Are you gearing up for a journey to Vietnam? Unraveling the intricacies of Vietnam visa requirements is paramount for a seamless entry into the country. Whether you’re a globetrotting tourist, a business professional, or an expatriate, understanding the nuances of its regulations is crucial. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll delve into the intricacies of tourist visa exemption, the necessity of a visa for different nationalities, and the essential documents required for a smooth visa application process.
Tourist Visa Exemption in Vietnam
Planning your visit to Vietnam involves more than just packing your bags. Understanding the ins and outs of Vietnam visa requirements is fundamental to a hassle-free journey. Whether you’re a tourist seeking adventure, a business traveler exploring opportunities, or an expatriate embracing a new chapter.
Is Vietnam Visa Needed for All Foreigners?
Vietnam’s visa exemption program offers a convenient entry for travelers from specific countries. However, it’s important to note that not all visitors are eligible for visa exemption. The need for a Vietnam visa depends on your nationality and the purpose of your travel.
Understanding the Vietnam visa needed is crucial to ensuring a smooth entry into the nation
As of August 2023, regular passport holders of 25 countries DO NOT need a visa for Vietnam. Here is the full list of Vietnam visa free countries and duration:
| No. | Country | Maximum Visa-Free Duration |
| 1 | Chile | 90 days |
| 2 | Panama | 90 days |
| 3 | Cambodia | 30 days |
| 4 | Indonesia | 30 days |
| 5 | Kyrgyzstan | 30 days |
| 6 | Laos | 30 days |
| 7 | Malaysia | 30 days |
| 8 | Singapore | 30 days |
| 9 | Thailand | 30 days |
| 10 | Philippines | 21 days |
| 11 | Brunei | 14 days |
| 12 | Myanmar | 14 days |
| 13 | Belarus | 45 days |
| 14 | Denmark | 45 days |
| 15 | Finland | 45 days |
| 16 | France | 45 days |
| 17 | Germany | 45 days |
| 18 | Italy | 45 days |
| 19 | Japan | 45 days |
| 20 | Norway | 45 days |
| 21 | Russia | 45 days |
| 22 | South Korea | 45 days |
| 23 | Spain | 45 days |
| 24 | Sweden | 45 days |
| 25 | United Kingdom (Not applicable to BNO) | 45 days |
Is Vietnam Visa Needed for Transit?
For those transiting through Vietnam by air or sea, specific conditions apply to be exempt from a transit visa. These conditions include possessing a valid passport, holding an onward ticket matching the route to a third country, and having a valid visa for the third country, unless exempt.
Airport Transit
Air transit through Vietnam allows foreigners to stay in the transit passenger area within the international border checkpoint. No visa is required for this purpose, and during transit, foreigners can explore Vietnam for tourism purposes based on a schedule designed by an international tourism company.
Seaport Transit
Sea transit in this country does not necessitate a transit visa. Travelers must stay in the designated seaport transit area while the ship is docked. However, it’s essential to consider the need for a Vietnam visa based on the traveler’s nationality and purpose of travel. For domestic sightseeing with an international travel company, obtaining a suitable visa for the transit time is recommended.
Required Documents for Vietnam Visa Application
If you’re planning to obtain a Vietnam visitor visa (tourist visa) in 2023, certain documents are crucial to meet the entry requirements. Ensuring you have the following documents will pave the way for a smooth entry into Vietnam:
- Passport: Ensure your passport is valid for at least six more months with one blank page for the visa sticker.
- Photos: Prepare two recent passport-sized photos (4×6 cm) without glasses or headwear obstructing your face.
- Application: Complete the M3 entry/exit form for visa on arrival.
- Stamping Fee: Be ready to pay the stamping fee in cash ($25 USD for single entry, $50 USD for multiple entries) upon arrival for visa on arrival.
- Approval Letter: Obtain an approval letter for visa on arrival at Vietnam’s airport.
- Passport Scan: Provide a scan of your passport’s bio page for e-visa application.
- Payment: Have a valid credit/debit card for online e-visa fee payment.
- Onward Travel Proof: In some cases, proof of onward travel may be necessary, even if you are exempt from entry visa requirements.
Understanding the intricacies of Vietnam visa requirements, including exemption details and the application process, is essential for a smooth and hassle-free journey. Whether you’re exploring the vibrant streets of Hanoi or relaxing on the picturesque beaches of Phu Quoc, being well-informed about Vietnam visas ensures you can focus on enjoying your travels.
Read more: Vietnam E-visa
