Traveling to Vietnam is easier for citizens of certain countries that enjoy visa-free entry. Understanding the visa exemption policy can help you plan your trip better, knowing whether you need to apply for a visa or if you can enter the country without one. This guide provides a comprehensive list of visa-free countries for Vietnam and the duration of stay allowed under this exemption.
Understanding Vietnam’s Visa Exemption Policy
Vietnam’s visa exemption policy allows citizens of certain countries to enter Vietnam without a visa for a specified period. The duration of the visa-free stay varies depending on the country. This exemption generally applies to short visits for tourism, business, or family visits.
List of Visa-Free Countries and Duration of Stay
| Region | Country | Duration of Stay | Purpose of Visit |
|---|---|---|---|
| ASEAN Countries | Thailand | Up to 30 days | Not mentioned |
| Singapore | Up to 30 days | Entries that do not include remunerated activities | |
| Malaysia | Up to 30 days | Tourism, business, official duty, attending conferences, etc. | |
| Indonesia | Up to 30 days | Not mentioned | |
| Cambodia | Up to 30 days | Not mentioned | |
| Laos | Up to 30 days | Not mentioned | |
| Myanmar | Up to 14 days | Visiting only | |
| Brunei | Up to 14 days | Not mentioned | |
| Philippines | Up to 21 days | Not mentioned | |
| European Countries | United Kingdom | Up to 45 days | Not mentioned |
| France | Up to 45 days | Not mentioned | |
| Germany | Up to 45 days | Not mentioned | |
| Italy | Up to 45 days | Not mentioned | |
| Spain | Up to 45 days | Not mentioned | |
| Denmark | Up to 45 days | Not mentioned | |
| Norway | Up to 45 days | Not mentioned | |
| Sweden | Up to 45 days | Not mentioned | |
| Finland | Up to 45 days | Not mentioned | |
| Belarus | Up to 45 days | Not mentioned | |
| Russia | Up to 45 days | Not mentioned | |
| Asian Countries | Japan | Up to 45 days | Not mentioned |
| South Korea | Up to 45 days | Not mentioned | |
| Kyrgyzstan | Up to 30 days | Not mentioned | |
| Latin American Countries | Chile | Up to 90 days | Entries that do not include remunerated activities |
| Panama | Up to 90 days | Entries that do not include remunerated activities |
Important Notes on Visa Exemption
- No Waiting Period: The previous 30-day waiting period between consecutive stays under the visa exemption policy has been eliminated.
- BNO Passports: Holders of British National Overseas (BNO) passports are not eligible for the 45-day visa exemption and must apply for a visa.
- Visa-Free for Phu Quoc: Visitors to Phu Quoc can enjoy a 30-day visa exemption, regardless of nationality.
- APEC Business Travel Card Holders: APEC Business Travel Card (ABTC) holders with valid passports do not need a visa for stays up to 60 days.
Visa Extension and Re-Entry
- No Extension for Exemptions: Currently, visa exemptions cannot be extended within Vietnam. To stay longer, travelers must leave and re-enter the country, a practice known as a “Visa Run.”
- Re-Entry Rules: After using the visa-free period, travelers may re-enter Vietnam with a new visa or another visa-free entry if applicable.
Special Considerations
Visa Exemption for Multiple Nationalities
If you hold dual nationality and one of your passports is from a visa-free country, you may enter Vietnam without a visa using that passport. Ensure that your passport is valid and that you meet the entry requirements.
Extending Stay Beyond Visa-Free Period
If you need to stay in Vietnam longer than the visa-free period allows, you must apply for a visa before your arrival or exit and re-enter with a new visa. Some travelers opt to do a “visa run” to neighboring countries.
Impacts of Overstaying
Overstaying your visa-free period in Vietnam can result in fines, deportation, and difficulties with future travel to Vietnam. Always ensure you leave the country or apply for an appropriate visa before your exemption period ends.
FAQs About Visa-Free Travel to Vietnam
Q: Can I extend my visa-free stay in Vietnam?
A: Typically, the visa-free period cannot be extended. You would need to leave the country and re-enter with a new visa or wait until you are eligible for another visa-free entry.
Q: What should I do if I want to stay longer than the visa-free period?
A: You must apply for a visa before your visa-free period ends or leave and re-enter with a new visa if eligible.
Q: Are there any hidden requirements for visa-free entry?
A: Besides holding a valid passport, you may need to show proof of onward travel or sufficient funds for your stay. Always check the latest entry requirements before traveling.
Q: Can I re-enter Vietnam after using the visa-free period?
A: Yes, but some countries may require you to wait a specified period before re-entering without a visa, usually 30 days.
Q: What happens if I overstay my visa-free period in Vietnam?
A: Overstaying can result in fines, deportation, and future entry bans. It’s important to exit Vietnam or obtain a visa before your visa-free period expires.
Conclusion
Understanding the visa exemption policy for Vietnam can save you time and money, especially if you’re a citizen of one of the countries that enjoy visa-free entry. Always check the latest regulations before traveling and consider your options if you need to stay longer than the allowed period. For additional travel planning or to explore Vietnam, consider using a reliable service like Indochina Dirt Bike Tours, where you can get expert advice and comprehensive travel packages tailored to your needs.
