Traveling to Vietnam During Lunar New Year: What First-Time Visitors Must Know

Planning to visit Vietnam during Lunar New Year (Tet Holiday)? Get ready for one of the most exciting, colorful, emotional, and culturally meaningful festivals in Asia. However, Tet is also the busiest travel period of the year, and first-time travelers must prepare properly — especially when it comes to immigration, travel logistics, and timing.

If you’re planning to visit Vietnam soon, it’s essential to secure your Vietnam e-visa, understand holiday schedules, and know what to expect when the whole country celebrates this special time.

What Is Lunar New Year (Tet) in Vietnam?

Lunar New Year, or Tết Nguyên Đán, marks the beginning of the lunar calendar year. It usually takes place between late January and mid-February. During Tet:

• Families reunite
• Businesses temporarily close
• Cities sparkle with decorations
• Streets fill with festivals, lion dances, and fireworks
• Prices and crowds increase due to peak travel demand
• Tet is unforgettable, but only if you prepare correctly.

1. Apply for Your Vietnam E-Visa Early

Travel demand during Tet is extremely high. Immigration departments receive thousands of Vietnam visa applications, and processing often slows down.

If you plan to apply Vietnam e-visa online, do it early to avoid:

• Delayed approvals
• Last-minute panic
• Missed flights due to visa not ready

Average Vietnam e-visa processing time may extend to 7–10 working days or even longer during national holidays. If you are traveling soon, consider using a fast Vietnam evisa service to stay safe.

2. Understand Vietnam E-Visa Requirements

First-time travelers often underestimate the details required for approval. To avoid rejection, ensure:

• Your passport is valid for at least 6 months
• Your e-visa photo meets official Vietnam e-visa photo guidelines
• Information in your Vietnam visa application matches your passport exactly

Even one small typo may cause problems.

3. Tourist or Business? Choose the Right Visa

Different travelers require different visa types:

Vietnam tourist visa
Best for sightseeing, visiting friends, exploring Vietnam, or holiday travel.

Vietnam business visa
Required if you are attending meetings, working, or doing business activities in Vietnam.

Immigration officers may question your travel purpose, especially during peak times. Make sure your visa type truly matches your visit.

4. Expect Busy Airports & Arrival Procedures

Airports like Ho Chi Minh City (Tan Son Nhat), Hanoi (Noi Bai), and Da Nang are crowded during Tet. Be prepared for Vietnam arrival procedures, which may include:

• Showing your printed Vietnam e-visa approval
• Passport validation
• Possible questions regarding travel purpose
• Accommodation or return ticket confirmation

Printed documents are highly recommended over mobile screenshots.

5. What to Expect During Tet Holiday

Tet transforms Vietnam into a festive wonderland — but also creates challenges for unprepared travelers.

✔️ What You Will Love

• Colorful decorations everywhere
• Street performances and cultural festivals
• Special Tet foods like Banh Chung and candied fruits
• Warm and joyful atmosphere
• Meaningful traditions such as lucky money giving

 

 

What You Should Prepare For

• Many shops and restaurants may close for several days
• Transportation tickets sell out early
• Higher hotel and flight prices
• Government offices (including immigration) may close temporarily

Plan schedules, reservations, and transport ahead of time.

6. Helpful Vietnam Travel Tips for First-Time Visitors

Here are useful Vietnam travel tips for foreigners visiting during Lunar New Year:

✔ Book flights and hotels early
✔ Apply for your Vietnam e-visa before the holiday rush
✔ Carry cash — some ATM services may be limited
✔ Expect friendlier but busier local crowds
✔ Enjoy local traditions respectfully

Vietnam during Tet isn’t just a trip — it’s a cultural experience you’ll remember forever.

Final Reminder

If you love culture, tradition, festivals, and unforgettable moments, traveling to Vietnam during Lunar New Year is a perfect choice. Just prepare your visa early, plan your schedule carefully, and enjoy one of the most meaningful celebrations in Asia.