Vietnam’s 2025 visa policy is among the most accessible in Southeast Asia, making travel to this dynamic country easier for both tourists and business visitors. Whether you are planning a short holiday, business trip, or an extended stay, understanding the latest visa requirements, application processes, and exemptions is essential for a smooth entry into Vietnam.

Vietnam’s visa policy now aligns with many international standards, drawing comparisons to the Schengen area’s streamlined approach. The government has expanded its visa-waiver program, allowing citizens of select countries to enter Vietnam without a visa for a specified period. This move simplifies travel for eligible passport holders and supports Vietnam’s growing status as a global destination.

Vietnam Visa Exemption Policy 2025

Important Modification date of these updates: August 12, 2025.

Starting August 15, 2025, Vietnam has introduced new visa exemption policies as part of its tourism promotion and socio-economic development program, valid until August 14, 2028. Key highlights include:

• Twelve additional European countries—Belgium, Bulgaria, Croatia, Czech Republic, Hungary, Luxembourg, Netherlands, Poland, Romania, Slovakia, Slovenia, and Switzerland—are now granted visa exemptions for stays up to 45 days regardless of passport type or purpose of visit. This extends and replaces previous exemptions for some of these countries.

• A new limited-term visa waiver scheme, effective from August 15, 2025, offers multiple-entry visa waiver cards valid up to five years for eligible foreign nationals who contribute significantly to Vietnam’s socio-economic development. This includes high-ranking government guests, scholars, scientists, business leaders, and prominent cultural and sports figures.

• Visa-free entry policies have also been modernized, removing the minimum interval between visa-exempt entries and expanding e-visa eligibility and entry points.

These changes aim to boost tourism, attract investment, and enhance Vietnam's global economic and cultural ties while providing flexibility and convenience for travelers.

Vietnam grants visa-free entry to nationals of 29 countries, with the length of stay determined by your nationality and travel purpose. This policy is part of Vietnam’s strategy to attract more foreign nationals, encourage tourism, and facilitate business exchanges.

Key Visa Information and Requirements

• Visa-free entry: Citizens from the United Kingdom, France, Germany, Italy, Spain, Russia, Japan, South Korea, Denmark, Sweden, Norway, and Finland can stay in Vietnam for up to 45 days without needing to apply for a visa. Other countries, such as Chile and Panama, enjoy even longer stays.

• E-visa for all: Foreigners from all countries can apply for a Vietnamese e-visa online, valid for up to 90 days with single or multiple entries. The online visa application process is fast and user-friendly, with processing times typically ranging from three to five working days.

• Consular services: Travelers who do not qualify for visa exemption or need a different type of visa (such as a student visa, business visa, or residence permit) can apply through Vietnamese consular offices or embassies. The required travel documents, such as a valid passport, completed visa application form, itinerary, and sometimes a letter from an employer or school, must be submitted.

• Visa on arrival: Available for certain nationalities arriving by air, this service requires advance online approval and is ideal for those who need to get a visa quickly.

List of Vietnam Visa-Free Countries in 2025

🇬🇧 United Kingdom – 45 days
🇫🇷 France – 45 days
🇩🇪 Germany – 45 days
🇮🇹 Italy – 45 days
🇪🇸 Spain – 45 days
🇷🇺 Russia – 45 days
🇯🇵 Japan – 45 days
🇰🇷 South Korea – 45 days
🇩🇰 Denmark – 45 days
🇸🇪 Sweden – 45 days
🇳🇴 Norway – 45 days
🇫🇮 Finland – 45 days
🇨🇭 Switzerland – 45 days (organized tours)
🇵🇱 Poland – 45 days (organized tours)
🇨🇿 Czech Republic – 45 days (organized tours)
🇧🇾 Belarus – 45 days
🇨🇱 Chile – 90 days
🇵🇦 Panama – 90 days
🇰🇿 Kazakhstan – 45 days
🇰🇬 Kyrgyzstan – 30 days
🇰🇭 Cambodia – 30 days
🇮🇩 Indonesia – 30 days
🇱🇦 Laos – 30 days
🇲🇾 Malaysia – 30 days
🇸🇬 Singapore – 30 days
🇹🇭 Thailand – 30 days
🇵🇭 Philippines – 21 days
🇧🇳 Brunei – 14 days
🇲🇲 Myanmar – 14 days

Note: British National Overseas (BNO) passport holders are not eligible for visa-free entry and must apply for a visa.

Here is the list of countries exempt from visa requirements for traveling to Vietnam starting August 15, 2025, until August 14, 2028 with the maximum allowed stay duration (in days).

🇧🇪 Belgium – 45 days
🇧🇬 Bulgaria – 45 days
🇭🇷 Croatia – 45 days
🇨🇿 Czech Republic – 45 days
🇭🇺 Hungary – 45 days
🇱🇺 Luxembourg – 45 days
🇳🇱 Netherlands – 45 days
🇵🇱 Poland – 45 days
🇷🇴 Romania – 45 days
🇸🇰 Slovakia – 45 days
🇸🇮 Slovenia – 45 days
🇨🇭 Switzerland – 45 days

Essential Keywords for Your Vietnam Visa Search

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Practical Tips for Foreign Nationals

• Check your nationality: Always confirm whether your citizenship is eligible for visa-free entry or if you need to apply for a visa before your trip.

• Prepare your travel documents: Ensure your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your intended stay and that you have all necessary travel documents, including your itinerary and any required letters from employers or schools.

• Understand the type of visa you need: Whether you’re seeking a tourist visa, student visa, business visa, or residence permit, be clear on the requirements and processing time.

• Respect your visa validity: Overstaying your visa or visa-free period can result in fines or entry bans.

• Consular and visa services: For complex cases or long-term stays, consult your nearest Vietnamese consular office or embassy for guidance on visa applications and residence permits.

Vietnam’s updated visa policy in 2025 ensures that travel to the country is more convenient for both tourists and foreign nationals. With expanded visa-waiver agreements, efficient online visa services, and clear entry requirements, Vietnam is ready to welcome visitors from around the world.

Partager

Embassy of Vietnam in the United Kingdom

• Address: 12-14 Victoria Road, London W8 5RD, United Kingdom

• Phone: +44 20 7937 1912

• Email: consular@vietnamembassy.org.uk

• Website: vietnamembassy.org.uk

Embassy of Vietnam in the United States

• Address: 1233 20th St NW, Suite 400, Washington, DC 20036, United States

• Phone: +1 202-861-0737

• Email: dcconsular@vietnamembassy.us

• Website: vietnamembassy-usa.org

Vietnam Visa Policy 2025 – Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Who needs a visa to travel to Vietnam?

Most foreign nationals need a visa unless they are from a visa-exempt country. Always check the latest visa-free list or the official government website to confirm your nationality’s requirements.

Which countries are eligible for visa-free entry to Vietnam in 2025?

Citizens of the UK 🇬🇧, France 🇫🇷, Germany 🇩🇪, Italy 🇮🇹, Spain 🇪🇸, Russia 🇷🇺, Japan 🇯🇵, South Korea 🇰🇷, Denmark 🇩🇰, Sweden 🇸🇪, Norway 🇳🇴, Finland 🇫🇮, and others can stay visa-free for up to 45 days. Some countries, like Chile 🇨🇱 and Panama 🇵🇦, enjoy up to 90 days. Always confirm the latest rules before traveling.

What is a Vietnam e-visa and who can apply?

A Vietnam e-visa is an electronic visa available to all nationalities, valid for single or multiple entries up to 90 days. Apply online via the official portal for a quick process.

How long does it take to process a Vietnam visa application?

E-visas take about 3–5 working days. Applications via embassies or consulates may take longer, depending on visa type and nationality.

What documents are required for a Vietnam visa application?

A valid passport (6+ months validity), completed application form, passport photo, travel itinerary, proof of accommodation, and specific documents for certain visa types (e.g., business letter, school acceptance).

Can I extend my visa or visa-free stay while in Vietnam?

In most cases, no. You must leave Vietnam and reapply for a new visa if you wish to stay longer.

What happens if I overstay my visa or visa-free period?

Overstaying can lead to fines, deportation, or a re-entry ban. Respect your visa’s validity.

What types of visas are available for Vietnam?

Tourist, business, student, work, residence permit, transit, and diplomatic/official visas — each with its own rules and validity.

Can I apply for a Vietnam visa online?

Yes, all foreigners can apply for an e-visa online — the fastest and easiest way for tourist or business travel.

Do I need a visa if I hold a residence permit from a Schengen country or the UAE?

No exemption — you must follow Vietnam’s visa rules for your nationality.

Is a letter of invitation required for a Vietnam visa?

Only for certain types, like business or student visas.

Where can I find official visa information and apply?

Official portal: Vietnam E-visa or contact your nearest Vietnamese embassy/consulate.

Can I use a travel document or emergency passport to enter Vietnam?

Sometimes — check with a Vietnamese consulate before traveling.

What should I do if my visa application is denied?

Reapply with corrected documents or contact the consulate for guidance.

Are there special requirements for minors or children?

Yes — they need their own passport and may require parental authorization or extra documents.