Vietnam visa exemption expansion

Key Updates to Vietnam’s Visa Exemption in 2026

• Number of countries covered: 38 nations now enjoy visa-free entry.

• Length of stay: Ranges from 14 days to 45 days, depending on the traveler’s nationality.

• Effective date: Policy took effect starting January 2026.

• Purpose: Encourage tourism, business, and cultural exchange by reducing entry barriers.

Countries Newly Added to Visa-Free List

While Vietnam already exempted ASEAN members and a few select countries, the 2026 expansion added more from Europe, Asia, and Oceania. Examples include:

• Europe: Scandinavian countries, several EU members.

• Asia-Pacific: Australia, New Zealand, and additional East Asian nations.

• Other regions: Some Latin American countries were also included.

Conditions & Notes

• Passport validity: Must be valid for at least 6 months upon entry.

• Return/onward ticket: Often required to prove departure plans.

• Visa exemption vs. e-Visa: Exemption means no application needed; travelers simply receive a stamp at entry. In parallel, Vietnam’s e-Visa system has been expanded to cover all countries and territories, valid up to 90 days with single or multiple entries

Comparison: Visa Exemption vs. e-Visa

⚠️ Risks & Considerations

• Overstaying penalties: Fines or bans apply if travelers exceed visa-free limits.

• Frequent travelers: Those needing longer stays should consider the 90-day e-Visa option.

• Policy changes: Vietnam’s visa rules are subject to updates; travelers should always check official government announcements before departure.