Lesotho entry requirements for Vietnam passport holders
Updated weekly · Last reviewed August 6, 2026·View sources
Visa required
Max stay
No fixed limit
Passport validity
6 months
Beyond entry date
Return ticket
Required
Or onward travel proof
Proof of funds
Recommended
May be checked
Vietnamese passport holders must obtain a visa before traveling to Lesotho. There is no visa-on-arrival option at the border, so you need to apply through a Lesotho embassy or consulate in advance. Start the process early to avoid travel disruptions.
Entry requirements
| Requirement | Details | Status |
|---|---|---|
| Visa for LesothoYou need to get a visa approved before you fly — you cannot get one when you land. Required for Vietnamese citizens | Vietnamese passport holders must obtain a visa before traveling to Lesotho. Apply at the nearest Lesotho embassy or high commission. There is no visa-on-arrival or e-visa facility for Vietnamese citizens. | Required |
| Passport validityCheck your passport expiry date — if it's too close, renew it before applying for the visa. At least 6 months beyond your stay | Your Vietnamese passport must be valid for at least 6 months from your date of entry into Lesotho. Ensure your passport does not expire during your trip. | Required |
| Blank passport pagesImmigration officers need a clean page to stamp — make sure you have one. At least 1 blank page | Your passport must have at least 1 blank page for the entry stamp. It is recommended to have 2 blank pages to avoid issues at immigration. | Required |
| Return or onward ticketHave your flight itinerary handy — officials may ask to see it. Proof of departure | You may be asked to show a return or onward ticket proving you will leave Lesotho before your visa expires. Have a printed or digital copy ready. | Required |
| Proof of sufficient fundsIt's not always asked, but having proof of money helps avoid problems at entry. For your stay | Be prepared to show evidence of sufficient funds (e.g., bank statements, cash, credit cards) to cover your expenses during your stay in Lesotho. | Recommended |
| Visa application documentsGather all the paperwork the embassy asks for — missing documents can delay your visa. Supporting paperwork | When applying for the Lesotho visa, you will typically need a completed application form, passport-sized photos, flight itinerary, hotel booking, proof of funds, and possibly an invitation letter. Check with the embassy for the exact list. | Required |
| Arrival declarationYou don't need to fill out any extra forms on arrival. Not required | No arrival declaration or health form is required for entry into Lesotho for Vietnamese citizens. | Not required |
No visa-on-arrival — apply early
Vietnamese passport holders cannot get a visa at the border. You must secure a visa from a Lesotho embassy or consulate before you fly. Start the process at least 4 weeks ahead to avoid last-minute stress.
Embassy coverage for Vietnam
There is no Lesotho embassy in Vietnam. You'll likely deal with the Lesotho High Commission in Kuala Lumpur or Bangkok. Confirm their exact requirements and whether they accept mailed applications — this can save you a trip.
What happens at the border
1
Contact the nearest Lesotho embassy or consulate
Find the Lesotho diplomatic mission that covers Vietnam — often this is in a neighbouring country like Thailand or Malaysia. Call or email them to confirm the exact application procedure, required documents, and fee. Ask whether they accept mailed applications or require an in-person visit.
2
Prepare your application package
Gather all required documents: passport, photos, application form, flight itinerary, accommodation proof, and bank statements. Make photocopies of everything — the embassy will likely keep the originals for processing. Ensure your passport has at least 1 blank page and is valid for 6 months beyond your planned departure from Lesotho.
3
Submit your application in person or by mail
Some embassies require an in-person appointment; others accept mailed applications. If you are in Vietnam, you may need to send your passport to the embassy via courier. Allow extra time for shipping and processing.
4
Wait for processing
Processing times vary — typically 5–10 working days, but can be longer. Check with the embassy for current timelines. Don't book non-refundable flights until you have the visa in hand.
5
Collect your passport with the visa
Once approved, you'll get your passport back with the visa sticker. Verify the dates and spelling of your name before leaving the embassy. If anything is wrong, ask for a correction immediately.
6
Arrive at Moshoeshoe I International Airport (Maseru)
On arrival, present your passport with the visa, your return ticket, and proof of accommodation. Immigration will stamp you in. Keep your documents handy — they may ask for them again at departure.
Download Lesotho Entry Checklist
PDF · Vietnam Passport · Includes QR codes · Updated August 6, 2026
Staying longer & fees
Visa options if you want to stay beyond the free limit:
Business visa
Max stay90 days
Validity3 months from date of issue
Cost$150 (approx.)
Requires invitation letter from Lesotho company and proof of business purpose.
Work permit / residence visa
Max stayUp to 2 years
ValidityVaries
Cost$200–$500 (approx.)
Requires employer sponsorship and approval from Lesotho Ministry of Home Affairs.
work visa
Work Permit
1 year, renewable annually
~$500 USD (approx. 11,500,000 VND) per year
For those with a job offer in Lesotho. Requires employer sponsorship and labor market test. Allows long-term stay and multiple entries.
student visa
Student Visa
Duration of studies, renewable
~$200 USD (approx. 4,600,000 VND) per year
For enrolled students at recognized institutions in Lesotho. Requires acceptance letter and proof of funds.
investor visa
Investor Permit
2 years, renewable
~$1,000 USD (approx. 23,000,000 VND) initial fee
For investors with significant capital (minimum $50,000 USD) in Lesotho. Requires business plan and proof of investment.
Other fees
| Service | Cost |
|---|---|
| Visa on arrival (single entry, 30 days)Payable in cash (USD, EUR, ZAR) at point of entry; exact amount may vary. | $50 (approx.) |
| Visa on arrival (multiple entry, 30 days)For multiple entries within 30 days. | $100 (approx.) |
| Visa on arrival (single entry, 90 days)For longer stays; must be pre-approved by Lesotho Immigration. | $150 (approx.) |
| Visa extension (per month)Apply at the Department of Immigration in Maseru before current visa expires. | $50 (approx.) |
Common reasons for entry denial
Insufficient funds30%
No return ticket25%
Incomplete application20%
Approval probability calculator
Answer 6 quick questions — we'll estimate how likely you are to be approved for entry based on typical immigration patterns.
Transiting through Lesotho
No transit visa needed
Vietnamese citizens transiting through Lesotho (e.g., via Moshoeshoe I International Airport) do not require a visa if staying airside and continuing to a third country within 24 hours.
Airside transitAllowed up to 24h
Exceptions & conditions
- If leaving the airport transit area, a visa is required.
- If the connecting flight is delayed beyond 24 hours, a visa may be required.
Transit hubsMoshoeshoe I International Airport (MSU)
Health & vaccines for Lesotho
Required for entry
Yellow FeverRequired if arriving from a country with yellow fever transmission risk.
Recommended vaccines
Hepatitis AEssentialTyphoidEssentialRoutine vaccines (MMR, DTP, polio)EssentialHepatitis BRecommendedRabiesConsider
Health risks
MalariaLow risk
Low risk in lowland areas; prophylaxis recommended for rural travel.
Diarrheal diseasesModerate risk
Common due to food and water contamination; practice safe eating and drinking.
HIV/AIDSHigh risk
High prevalence; take precautions and avoid risky behaviors.
Malaria risk: low
Low risk in most areas; prophylaxis recommended for travel to rural lowland regions.
Based on CDC and WHO guidance. Consult a travel medicine clinic 4–6 weeks before departure for personalised advice.
Immigration offices for extensions
Maseru
Lesotho Immigration Office - Maseru
Kingsway Road, Maseru 100
Mon–Fri 08:00–16:30
Main office for visa extensions and permits. Bring passport, photos, and fee.
Maseru
Lesotho Department of Immigration
P.O. Box 363, Maseru 100
Mon–Fri 08:00–16:30
Handles visa applications and renewals.
Practical information for VN travellers
Country basics
CapitalMaseru
LanguageSesotho, English
Driving sideLeft-hand traffic
US driving licenceUS visitors can drive with a valid US driver's license for up to 90 days.
Money
CurrencyLesotho loti (LSL)
Exchange rate
1 USD = 16.27 LSL
Time zone
Local timeUTC+2
vs New York+7h
vs Los Angeles+10h
Electricity
Voltage220V / 50Hz
Plug types
MType M (three round pins, similar to South Africa)
⚠ US adapter needed
Water & health
Tap water
Not safe — use bottled
Tap water is not safe to drink; stick to bottled or boiled water.
Emergency numbers
Frequently asked questions
No. Lesotho does not offer visa-on-arrival for Vietnamese passport holders. You must obtain a visa before you travel.
Processing typically takes 5–10 working days, but it can be longer depending on the embassy and your application. It's best to apply at least 3–4 weeks before your planned departure.
Fees vary by visa type and nationality. Contact the Lesotho embassy or consulate for the exact fee. Expect to pay anywhere from $50 to $150 — ask for a receipt.
Lesotho does not have an embassy in Vietnam. The nearest missions are in Bangkok (Thailand) or Kuala Lumpur (Malaysia). You may need to apply by mail or in person at one of these offices.
No, the visa is not extendable. You must leave the country before your visa expires. Overstaying can result in fines or deportation.
If you're transiting and leaving the airport, you'll need a visa. If you're staying airside (not passing immigration), you may not need one — but confirm with your airline and the embassy, as rules can change.
Lesotho requires a yellow fever certificate if you're arriving from a country with risk of yellow fever transmission. Vietnam is not on that list, so it's not required for direct travel, but if you've been in an affected country recently, bring your certificate.
Official sources
Always verify before you travel
Entry requirements change. This page was verified on August 6, 2026. Always check the official embassy or government source before booking. Report an error — we update within 24 hours.