Traveling to Vietnam has become more convenient than ever, thanks to the Vietnam visa exemption policy, which allows citizens of certain countries to visit Vietnam without applying for a visa. This privilege, also known as the Vietnam visa-free entry or visa waiver program, enables eligible travelers to explore the country for a specified duration without any visa formalities.
Unlike the Vietnam 5-year visa exemption certificate (granted to overseas Vietnamese or their spouses/children), the standard visa exemption applies to short-term visitors entering Vietnam for tourism, business, or family visits. Upon entry, travelers receive a visa exemption stamp on their passport, specifying the duration of stay permitted.
Key Highlights
- As of 2026, citizens from 38 countries can enter Vietnam visa-free for periods ranging from 14 to 90 days, depending on nationality.
- Travelers only need a valid passport with at least two blank pages and a minimum validity of six months.
- To stay longer than the visa-free duration, visitors can apply for a Vietnam eVisa (valid up to 90 days).
- For smoother entry at airports, travelers are encouraged to use Vietnam Airport Fast-Track Services to expedite immigration procedures.
Vietnam Visa-Free Countries and Duration
Below is the updated list of Vietnam visa exemption countries and the maximum duration of stay for each, as of September 2025 till now:
| No. | Country | Maximum Stay | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Chile | 90 days | Non-remunerated activities |
| 2 | Panama | 90 days | Non-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, business, press, conference |
| 8 | Singapore | 30 days | Non-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 | Up to 90 days total per 12 months |
| 14 | Denmark | 45 days | Not mentioned |
| 15 | Finland | 45 days | Not mentioned |
| 16 | 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 (except BNO) | 45 days | Not mentioned |
| 26 | Kazakhstan | 45 days | Max 90 days within 180 days |
| 27 | Switzerland | 45 days | Not mentioned |
| 28 | Czech Republic | 45 days | Not mentioned |
| 29 | Poland | 45 days | Not mentioned |
| 30 | Belgium | 45 days | Not mentioned |
| 31 | Bulgaria | 45 days | Not mentioned |
| 32 | Croatia | 45 days | Not mentioned |
| 33 | Hungary | 45 days | Not mentioned |
| 34 | Luxembourg | 45 days | Not mentioned |
| 35 | Netherlands | 45 days | Not mentioned |
| 36 | Romania | 45 days | Not mentioned |
| 37 | Slovakia | 45 days | Not mentioned |
| 38 | Slovenia | 45 days | Not mentioned |
Important Notes on Visa Exemption
- The 30-day gap between two visa-free entries was officially abolished under the Immigration Law effective July 1, 2020.
- British National Overseas (BNO) passport holders are not eligible for visa exemption.
- The visa-free period starts from the date of entry stamped in your passport.
- Always confirm the latest policies with the Vietnamese embassy or immigration authority before traveling, as exemptions may be subject to change.
Other Vietnam Visa Exemption Cases
Apart from the countries listed above, Vietnam also grants visa exemptions under special circumstances:
- 30-day exemption for specific economic zones: Foreigners entering designated coastal economic zones (with international airports, clear boundaries, and no security concerns) are exempted for up to 30 days. The most notable example is Phu Quoc Island, where foreign visitors can stay visa-free for up to 30 days.
- APEC Business Travel Card (ABTC) holders with valid passports are exempt from visa requirements for stays up to 60 days in Vietnam.
Conditions for Visa-Free Entry
To be eligible for visa exemption, travelers must ensure the following:
- A passport valid for at least 6 months beyond the date of entry.
- At least two blank pages for immigration stamps.
- Entry must fall within the eligible visa-free category.
Vietnam Visa Exemption Extension
Currently, Vietnam visa exemption extensions are not available. Travelers who wish to stay beyond their permitted period must choose one of the following options:
- Visa Run – Exit Vietnam to a neighboring country (e.g., Thailand, Laos, Cambodia) and re-enter to obtain a new visa exemption period.
- Apply for a Vietnam eVisa – Obtain a 90-day eVisa before returning to Vietnam for longer stays.
>> Read more about Vietnam evisa: The complete 2026 guide for foreigners
In case you need advice, feel free to let us know at our hotline/zalo/whatsapp/viber No.+84 982 500 802 or our email [email protected].
How to Speed Up Entry with Vietnam Visa Exemption
All travelers, whether visa-exempt or holding a valid visa, must go through immigration checks upon arrival. To minimize waiting times, passengers can use Vietnam Airport Fast-Track Services, available at major airports like Noi Bai (Hanoi), Tan Son Nhat (Ho Chi Minh City), and Da Nang International Airport.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to apply for Vietnam visa exemption in advance?
No. Eligible travelers do not need to apply beforehand. Simply arrive in Vietnam with a valid passport and receive a visa exemption stamp at the port of entry.
Can I extend my visa-free stay in Vietnam?
No. Visa-free stays cannot be extended. You must either leave and re-enter Vietnam (visa run) or apply for a new visa, such as a Vietnam eVisa.
Does the visa exemption apply to multiple visits within 30 days?
Yes. Citizens of visa-free countries can re-enter Vietnam multiple times, as the previous 30-day restriction has been removed.
Can I work in Vietnam under visa exemption?
No. Visa exemption only allows short-term travel, tourism, or business meetings. Working in Vietnam requires a valid work visa or permit.
Conclusion
The Vietnam visa exemption policy provides a simple and convenient way for eligible travelers to explore the country without dealing with visa procedures. Citizens from 38 visa-free countries can enjoy short stays ranging from 14 to 90 days, depending on their nationality.
Before traveling, verify your eligibility and ensure your passport meets all entry requirements. For extended stays, the Vietnam eVisa is a flexible and efficient alternative.
>>> See our full Vietnam visa guide here.
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