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

Vietnam’s charm lies in its breathtaking landscapes, vibrant culture, and welcoming people. Whether you plan to visit Hanoi’s historic Old Quarter, explore the rice terraces of Sapa, or relax along the beaches of Da Nang, you’ll need to understand Vietnam’s visa policies before traveling.

In 2026, Vietnam continues to offer visa exemption to citizens of selected countries and special categories such as overseas Vietnamese and their families. This guide explains everything — from eligibility and documentation to the 5-year visa exemption certificate and step-by-step application process.

Understanding Vietnam Visa Exemption

A Vietnam visa exemption allows eligible travelers to enter Vietnam without applying for a visa beforehand. Depending on your nationality, you can stay from 14 to 90 days visa-free. Some travelers may also qualify for a five-year visa exemption certificate, which allows multiple entries during its validity.

Who Can Enjoy Vietnam Visa-Free Entry?

Visa-Free Countries and Duration of Stay

As of 2026, Vietnam grants visa-free entry to citizens from 25 countries. The duration of stay differs by nationality:

• 90 Days (Tourism Only)

  • Chile

  • Panama

• 30 Days

  • Cambodia

  • Indonesia

  • Kyrgyzstan

  • Laos

  • Malaysia

  • Singapore

  • Thailand

• 21 Days

  • Philippines

• 15 Days

  • Belarus

  • Denmark

  • Finland

  • France

  • Germany

  • Italy

  • Japan

  • Norway

  • Russia

  • South Korea

  • Spain

  • Sweden

  • United Kingdom

• 14 Days

  • Brunei

  • Myanmar

Additionally, visitors entering government-designated coastal economic zones that have international airports and align with Vietnam’s development policies may also receive 30-day visa exemptions under special arrangements.

To qualify for a visa exemption, travelers must:

• Hold a passport valid for at least 6 months beyond their arrival date.

• Have at least two blank pages in the passport.

5-Year Visa Exemption Certificate for Overseas Vietnamese and Family

Vietnam offers a 5-year visa exemption certificate (also known as a “Visa Exemption Certificate” or Mien Thi Thuc) for:

• Overseas Vietnamese citizens holding foreign passports.

• Spouses, children, and parents of Vietnamese citizens or overseas Vietnamese.

This certificate allows multiple entries into Vietnam, with each stay lasting up to 180 days per visit.

Required Documents for Vietnam Visa Exemption

For Overseas Vietnamese Citizens

Applicants must provide:

• A completed visa exemption application form.

• Two recent passport-sized photos (white background).

• A passport valid for at least one year from the date of application.

• One or more documents proving Vietnamese origin, such as:

  • Vietnamese passport or ID card

  • Family register book

  • Birth certificate

  • Certificate of Vietnamese citizenship restoration or loss

  • Decision confirming Vietnamese origin issued by a foreign authority

For Foreign Spouses and Children of Vietnamese Citizens

Applicants need:

• A completed application form.

• Two recent 2x2 inch color photos (white background, neutral expression).

• A passport valid for at least six months.

• Proof of relationship, such as:

  • Marriage certificate (for spouses)

  • Birth certificate (for children)

  • Adoption papers or family relationship documents

Step-by-Step Process to Apply for Vietnam Visa Exemption 2026

Step 1: Prepare All Required Documents

Ensure that all forms are correctly filled out and that your photos and supporting documents meet the requirements.

Step 2: Submit the Application

Submit your completed application to the Vietnamese Embassy or Consulate in your country of residence. If you are in Vietnam, you may also apply at the Vietnam Immigration Department.

Step 3: Pay the Applicable Fee

Visa exemption certificate fees are regulated by the Vietnamese government and may vary depending on the application method and location. Payment is accepted via bank draft or credit card (Visa/MasterCard).

Step 4: Receive Your Visa Exemption Certificate

Processing usually takes 5 to 7 working days. Approved applicants will receive a certificate either:

• Stamped directly in the passport, or

• Issued as a separate certificate, depending on their status.

Reissuing a Lost or Expired Visa Exemption Certificate

If your visa exemption certificate is lost or expired, you can apply for a reissue by submitting:

• A new application form.

• Two passport-sized photos.

• A copy of your old or expired certificate (if available).

• Your valid passport and supporting documents.

Processing takes around one week, similar to the original application.

Entry Requirements for Vietnam in 2026

To enter Vietnam visa-free or with a visa exemption certificate, travelers must:

• Hold a valid passport (minimum 6 months validity).

• Carry travel insurance covering potential medical treatment.

• Show proof of return or onward travel (recommended).

• Ensure entry through an approved international airport, seaport, or land border.

Why You Should Use a Professional Visa Service

Applying for a Vietnam visa exemption or eVisa can be confusing due to documentation errors or changing rules. Using a professional visa service ensures:

• Expert review of documents before submission.

• Correct selection of visa category.

• Timely updates and guaranteed follow-up on your application.

• Fast processing — get your Vietnam eVisa or exemption certificate within 48 hours.

Common Mistakes to Avoid During the Application Process

• Submitting expired passports or incomplete documentation.

• Using photos with incorrect size or background color.

• Providing inaccurate relationship or citizenship documents.

• Ignoring the specific duration allowed for visa-free stays.

Apply for Your Vietnam eVisa Easily

If your nationality is not eligible for visa exemption, you can still apply for a Vietnam eVisa, valid for up to 90 days with single or multiple entries. The eVisa system is fully online, saving you time and effort.

Apply for your Vietnam eVisa today and get approval within 48 hours — a quick, safe, and convenient way to start your journey to Vietnam in 2026.