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No matter which country you are going to, it’s really important to be aware of the country’s major public holidays, as Government offices, Embassies, and departments those relate to visa issuance, extensions, etc. typically close during these periods. This article will provide you with details of Vietnam’s main national holidays (public holidays) so you can schedule the travel itinerary in advance.
New Year Holiday
Date: January 01
Like many countries around the world, Vietnam celebrates the Gregorian New Year on January 01. While it’s a relatively short holiday compared to others, most Government offices, banks, and businesses close for the day, and of course Immigration offices and Vietnamese embassies abroad will not process Vietnam visa applications during this time as well. As a result, if you have plan arriving Vietnam on New Year’s Eve or New Year’s Day, please be recommended to apply for a Vietnam visa earlier to avoid limited administrative services and possible delays in document processing.
Lunar New Year Holiday
Date: Varies each year, usually late January or February (normally 5 to 7, or even 9 days off)
This year, the Vietnam Government approved the Lunar New Year Holiday spanning from Feb 14 to 22, 2026.
The Lunar New Year, or Tết Nguyên Đán, or shortly Tết, is Vietnam’s biggest and most important holiday. Tết marks the beginning of the lunar calendar year and is a time for family reunions, ancestor worship, and nationwide celebration. Consequently, most Government offices, including immigration departments, embassies, and visa processing centers, are closed during this period. Besides, many businesses, restaurants, and tourist attractions may also operate, but with reduced hours or close entirely for several days, especially the first three days of the new year.
While travel during Tết can be an incredible chance for you to experience the unique Asian culture, it is highly advised that you plan the journey carefully around this time, for example applying for Vietnam visa well in advance. This is also one of the busiest travel seasons of the year when airports are crowded with lines, flight tickets price higher, accommodation availability is limited, and in some cases visa application can be even slower.
Hung Kings’ Commemoration Day
Date: The 10th day of the third lunar month (usually in April)
This day honors the Hung Kings, the legendary founders of the Vietnamese nation, and became the public holiday of the whole country since. The Hung King’s Commemoration Day is marked by ceremonies and traditional festivals, particularly in Phu Tho Province, where the Hung Temple is located. The certain day will be at the 20th day of the third lunar month, can be varied each year, but normally in April when all offices from the government, schools, and state agencies, including visa and immigration departments, close for the day.
Reunification Day & International Labor Day
Date: April 30 & May 01
Reunification Day commemorates the end of the Vietnam War and reunification of the country, becoming one of the most significant holidays of the country. Followed by Labor Day honoring workers and labor movements worldwide on May 01, they create a two-day consecutive public holiday, often resulting in a long holiday stretch of 03 to 04 straight days. During this time, all public offices are closed, therefore those need to apply for a Vietnam visa or other administrative procedures should complete them before April 29 or after May 2 to avoid delays. Moreover, this time is also a peak domestic travel period, with many Vietnamese people taking short vacations, so airports can be crowded and flights and trains prices are higher than usual.
Vietnam’s Independence Day
Date: September 2
National Day celebrates the founding of the Democratic Republic of Vietnam on September 2, 1945, marking it one of the most patriotic days of the year, celebrated by flags, parades, and festivals across the country. Depending on the calendar year, the Vietnamese government may add an extra day off, creating a longer weekend. Accordingly, travelers should check in advance and adjust Vietnam visa processing schedules as all government offices, including visa and immigration departments are closed.
Why understand Vietnam public holidays important?
For a smooth trip preparation, administrative matters such as Vietnam e-Visa in particular, it’s essential to plan ahead, because during public holidays in Vietnam:
- Immigration and visa offices close, including those handling with e-Visas and extensions;
- Delays in visa processing can occur before and after holidays due to huge volume;
👉 Notes: Those who use Vietnam visa exemption can visit the country normally.
To conclusion, public holidays in Vietnam are colorful and culturally rich, worthying to visit, as it offers you amazing opportunities to see local traditions, festivals, and the national pride. But always remember to check the official government holiday schedule for the year, as dates may shift when holidays fall on weekends. By preparing in advance, you can expect to enjoy Vietnam’s celebrations without facing any unwanted troubles.
Disclaimer: While we put an effort to ensure that the provided information is correct and up-to-date, there are probably changes which we are unaware of.
