Comprehensive Guide to Vietnam Visa Exemption 2023: All You Need to Know
Are you intending to travel to Vietnam soon? If so, it’s crucial to be aware of the visa requirements for your trip. However, it’s worth noting that there are specific countries whose citizens do not require a visa to enter Vietnam. This policy is referred to as the Vietnam Visa Exemption and can offer significant time and cost savings. In this piece, we will cover all the essential details about Vietnam Visa Exemption, encompassing the list of exempted countries, associated conditions, and extension possibilities.
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What is Vietnam Visa Exemption?
The Vietnam Visa Exemption, also referred to as Vietnam visa waiver or Vietnam visa-free policy, enables citizens of specific countries to enter Vietnam and remain for a designated duration without the need to obtain a visa. Consequently, these individuals are not required to undergo the standard visa application process and can instead present their passport at the immigration checkpoint upon arrival. The implementation of this policy by the Vietnamese government serves to bolster tourism, streamline business engagements with other nations, and foster stronger diplomatic ties 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 length of visa exemption varies based on the traveler’s nationality, typically spanning from 14 to 45 days. For instance, individuals from Brunei, Myanmar, and Thailand are permitted to remain in Vietnam for up to 14 days without a visa, while citizens of Belarus can stay for up to 15 days. Similarly, nationals of Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, Norway, Russia, South Korea, Spain, Sweden, and the United Kingdom are allowed a 15-day stay; however, this provision is applicable only until June 30, 2021. Subsequently, they will be required to obtain a visa for entry into Vietnam.
Other Vietnam Visa Exemption Cases
Apart from the aforementioned countries, there are specific instances where individuals may be excused from the requirement of obtaining a visa to enter Vietnam. These exemptions include:
- APEC Business Travel Card holders: Individuals possessing an APEC Business Travel Card (ABTC) with the “VNM” code on the back are permitted to enter Vietnam for business purposes for a duration of up to 90 days.
- Diplomatic and official passport holders: Individuals holding diplomatic or official passports from certain countries such as China, Cuba, India, North Korea, and Mongolia, are not obligated to obtain a visa for stays lasting up to 90 days.
- Vietnamese overseas: Individuals who possess foreign passports but hold Vietnamese nationality can enter Vietnam without a visa for a period of up to 90 days.
- Children under 14 years old: Children below 14 years of age who share a passport with their parent or guardian are exempt from the visa requirement for stays of up to 90 days.
Conditions for Making Vietnam Visa Exemption
Apart from the countries mentioned earlier, there are specific instances where individuals may not require a visa to enter Vietnam. These instances include:
- APEC Business Travel Card holders: Individuals with an APEC Business Travel Card (ABTC) bearing the “VNM” code on the back can enter Vietnam for business purposes for a duration of up to 90 days.
- Diplomatic and official passport holders: Holders of diplomatic or official passports from certain countries such as China, Cuba, India, North Korea, and Mongolia, are exempt from requiring a visa for stays lasting up to 90 days.
- Vietnamese overseas: Individuals possessing foreign passports but holding Vietnamese nationality can enter Vietnam without a visa for a period of up to 90 days.
- Children under 14 years old: Children below 14 years of age who share a passport with their parent or guardian do not need a visa for stays of up to 90 days.
Vietnam Visa Exemption Extension
Certainly. If individuals intend to prolong their stay in Vietnam beyond the prescribed duration permitted by the visa exemption policy, they have the option to request an extension. It’s important to note that this extension can only be sought once, and the length of the extended period is contingent upon the traveler’s nationality. For instance, citizens of Brunei, Myanmar, and Thailand are eligible to extend their stay for a maximum of 30 days, whereas citizens of Belarus can extend for up to 15 days. The extension procedure must be completed at the Immigration Department in Vietnam and necessitates the payment of 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 summary, the Vietnam Visa Exemption policy offers a convenient opportunity for citizens of specific countries intending to travel to Vietnam for tourism or business. This policy not only results in time and cost savings but also contributes to the promotion of tourism and the enhancement of diplomatic ties between Vietnam and its partner nations. Nonetheless, it is crucial to be mindful of the terms and constraints associated with this policy to prevent any issues during your visit. We trust that this article has furnished you with comprehensive insights into Vietnam’s Visa Exemption policy. Wishing you pleasant and successful travels!
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