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Vietnam Visa Exemption Policy: Stay up to 45 Days without a Visa
Starting from August 15, 2023, Vietnam’s visa exemption policy has been fully reinstated, allowing travelers from eligible countries to stay up to 45 days visa-free. This is a significant extension compared to the previous 15-day limit, making travel more convenient and accessible. For those seeking a more streamlined visa application process, the Vietnam e-Visa remains available as a flexible option.
What is Vietnam Visa Exemption?
Vietnam Visa Exemption, also known as Visa Waiver or Visa-Free Entry, enables nationals from specific countries to enter and stay in Vietnam for a limited period without applying for a visa. This policy is based on unilateral or bilateral agreements between Vietnam and other countries.
Travelers entering Vietnam under this policy will receive an exemption stamp on their passport. However, this visa exemption is different from the Vietnam Visa Exemption Certificate (often referred to as the 5-year visa).
List of Countries Eligible for Vietnam Visa Exemption
Country Maximum Stay Purpose of Visit Chile 90 days No remunerated activities Panama 90 days No 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 Tourism, business, sports, official duties, attending seminars or press conferences Singapore 30 days No 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 (BNO excluded) 45 days Not specified
Important Notes Regarding Visa Exemption
- No 30-day waiting period: The previous regulation requiring a 30-day gap between consecutive visa-free entries has been removed since July 1, 2020.
- BNO passport holders are ineligible: Holders of British National Overseas (BNO) passports are not eligible for the 45-day exemption and must apply for a visa.
- Purpose of exemption: This policy applies to entry, exit, and transit. The duration of your stay is counted from the date of entry.
Additional Visa Exemption Cases
Phu Quoc Island Exemption:
Visitors can enjoy a 30-day visa exemption if Phu Quoc is their first entry point in Vietnam, regardless of nationality or passport type.APEC Business Travel Card (ABTC) Holders:
ABTC cardholders with valid passports can stay in Vietnam for up to 60 days without a visa.
Conditions for Vietnam Visa Exemption
To take advantage of the visa exemption policy, travelers must meet the following conditions:
- Passport Validity: Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months from the date of entry.
- Blank Pages: Your passport must have at least 2 blank pages for stamps and stickers.
Can You Extend Your Visa Exemption?
Before the COVID-19 pandemic, travelers could extend their visa exemption while in Vietnam. However, extensions are no longer available. If you wish to stay longer, you need to exit Vietnam and re-enter under a new visa exemption—this process is commonly known as a “Visa Run” to neighboring countries like Thailand, Cambodia, or Laos.
Need a Vietnam e-Visa?
For those who prefer a streamlined visa application process, applying for a Vietnam e-Visa is a quick and convenient alternative.
For any additional questions or personalized assistance, feel free to contact us at sales@getevisavietnam.com.
