Are you planning to visit Vietnam in the near future? If so, it’s important to know about the visa requirements for your trip. However, did you know that there are certain countries whose citizens are exempt from needing a visa to enter Vietnam? This is known as the Vietnam Visa Exemption policy and it can save you both time and money. In this article, we will discuss everything you need to know about Vietnam Visa Exemption, including the list of exempted countries, conditions, and extension options.
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What is Vietnam Visa Exemption?
Vietnam Visa Exemption, also known as Vietnam visa waiver or Vietnam visa free, is a policy that allows citizens of certain countries to enter Vietnam and stay for a specified period of time without having to apply for a visa. This means that they do not have to go through the usual visa application process and can simply present their passport at the immigration checkpoint upon arrival. This policy was implemented by the Vietnamese government to promote tourism and facilitate business activities with other countries. It also aims to strengthen diplomatic relations between Vietnam and its partner countries.
Vietnam Visa Exemption Countries Duration
As of 2021, there are currently 24 countries whose citizens are eligible for Vietnam Visa Exemption. These countries include:
- Brunei
- Cambodia
- Chile
- Denmark
- Finland
- France
- Germany
- Indonesia
- Italy
- Japan
- Kyrgyzstan
- Laos
- Malaysia
- Myanmar
- Norway
- Philippines
- Russia
- Singapore
- South Korea
- Spain
- Sweden
- Thailand
- United Kingdom
- Belarus
The duration of the visa exemption varies depending on the nationality of the traveler, but it usually ranges from 14 to 45 days. For example, citizens of Brunei, Myanmar, and Thailand can stay in Vietnam for up to 14 days without a visa, while citizens of Belarus can stay for up to 15 days. Citizens of Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, Norway, Russia, South Korea, Spain, Sweden, and the United Kingdom can stay for up to 15 days as well, but this policy is only valid until June 30, 2021. After that, they will need to apply for a visa to enter Vietnam.
Other Vietnam Visa Exemption Cases
Aside from the countries listed above, there are also certain cases where individuals may be exempt from needing a visa to enter Vietnam. These include:
- APEC Business Travel Card holders: Holders of an APEC Business Travel Card (ABTC) with the “VNM” code on the back can enter Vietnam for business purposes for up to 90 days.
- Diplomatic and official passport holders: Holders of diplomatic or official passports from certain countries, including China, Cuba, India, North Korea, and Mongolia, are exempt from needing a visa for stays of up to 90 days.
- Vietnamese overseas: Individuals who hold foreign passports but have Vietnamese nationality can enter Vietnam without a visa for up to 90 days.
- Children under 14 years old: Children under 14 years old who share a passport with their parent or guardian are exempt from needing a visa for stays of up to 90 days.
Conditions for Making Vietnam Visa Exemption
While Vietnam Visa Exemption may seem like a convenient option for travelers, there are certain conditions that must be met in order to be eligible for this policy. These conditions include:
- The purpose of the visit must be tourism or business activities.
- The stay must not exceed the designated duration for each country.
- The passport must be valid for at least 6 months from the date of entry.
- The traveler must have a return or onward ticket.
- The traveler must not have been denied entry or deported from Vietnam in the past.
- The traveler must not have any criminal records or pose a threat to national security.
If any of these conditions are not met, the traveler will need to apply for a visa before entering Vietnam.
Vietnam Visa Exemption Extension
For those who wish to stay in Vietnam longer than the designated duration under the visa exemption policy, there is an option to extend the stay. However, this can only be done once and the extension period varies depending on the nationality of the traveler. For example, citizens of Brunei, Myanmar, and Thailand can extend their stay for up to 30 days, while citizens of Belarus can extend for up to 15 days. The extension process can be done at the Immigration Department in Vietnam and requires a fee.
Frequently Asked Questions about Vietnam Visa Exemption
- Can I enter Vietnam multiple times with the visa exemption policy?
No, the visa exemption policy only allows for a single entry into Vietnam. If you plan to leave and re-enter Vietnam, you will need to apply for a visa.
- Can I work in Vietnam with the visa exemption policy?
No, the visa exemption policy only allows for tourism and business activities. If you plan to work in Vietnam, you will need to apply for a work permit and visa.
- Can I extend my stay more than once with the visa exemption policy?
No, the visa exemption policy only allows for one extension. After that, you will need to apply for a visa.
- Can I travel to other countries after entering Vietnam with the visa exemption policy?
Yes, as long as you meet the entry requirements for the other countries you plan to visit.
- Can I apply for a visa on arrival with the visa exemption policy?
No, the visa exemption policy only applies to entering Vietnam without a visa. If you plan to apply for a visa on arrival, you will need to do so before your trip.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Vietnam Visa Exemption is a convenient policy for citizens of certain countries who wish to visit Vietnam for tourism or business purposes. It not only saves time and money, but it also promotes tourism and strengthens diplomatic relations between Vietnam and its partner countries. However, it’s important to note the conditions and limitations of this policy in order to avoid any complications during your trip. We hope this article has provided you with all the information you need to know about Vietnam Visa Exemption. Happy travels!