Russian citizens can enter Vietnam without a visa for up to **45 days**, regardless of the purpose of travel, from **March 15, 2025 to March 14, 2028**.

For stays longer than 45 days, a visa will be required (e.g., e-Visa). Usually needed: valid passport (at least 6 months remaining), at least one blank page, completed application form, photo, confirmation of bookings and tickets. Requirements may vary depending on the type of visa.

The "visa on arrival" program only works with a prior approval letter — arranged through agencies. However, the most convenient option is to apply for an **e-Visa** online through the official portal.

The passport must be valid for at least **6 months** from the date of entry and contain at least one blank page for stamps.

There are direct flights, for example, Vietnam Airlines or other airlines, and connections through Istanbul, Dubai or Bangkok are also popular. Travel time is usually 10–15 hours.

For intercity travel, it is convenient to use planes (Vietnam Airlines, VietJet Air), trains — especially convenient for long routes. In cities: taxis (including Grab), rented motorbikes, buses — an affordable and comfortable option.

Traffic in cities is often intense and chaotic. Always wear a helmet, avoid driving in the rain and on slippery roads. For beginners, it is wiser to use taxis or group tours.

Grab is a popular mobile app. It offers fixed prices, route maps, available for both cars and motorbikes. You can pay with cash or card.

All categories are available: budget hostels, guesthouses, apartments, hotels from 1* to 5*, boutique hotels in old quarters, traditional homestays and resort complexes.

Approximate prices: hostel — $5–15/night, budget hotel — $15–30, mid-range — $30–80, luxury — from $80+. In tourist areas prices are higher. For long stays bargaining is possible.

Old Quarter — lively and atmospheric; French Quarter — quieter, with beautiful architecture; area around Hoan Kiem Lake — central and convenient for walks.

Yes, especially in high season and during holidays, for example, Tet. At other times accommodation can be found on the spot, but the best options may already be taken.

Recommended: pho, banh mi, spring rolls, cao lau (Hoi An), bun bo hue, che (sweet dessert) and Vietnamese coffee with condensed milk.

Generally yes: choose places with high traffic, where food is cooked hot and in plain sight. Avoid raw salads, ice and tap water.

Street food: $1–3 per portion; local cafes: $3–7; tourist restaurants: $10–20; fast food: $3–5; coffee: $1–2; beer: $0.5–2.

Yes. Look for the word "chay" (vegetarian). Vegan and vegetarian food — tofu, vegetable rolls and soups — are widely available in tourist areas.

Remove shoes, dress modestly (covered shoulders and knees), do not point at Buddha with your finger, speak quietly, photograph with permission and leave a small donation.

Popular: coffee, conical hats (non la), silk, lacquer boxes, silk paintings, ao dai, spices, bamboo products and pearls.

Tipping is not required but appreciated. Restaurants — 5–10%, guides — $5–10/day, drivers — $3–5, spa — 10–15%. In street cafes — not required.

The main one is Tet (Lunar New Year, usually January–February): many places are closed. Also: Reunification Day (April 30), Independence Day (September 2). On these dates — higher prices and crowds.

Overall Vietnam is relatively safe. Main risks — petty theft, scams and traffic. Avoid secluded places at night, do not display valuables and bargain.

In major cities there are international clinics with English-speaking staff. Always have medical insurance. Pharmacies are available almost everywhere. In emergencies — contact the embassy.

No, drink only bottled water. For brushing teeth and ice — it is better to use bottled or boiled water.

Mobile connection — excellent. You can buy a SIM card at the airport or from operators Viettel, Mobifone, Vinaphone. Wi-Fi is available in hotels, cafes and restaurants, internet is fast.