vietnam 5-year visa exemption certificate 2026 - full eligibility, process & requirements

If you are of Vietnamese origin living abroad or a foreign family member of a Vietnamese citizen, the Vietnam 5-year visa exemption certificate is the most convenient travel option. This special visa category allows multiple entries into Vietnam over a 5-year period without the need to reapply each time.

This comprehensive guide explains everything you need to know — from eligibility, required documents, and application procedures to benefits and important tips for 2026.

What Is a Vietnam 5-Year Visa Exemption Certificate?

The Vietnam 5-year visa exemption certificate (also known as a “long-term visa exemption”) is a travel document issued by Vietnamese authorities to overseas Vietnamese and their foreign spouses or children.

It allows multiple entries to Vietnam within five years and each stay can last up to 180 days per visit. The visa exemption is typically valid for five years from the date of issue or up to six months before the passport expiry — whichever comes first.

Why Choose a Vietnam 5-Year Visa?

Applying for a visa before every trip can be time-consuming and costly. The 5-year visa exemption simplifies frequent travel for:

• Overseas Vietnamese returning to visit family.

• Foreign spouses or children of Vietnamese citizens.

• Business professionals maintaining connections in Vietnam.

With this visa, you enjoy:

• Unlimited entries to Vietnam during the 5-year validity.

• Stay up to 180 days per entry.

• Easy renewal without full reapplication.

• Reduced travel costs compared to multiple short-term visas.

Eligibility Criteria for Vietnam 5-Year Visa Exemption

Eligible Categories

Applicants eligible for a 5-year Vietnam visa exemption include:

• Citizens of Vietnam residing abroad.

• Individuals of Vietnamese origin (children or grandchildren).

• Foreigners who are spouses, children, or parents of Vietnamese citizens or people of Vietnamese origin.

Key Validity Requirements

• The applicant’s passport must be valid for at least one year from the date of entry.

• Applicants must provide documents proving Vietnamese origin or family relationship.

Types of Vietnam Visa Exemption Certificates

Stamped Certificate

This type is affixed directly to the applicant’s passport. It is commonly issued to Vietnamese citizens or foreigners residing abroad who have valid passports recognized by Vietnam.

Detached Certificate

Issued to individuals who hold foreign passports from countries without diplomatic ties with Vietnam, or those living abroad under permanent residence status. The certificate is a separate document and is carried alongside the passport.

Required Documents for 5-Year Vietnam Visa Exemption

For Vietnamese Citizens Living Abroad

Applicants must prepare:

1. Visa exemption application form (accurately completed).

2. Two passport-sized photographs (taken recently with a white background, no headgear or tinted glasses).

3. Passport valid for at least one year and with blank pages for stamping.

4. Supporting documents proving Vietnamese origin or status, such as:

   • Vietnamese birth certificate or ID card.

   • Vietnamese passport (valid or expired).

   • Certificate of Vietnamese citizenship or its loss.

   • Family register book or guarantee from Vietnamese authorities.

   • Documents from foreign authorities confirming Vietnamese ancestry.

For Foreign Passport Holders

Foreign spouses, children, or parents of Vietnamese citizens must submit:

1. Visa exemption application form.

2. Two recent passport photos.

3. Valid passport (minimum 1-year validity).

4. Proof of relationship, such as:

   • Marriage certificate.

   • Birth certificate (for children).

   • Adoption decision or legal guardianship documents.

   • Any other document recognized under Vietnamese law.

Step-by-Step Process to Apply for a 5-Year Vietnam Visa Exemption

1. Prepare all required documents as per your category (Vietnamese origin or foreign family member).

2. Submit your application:

   • If you are living abroad, submit at the Vietnamese Embassy or Consulate in your country.

   • If you are already in Vietnam, apply through the Vietnam Immigration Department.

3. Pay the application fee (varies by location and processing time).

4. Wait for processing, typically within 5–7 working days.

5. Receive your 5-year visa exemption certificate along with your passport.

Processing Time & Validity Details

• Processing time: Usually 5–7 working days (may vary depending on the embassy).

• Validity period: 5 years from the issue date or up to 6 months before passport expiry.

• Duration of stay: Up to 180 days per entry. If you wish to stay longer, you can apply for an extension at the local immigration office in Vietnam.

Benefits of Holding a 5-Year Visa Exemption Certificate

• Simplifies frequent travel to Vietnam without repeated visa applications.

• Encourages stronger family and cultural ties for overseas Vietnamese.

• Saves both time and money on repeated visa fees.

• Ensures legal, long-term stay for foreign family members of Vietnamese citizens.

Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Rejection

• Submitting incomplete or incorrect documents. Always verify all details before submission.

• Expired passport. Ensure at least one year of validity remains.

• Illegible relationship documents. Use officially translated or notarized versions.

• Incorrect photo specifications. Follow embassy photo guidelines strictly.

Why Apply Through Our Trusted Vietnam Visa Service

Applying for a 5-year visa exemption independently can be confusing, especially for first-time applicants. Errors in paperwork or missing details can delay or reject your application.

With our professional Vietnam visa experts, you get:

• Personalized guidance for your category.

• Hassle-free documentation and verification.

• Fast and secure processing with updates.

• Guaranteed compliance with Vietnam’s 2026 visa regulations.

Apply now for your Vietnam 5-year visa exemption certificate with us and enjoy stress-free travel between Vietnam and your home country.

Conclusion

The Vietnam 5-year visa exemption certificate offers a long-term, convenient solution for overseas Vietnamese and their families. By understanding the eligibility, documentation, and process clearly, you can ensure smooth approval and unrestricted travel for the next five years.

If you’re planning to visit Vietnam frequently in 2026 and beyond, apply for your Vietnam 5-year visa exemption today and make every trip seamless and worry-free.