Vietnam Visa Exemption Countries List & Stay Duration in 2025
This article provides an in-depth look at the Vietnam visa exemption policy for certain countries alongside their permitted stay duration in Vietnam.
What is Visa Exemption?
Visa exemption is a travel benefit that enables citizens from particular countries to visit foreign territories without obtaining a visa. The visitors from selected Vietnam visa exemption countries can access Vietnam for brief stays without requiring formal visa approval. The rule enables quicker travel access to Vietnam for citizens from countries that share agreements with the Vietnamese government. Eligible travelers benefit from this rule because they no longer need to process visas which saves them both time and money.
Vietnam Visa Exemption countries list
The Vietnam visa exemption list enables citizens from countries that have signed agreements with Vietnam to visit the country without requiring a visa for a particular duration. Some of these countries include:
No. | Country | Maximum visa-free duration | Applicable purpose of visit (if any) |
1 | Chile | 90 days | Entries that do not include remunerated activities |
2 | Panama | 90 days | Entries that do not include remunerated activities |
3 | Cambodia | 30 days | Not mentioned |
4 | Indonesia | 30 days | Not mentioned |
5 | Kyrgyzstan | 30 days | Not mentioned |
6 | Laos | 30 days | Not mentioned |
7 | Malaysia | 30 days | Tourism, attending press, conference/coverage, official duty, visiting relatives, business negotiation, investment, sports, or attending seminars or conferences |
8 | Singapore | 30 days | Entries that do not include remunerated activities |
9 | Thailand | 30 days | Not mentioned |
10 | Philippines | 21 days | Not mentioned |
11 | Brunei | 14 days | Not mentioned |
12 | Myanmar | 14 days | Visiting only |
13 | Belarus | 30 days | Total stay duration in Vietnam is no more than 90 days in a 12-month period. |
14 | Denmark | 45 days | Not mentioned |
15 | Finland | 45 days | Not mentioned |
13 | France | 45 days | Not mentioned |
17 | Germany | 45 days | Not mentioned |
18 | Italy | 45 days | Not mentioned |
19 | Japan | 45 days | Not mentioned |
20 | Norway | 45 days | Not mentioned |
21 | Russia | 45 days | Not mentioned |
22 | South Korea | 45 days | Not mentioned |
23 | Spain | 45 days | Not mentioned |
24 | Sweden | 45 days | Not mentioned |
25 | United Kingdom (Not applicable to BNO) | 45 days | Not mentioned |
26 | Kazakhstan | 45 days | Not exceeding 90 days within 180 continuous days |
27 | Switzerland | 45 days | Visit Vietnam on a tour operated by a licensed Vietnamese tour operator. |
28 | Czech Republic | 45 days | Visit Vietnam on a tour operated by a licensed Vietnamese tour operator. |
29 | Poland | 45 days | Visit Vietnam on a tour operated by a licensed Vietnamese tour operator. |
Visa Exemption: Key Updates
- The Vietnamese government eliminated the 30-day waiting period for visa exemption between multiple visits starting 1st July, 2020 based on new regulations on foreign national entry and residence.
- British National Overseas (BNO) passport holders are unable to benefit from the 45-day visa-free entry into Vietnam. They must obtain a visa through the application process before attempting entry into Vietnam.
- The visa exemption permits entry and exit and transit and its visa-free duration begins at the time of entry.
Note: The information regarding Vietnam's visa exemption policy remains accurate until March 1st 2025. Obtain the most recent and correct information about traveling by consulting the relevant authorities in your home country.
Other Cases of Vietnam Visa Exemption
The Vietnamese government has authorized specific coastal economic zones to receive a visa exemption for 30 days. To qualify, these zones must meet the following criteria:
- Possess an international airport
- Have defined boundaries and be separated from the mainland
- Align with socio-economic development policies and not pose a threat to Vietnam's national defense, security, social order, or safety.
If Phu Quoc is your initial stop in Vietnam, regardless of whether you are a foreigner or a Vietnamese citizen with a foreign passport, you can enjoy a 30-day visa exemption specifically for Phu Quoc. Yet, the requirement for a Vietnam visa does not apply to foreign visitors who stay within Phu Quoc for less than 30 days.
The APEC Business Travel Card (ABTC) holders who possess valid passports can enter Vietnam without a visa provided their stay lasts less than 60 days. The ABTC exemption for staying in Vietnam provides the solution for those who want to prolong their visit without departing from the country.
How to Extend Vietnam Visa Exemption
If you are enjoying a visa-free stay in Vietnam and wish to extend your time here beyond the allowed duration, fortunately, there are a couple of options available. However, it is important to note that the Vietnam visa exemption itself cannot be extended. Here's how you can manage your stay:
Leave and Re-enter (Visa Run)
A typical approach for a stay extension requires you to depart from Vietnam before re-entering the country. A "visa run" starts when travelers go to Thailand, Cambodia or Laos before they return to Vietnam. After your return to Vietnam you can obtain another visa exemption stamp that grants you the authorized stay period. Before returning to Vietnam you must fulfill all re-entry conditions while making sure your passport stays valid for at least six months.
Apply for a Vietnam E-Visa
You can obtain a Vietnam e-visa instead of departing the country for travelers who want to stay within the national borders. The e-visa system provides visitors with a 30-day stay duration which they can acquire by visiting the official Vietnam Immigration website. The e-Visa system provides an excellent solution for those who want to stay in Vietnam without leaving the country.
Important Considerations
- Eligibility: Verify your nationality qualifies for the Vietnam visa exemption program and fulfill all required conditions.
- Documentation: The documentation requirement includes possessing a passport valid for 6 months beyond your stay and having enough blank pages for immigration stamps.
- Legal Compliance: The violation of visa exemption rules leads to fines and deportation and can result in future bans when trying to enter Vietnam.
If you are uncertain about your options or need help navigating the process, Seniworld provides assistance to clients who need help understanding visa requirements and extension procedures or alternative options. The experts at Seniworld help clients maintain proper adherence to Vietnamese immigration regulations.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I stay longer than the allowed duration on a visa exemption?
Yes, you can apply for a visa extension, but it is subject to approval. Not all travelers may qualify for an extension.
What should I do if my country is not on the visa exemption list?
If your country is not on the list, you will need to apply for a tourist visa before entering Vietnam. You can apply for a visa at the Vietnamese embassy or online through the e-visa system.
Are there any fees for Vietnam visa exemption?
No, there are no fees for Vietnam passport visa-free entry as long as you are entering under the visa exemption agreement. However, there may be fees for visa extensions if you choose to extend your stay.
Can I enter Vietnam multiple times on a visa exemption?
It depends on the country you are from. Some countries allow multiple entries under visa exemption, while others may require you to apply for a visa if you exit and re-enter within a short period.
Conclusion
Having the knowledge about Vietnam visa exemption requirements can be essential for all future visitors to Vietnam in 2025. Eligible travelers can easily visit Vietnam through the provided list of visa exemption countries and entry conditions and stay extension procedures. The information about visa exemptions enables visitors to experience a seamless journey throughout their stay in Vietnam. Verify if your nation is included in the Vietnam visa exemption program because you should begin organizing your journey now.