This article was written and published in August 2025. Always be sure to double-check entry requirements in case of any changes.
Southeast Asia isn’t just a destination – it’s a whole movement. With around 45 million backpacking trips globally each year, and a vibrant community of young adults fuelling that number, the region delivers in spades.
If you’re one of the many who are planning that once-in-a-lifetime trip around some of the most beautiful nations in the world, it’s worth understanding what the entry rules are for each country.
Here is an updated 2025 guide to visa requirements across the Southeast Asian region. We’ve also included extra tips like digital arrival forms. However, always ensure you are checking government advice for your home country and for the destination you’re travelling to.
Brunei
Visa: Visa-free for many nationalities, usually 14 or 30 days.
Passport: Must be valid for at least six months.
Tip: An online arrival declaration is required before travel. This could potentially be requested at check-in so ensure you complete it prior to flying.
Cambodia
Visa on arrival: US $30 for 30 days.
e-Visa: US $35 for 30 days, available online.
New rule: All travellers must complete the Cambodia e-Arrival (CeA) card online within 7 days of your arrival.
Indonesia
Visa-free: Citizens of ASEAN countries for up to 30 days.
Visa on arrival/e-VOA: US $35 (IDR 500,000), valid 30 days, extendable once.
Laos
Visa: Most travellers need an e-Visa or visa on arrival (usually 30 days).
ASEAN nationals: Often visa-free.
Note: Fees and length of stay depend on your passport (always check in advance).
Malaysia
Visa-free: Many passports qualify for 30 to 90 days, depending on nationality.
Digital arrival card: The Malaysia Digital Arrival Card (MDAC) must be submitted online within 3 days before travel.
Exemptions: Citizens of Singapore and some long-term pass holders don’t need to file the MDAC.
Myanmar
e-Visa: Tourist visa US $50 (28 days); Business visa US $70 (70 days). Tourist e-Visa service fully resumed in April 2025.
Visa on arrival: Available to Indian and Chinese citizens until 29 August 2025, and to Hong Kong passport holders from March 2025 to March 2026.
Philippines
Visa-free: Most visitors get 30 days on arrival, extendable locally.
New rule: All travellers must complete the Philippines eTravel form online before entry.
Singapore
Visa-free: Many nationalities can stay 30–90 days, but the exact duration of your Visit Pass is decided by immigration when you arrive.
Arrival card: Submit the SG Arrival Card online within 3 days before travel (except Singaporean citizens, residents, or transit passengers who don’t clear immigration).
Thailand
Visa-free: Most nationalities now receive 30 or 60 days, depending on their passport.
New rules in 2025:
In May 2025, the Thailand Digital Arrival Card (TDAC) became mandatory and must be submitted online before arrival.
Visitors in Thailand may be asked again show proof of funds (typically 10,000 THB, which is just over US $300, per person or 20,000 THB (just over US $600 per family)).
Timor-Leste
Visa on arrival: US $30 for 30 days.
Extensions: Possible in Dili for up to 90 days total.
Passport: Must be valid for at least six months.
Vietnam
Visa-free: Selected nationalities (including the UK) can now stay 45 days without a visa.
e-Visa: Open to all nationalities since August 2023. Valid for up to 90 days, single entry (US $25) or multiple entry (US $50).
Special case: Arrive directly into Phu Quoc Island and you can stay 30 days visa-free.
If Vietnam is on your itinerary, read more about what to pack when you have limited space.
Tips for planning ahead
Keep your passport valid for at least six months before entry.
- Always check whether you need to submit required digital arrival cards and forms, or even apply for an e-visa prior to flying – it’s better to be safe than sorry.
Proof of onward travel and sufficient funds is always worth having. A lot of destinations will ask you where you are staying and how long you are planning to visit for when you arrive at the airport security.
Additional tip: Pre-book at least your first night’s accommodation; you might be asked for the address.
- Print or save your e-Visa confirmations to show at border control.
With these rules in mind, you’ll breeze through airports and border crossings – leaving more time to enjoy night markets, hidden beaches, and the adventure that Southeast Asia promises.
