Vietnam Visa Exemption Guide – Updated Information for Travelers
1. Introduction
Vietnam offers a visa exemption to citizens of certain countries, allowing them to enter the country for a limited period without the need for a visa. This visa exemption is applicable for both tourism and business purposes, and it can save travelers time and money during their visit to Vietnam. The conditions and duration of the visa exemption vary depending on the traveler’s nationality.
2. Countries with Visa Exemption for Vietnam
As of 2023, Vietnam grants visa exemptions to the citizens of the following countries and territories:
| Country/Territory | Duration of Stay | Purpose | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Brunei | 14 days | Tourism/Business | Citizens of Brunei are exempt from visa requirements for short stays. |
| Cambodia | 30 days | Tourism/Business | Citizens of Cambodia can stay in Vietnam for up to 30 days without a visa. |
| Indonesia | 30 days | Tourism/Business | Indonesian citizens are eligible for a visa exemption for up to 30 days. |
| Laos | 30 days | Tourism/Business | Lao citizens can visit Vietnam visa-free for up to 30 days. |
| Malaysia | 30 days | Tourism/Business | Malaysian nationals can stay in Vietnam for up to 30 days without a visa. |
| Myanmar | 14 days | Tourism/Business | Myanmar citizens are granted a visa exemption for short stays. |
| Philippines | 21 days | Tourism/Business | Citizens of the Philippines can stay in Vietnam for up to 21 days without a visa. |
| Singapore | 30 days | Tourism/Business | Singaporean passport holders can stay in Vietnam for up to 30 days visa-free. |
| Thailand | 30 days | Tourism/Business | Thai nationals are eligible for a 30-day visa exemption. |
| South Korea | 15 days | Tourism/Business | South Korean passport holders can stay in Vietnam visa-free for up to 15 days. |
| Japan | 15 days | Tourism/Business | Japanese citizens can enter Vietnam visa-free for up to 15 days. |
| Russia | 15 days | Tourism/Business | Russian nationals are granted a 15-day visa exemption. |
| Sweden | 15 days | Tourism/Business | Citizens of Sweden can stay in Vietnam for up to 15 days without a visa. |
| Denmark | 15 days | Tourism/Business | Danish nationals are exempt from a visa for stays up to 15 days. |
| Norway | 15 days | Tourism/Business | Norway nationals can enter Vietnam visa-free for 15 days. |
| Finland | 15 days | Tourism/Business | Finnish passport holders are allowed to stay in Vietnam for up to 15 days without a visa. |
| Germany | 15 days | Tourism/Business | German nationals can visit Vietnam for up to 15 days without a visa. |
| United Kingdom | 15 days | Tourism/Business | UK citizens are eligible for a visa exemption for up to 15 days. |
| France | 15 days | Tourism/Business | French passport holders can stay visa-free in Vietnam for up to 15 days. |
| Italy | 15 days | Tourism/Business | Citizens of Italy can stay in Vietnam without a visa for up to 15 days. |
| Spain | 15 days | Tourism/Business | Spanish citizens are granted visa exemption for stays up to 15 days. |
| Belgium | 15 days | Tourism/Business | Belgian nationals can enter Vietnam visa-free for up to 15 days. |
| Luxembourg | 15 days | Tourism/Business | Luxembourg citizens are eligible for a visa exemption for up to 15 days. |
| Netherlands | 15 days | Tourism/Business | Citizens of the Netherlands can stay in Vietnam for 15 days without a visa. |
| Poland | 15 days | Tourism/Business | Polish citizens can stay in Vietnam visa-free for up to 15 days. |
| Czech Republic | 15 days | Tourism/Business | Czech nationals can visit Vietnam without a visa for up to 15 days. |
| Slovakia | 15 days | Tourism/Business | Slovak citizens can enter Vietnam visa-free for 15 days. |
| Hungary | 15 days | Tourism/Business | Hungarian nationals are granted a visa exemption for stays of 15 days. |
| Romania | 15 days | Tourism/Business | Citizens of Romania can stay in Vietnam for up to 15 days without a visa. |
| Bulgaria | 15 days | Tourism/Business | Bulgarian nationals are eligible for a visa exemption for 15 days. |
| Croatia | 15 days | Tourism/Business | Citizens of Croatia can visit Vietnam without a visa for 15 days. |
| Slovenia | 15 days | Tourism/Business | Slovenian nationals can stay in Vietnam for up to 15 days without a visa. |
| Estonia | 15 days | Tourism/Business | Estonian citizens are granted a 15-day visa exemption for travel to Vietnam. |
| Latvia | 15 days | Tourism/Business | Latvian nationals can stay in Vietnam visa-free for up to 15 days. |
| Lithuania | 15 days | Tourism/Business | Lithuanian nationals can enter Vietnam without a visa for 15 days. |
| Australia | 15 days | Tourism/Business | Australian citizens are granted a visa exemption for 15 days. |
3. Requirements for Visa Exemption
To qualify for a Vietnam visa exemption, travelers must meet the following requirements:
- Passport validity: Must be valid for at least 6 months from the date of entry.
- Return ticket: Travelers should have a return or onward ticket to prove their departure from Vietnam before the exemption period ends.
- Purpose of visit: Must align with the visa exemption categories (tourism, business, or family visit).
4. How to Extend a Visa Exemption
For nationals who are eligible for a visa exemption but wish to stay longer than the allotted time, the following options are available:
- Visa Extension: You may apply for an extension of stay through the Vietnamese immigration office.
- Visa Run: Leaving and re-entering Vietnam after the visa exemption period may allow a new period of stay.
5. Special Conditions
- Not all nationalities are covered by the visa exemption agreement. If your nationality is not listed, you will need to apply for a standard visa through the Vietnamese embassy or consulate.
- Citizens from countries with ongoing diplomatic restrictions may face delays or other limitations in their visa exemption status.
6. Additional Information
Vietnam’s visa exemption policy is subject to change. It is advisable to verify the latest requirements before planning your travel. If you are unsure about your visa exemption eligibility, you can consult the Vietnamese embassy or consulate in your country.
Make sure to follow the guidelines for a smooth and hassle-free visit to Vietnam. Whether for business, tourism, or family visits, Vietnam offers flexibility and ease for many international travelers!
