When are foreigners exempted from visas in Vietnam? | iGuide

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In which cases are foreigners exempted from visas in Vietnam?

This article explores the circumstances under which foreigners may be exempted from a visa when entering Vietnam. Updated with the latest regulations, it provides an overview of visa-exempt countries, maximum length of stay, and specific conditions that must be met. It is a useful resource for international visitors and expatriates, helping them better understand Vietnam’s entry policies and plan their trip smoothly.

Article 12 of the Law on Entry, Exit, Transit and Residence of Foreigners in Vietnam 2014, supplemented by Clause 7, Article 1 of the Law on Entry, Exit, Transit and Residence of Foreigners in Vietnam, amended in 2019, stipulates cases of visa exemption in Vietnam for foreigners, including:

(1) According to international treaties of which Vietnam is a member.

(2) Use permanent residence cards and temporary residence cards according to the provisions of the Law on Entry, Exit, Transit and Residence of Foreigners in Vietnam 2014.

(3) Entering border economic zones and special administrative-economic units.

- Entering coastal economic zones decided by the Government when meeting all the following conditions: having an international airport; having a separate space; having a defined geographical boundary, separate from the mainland; in accordance with socio-economic development policies and not harming national defense, security, order and social safety of Vietnam.

(4) According to the provisions of Article 13 of the Law on Entry, Exit, Transit and Residence of Foreigners in Vietnam 2014.

(5) Vietnamese people residing abroad with passports or valid international travel documents issued by competent foreign authorities and foreigners who are their spouses or children; foreigners who are spouses or children of Vietnamese citizens are exempt from visas according to Government regulations.