thai temples, island beaches, and a food culture that rivals the world's best.
Vietnam eVisa
9.0
Gov. fee $25
Apply for Vietnam eVisa
VS
Thailand eVisa
8.6
Gov. fee $45
Apply for Thailand eVisa

Behind this comparison

This comparison is based on official government data for both Vietnam eVisa and Thailand eVisa, supplemented by application experience data from our traveller feedback network. Processing times reflect medians from 8 data points collected over the past 6 months. Fees are based on published government rates as of April 2026. Where fees vary by nationality, we show the most common rate for English-speaking market applicants. Always check the current fee on the official government portal before applying.

Feature Comparison

Feature Vietnam eVisa Thailand eVisa
Entry system eVisa (required) Visa-free 60 days (most nationalities)
Government fee USD$25 Free (visa-free)
Maximum stay 90 days 60 days (visa-free)
Processing time 3 business days Immediate on arrival
Eligible nationalities 190+ (most countries) 93 countries visa-free
Best beaches Phu Quoc, Da Nang Koh Samui, Krabi, Koh Lanta
Best history/culture Hoi An, Hue, Hanoi Old Quarter Chiang Mai, Ayutthaya, Bangkok temples

Our Verdict

Our Pick
Vietnam eVisa
Vietnam wins on visa value — 90 days, multiple entry, for $25 covers a full south-to-north overland trip. Ha Long Bay, Hoi An, and the food culture make it one of Asia's unmissable destinations.
Apply for Vietnam eVisa
Thailand eVisa
Thailand wins for visa-free ease for most nationalities — no application, no fee, no waiting. Add world-class islands (Koh Lanta, Koh Tao, Koh Samui) and one of Southeast Asia's best food scenes.
Apply for Thailand eVisa

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I travel overland between Vietnam and Thailand?+
Yes — the most popular overland route goes from Bangkok through Cambodia (Phnom Penh and/or Siem Reap) and into southern Vietnam. The entire journey is possible using buses, trains, and shared transport. You'll need a Cambodia eVisa plus your Vietnam eVisa for this route. Allow 2–3 weeks for the full overland journey.
Do US citizens need a visa for Vietnam?+
US citizens need a Vietnam eVisa ($25) for stays of any length. The visa covers 90 days, multiple entry. The application takes 3 business days. The US and Vietnam signed a visa waiver agreement in 2023 that is expected to take effect — check the latest status before your trip.

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