Vietnam offers visa exemptions for citizens from over 20 countries, making travel easier and more convenient. Some of the countries on the list include Japan, South Korea, Germany, France, and the United States. Depending on your nationality, you can stay in Vietnam for periods ranging from 15 to 90 days without needing a visa. Check out the full list of Vietnam visa-free countries and their specific stay durations in this guide!
What is a Vietnam visa exemption?
Vietnam’s visa exemption policy allows citizens of certain countries to visit and stay in Vietnam for a specified period without going through the process of applying for a visa. This policy is based on agreements, either mutual or unilateral, between Vietnam and other nations to promote travel and international cooperation.
Currently, this exemption applies to travelers from 25 countries who are permitted to enter Vietnam and stay for periods ranging from 14 to 90 days, depending on their nationality.
Key features of the Vietnam visa exemption:
- Eligibility: To qualify for visa exemption, travelers must hold a valid passport with at least six months of remaining validity and two blank pages for entry stamps.
- Duration: The length of stay allowed under the visa exemption varies by nationality; some can stay for up to 45 days without a visa.
- Application: Eligible travelers do not need to complete any pre-arrival procedures other than ensuring their passport meets the validity requirements. Upon arrival, they simply present their passport at the immigration checkpoint.
- Extensions: Visa exemption does not allow for extensions while in Vietnam. If travelers wish to stay longer than the exempted duration, they must leave the country and re-enter with a new visa exemption or apply for a visa.
The list of 26 Vietnam visa-free countries
In 2024, Vietnam allowed nationals from 25 countries to visit without a visa, subject to predefined stay limits. The table below highlights these Vietnam visa-free countries and their permitted durations of stay.
| Country | Maximum Visa-Free Duration | Notes |
| Chile | 90 days | Entries that do not include remunerated activities |
| Panama | 90 days | Entries that do not include remunerated activities |
| Cambodia | 30 days | Not specified |
| Indonesia | 30 days | Not specified |
| Kyrgyzstan | 30 days | Not specified |
| Laos | 30 days | Not specified |
| Malaysia | 30 days | Various purposes, including tourism and business |
| Singapore | 30 days | Entries that do not include remunerated activities |
| Thailand | 30 days | Not specified |
| Philippines | 21 days | Not specified |
| Brunei | 14 days | Not specified |
| Myanmar | 14 days | Visiting only |
| Belarus | 45 days | Not specified |
| Denmark | 45 days | Not specified |
| Finland | 45 days | Not specified |
| France | 45 days | Not specified |
| Germany | 45 days | Not specified |
| Italy | 45 days | Not specified |
| Japan | 45 days | Not specified |
| Norway | 45 days | Not specified |
| Russia | 45 days | Not specified |
| South Korea | 45 days | Not specified |
| Spain | 45 days | Not specified |
| Sweden | 45 days | Not specified |
| United Kingdom (excluding BNO) | 45 days | Not specified |
| Kazakhstan | Up to 90 days within 180 days | Specific conditions apply |
Key points:
- Travelers must have a valid passport with at least two blank pages.
- The visa exemption allows for stays without any visa application process.
- To stay longer than the exempted duration, travelers must apply for a visa or an e-visa.
- This visa exemption policy is subject to change, so it’s advisable to check the latest regulations before traveling.
Vietnam visa exemption cases
Vietnam offers specific visa exemption cases primarily aimed at overseas Vietnamese and their families, as well as certain foreign nationals. Here are the key categories and details regarding these exemptions.
5-Year Visa Exemption Certificate
Eligibility:
- Overseas Vietnamese: Individuals of Vietnamese descent who reside abroad and hold a valid passport or international travel document.
- Foreign Spouses and Children: Foreign nationals who are spouses or children of Vietnamese citizens or overseas Vietnamese.
Validity:
- The visa exemption certificate is valid for up to 5 years, allowing multiple entries into Vietnam, but each stay cannot exceed 180 days. Extensions are possible if further stays are required.
Application requirements:
- Completed application form.
- Recent passport photographs.
- Valid passport with at least one year remaining before expiration.
- Documentation proving Vietnamese origin (for overseas Vietnamese) or proof of relationship (for foreign spouses/children) such as marriage or birth certificates.
APEC Business Travel Card (ABTC) Holders
Foreigners holding an APEC Business Travel Card (ABTC) benefit from a streamlined visa exemption process when entering Vietnam. Here are the key details regarding this exemption:
- Visa exemption: ABTC holders can enter Vietnam without a visa for stays of up to 60 days. This exemption is particularly advantageous for business travelers, facilitating easier access to the Vietnamese market.
- Fast-track entry: Cardholders enjoy expedited immigration processing through designated lanes at major international airports in Vietnam, significantly reducing wait times upon arrival.
Moreover, the ABTC is available to eligible business travelers and senior government officials from APEC member economies. Applicants must hold a valid passport and typically engage in frequent business travel within the APEC region.
For a single application, the process is simplified. Candidates need to submit only one application to their home economy, which will then be assessed by other participating economies for pre-clearance.
If an ABTC holder wishes to extend their stay beyond the initial 60 days, they can apply for an extension while in Vietnam. Each extension can be granted for up to 3 months, with the total stay not exceeding 9 months. The process involves submitting required documents and paying a fee, typically completed within five working days.
Coastal Economic Zones Visa Exemption
Individuals entering designated coastal economic zones may be eligible for a 30-day visa exemption. These zones must meet specific criteria, including having an international airport and being aligned with Vietnam’s socio-economic policies. An example of such a zone is Phu Quoc Island.
Unilateral Visa Exemptions
Vietnam grants unilateral visa exemptions based on international treaties or diplomatic relations with specific countries. For example, holders of a British National Overseas (BNO) passport do not qualify for the 15-day visa exemption and must therefore obtain a valid visa to enter Vietnam. These exemptions are subject to conditions related to Vietnam’s national security and foreign policy considerations.
FAQs
1. Is Vietnam visa-free?
Vietnam offers a visa exemption for citizens of certain countries, allowing them to enter and stay without a visa for specified durations. Actually, citizens from 25 countries can enjoy this exemption, with stay periods ranging from 14 to 90 days, depending on nationality.
2. How to extend the Vietnam visa exemption?
To extend a Vietnam visa exemption, travelers must exit the country and can then re-enter immediately for another visa-free stay, as there is no longer a required waiting period between visits.
3. What countries are exempt from the Vietnam visa?
Countries exempt from the Vietnam visa include Chile, Panama, Belarus, various ASEAN countries (like Thailand and Singapore), and several European nations (including Germany, France, and the UK), among others.
Final thoughts
In summary, Vietnam’s visa exemption makes it easier for travelers from over 20 countries to visit and enjoy everything this amazing destination has to offer. With no visa application required, it is a hassle-free way to experience Vietnam’s stunning landscapes, rich culture, and delicious food.
Before you pack your bags, be sure to check how long you are allowed to stay and any other rules that apply to your country. If you found this guide helpful, don’t forget to like and share it with your fellow travelers!