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Vietnam Visa Exemption – Vietnam Grants 45-Day Visa-Free Entry to 12 More Countries
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What Are Vietnam Visa Exemptions?
Vietnam visa exemptions represent a significant shift in the country’s approach to international tourism, allowing citizens from specific countries to enter Vietnam without obtaining a traditional visa. This policy eliminates the time-consuming visa application process, associated fees, and documentation requirements that previously deterred many potential visitors.
Under the current Vietnam visa exemptions framework, eligible travelers can enter Vietnam for tourism, business meetings, family visits, or transit purposes without prior visa approval. The exemption periods vary by nationality, typically ranging from 14 to 45 days, with some countries enjoying extended stays of up to 90 days.
For travelers heading to Hanoi, vietnam visa-free entry means you can spontaneously book that weekend getaway to explore the Old Quarter’s narrow streets, sample authentic pho at local eateries, or take day trips to Ha Long Bay without the bureaucratic hurdles of traditional visa applications.
Benefits of Vietnam Visa-Free Entry For Travellers
The advantages of vietnam visa-free entry extend far beyond simple convenience, creating a ripple effect of benefits that enhance every aspect of your Vietnam travel experience. Let’s explore how these exemptions transform your journey from planning to departure.
Significant Cost Savings When Traveling To Vietnam
Save $25-$135 per person on visa fees, plus additional costs for document preparation, photos, and processing services.
Spontaneous Travel Freedom
Book last-minute flights to take advantage of deals or seasonal opportunities. No more waiting 3-5 business days for visa processing or missing out on limited-time travel promotions.
Reduced Visa Documentation Hassle
Eliminate the need for invitation letters, hotel bookings proof, financial statements, and employment certificates typically required for visa applications.
Enhanced Business Opportunities
Attend urgent business meetings, conferences, or trade shows without visa delays. Many international companies now choose Vietnam for regional meetings due to this accessibility.
The psychological benefits shouldn’t be underestimated either. Knowing you can travel to Vietnam without visa complications reduces pre-trip stress and allows you to focus on planning memorable experiences. This peace of mind is particularly valuable for first-time visitors to Southeast Asia who might feel overwhelmed by traditional visa requirements.
The 12 Newly Added Visa-Free Countries in 2025
Vietnam has officially announced Resolution No. 229/NQ-CP, granting 45-day visa-free entry to citizens from 12 additional European countries. This groundbreaking policy aims to boost tourism and strengthen diplomatic relations.
Visitors from these countries may stay in Vietnam for up to 45 days from the date of entry for tourism purpose, regardless of passport type, provided they meet all entry conditions stipulated by Vietnamese law.
1.The Kingdom of Belgium
2. The Republic of Bulgaria
3. The Republic of Croatia
4. The Czech Republic
5. Hungary
6. The Grand Duchy of Luxembourg
7. The Kingdom of the Netherlands
8. The Republic of Poland
9. Romania
10. The Slovak Republic
11. The Republic of Slovenia
12. The Swiss Confederation
Total Vietnam Visa-Free Countries List (Updated 2025)
As of August 15, 2025, Vietnam offers visa-free entry to citizens of 39 countries with varying durations based on nationality. This extensive list makes Vietnam increasingly accessible to international travelers seeking authentic cultural experiences and stunning natural beauty.
Vietnam Visa Exemption Requirements
While Vietnam visa exemptions significantly simplify entry procedures, travelers must still meet specific requirements to ensure smooth immigration processing. Understanding these requirements beforehand prevents potential complications at Noi Bai International Airport or other entry points.
Essential Documentation Requirements
Primary Requirement: Valid passport with minimum 6 months remaining validity from your planned departure date from Vietnam.
Your passport serves as the cornerstone of vietnam visa-free entry eligibility. Immigration officers strictly enforce the six-month validity rule, and insufficient remaining validity will result in entry denial regardless of your nationality’s exemption status. We recommend having at least 8 months of passport validity to account for potential travel extensions or unexpected delays.
Comprehensive Requirements Checklist:
Documentation Standards:
- Passport Condition: Clean, undamaged, with clear biometric information
- Blank Pages: Minimum 2 consecutive blank pages for entry/exit stamps
- Previous Stamps: No conflicting visa stamps or entry bans
- Digital Copy: Recommended backup stored securely online
Travel Documentation:
- Return Ticket: Confirmed onward/return travel within exemption period
- Accommodation Proof: Hotel reservations or invitation letter.
- Travel Insurance: While not mandatory, strongly recommended
Stay Duration and Extensions
Exemption periods are strictly enforced, with overstays resulting in fines, deportation, and potential future entry bans. The maximum stay varies by nationality, and extensions are generally not available for visa-exempt travelers. If you require longer stays, you must exit Vietnam and re-enter after the specified waiting period (typically 30 days).
How to Check Your Vietnam Visa-Free Eligibility
Confirming your vietnam visa-free entry eligibility requires careful verification through official channels, as visa policies evolve regularly and unofficial sources may contain outdated information. This systematic approach ensures you have accurate, current information for your travel planning.
Official Verification Channels:
- Vietnam Immigration Department Website: Most authoritative source for current policies
- Vietnamese Embassy/Consulate: Direct contact with diplomatic missions
- Airline Customer Service: Airlines maintain updated visa requirement databases
- Professional Travel Agencies: Licensed agents with current policy knowledge such as Hanoi Local Tour
Top Attractions to Visit in Vietnam for Visa-Free Travelers
With your vietnam visa-free entry confirmed, it’s time to explore the incredible experiences awaiting you in Vietnam. From Hanoi’s historic charm to the country’s natural wonders, visa-exempt travelers can maximize their stay with carefully planned itineraries that showcase Vietnam’s diverse attractions.
Hanoi – The Cultural Heart of Vietnam
As Vietnam’s capital and your likely entry point, Hanoi deserves at least 4-5 days of your visa-exempt stay. The city masterfully blends ancient traditions with modern dynamism, offering experiences that capture Vietnam’s essence in every street corner, temple, and market stall.
Hanoi Old Quarter (Hoan Kiem District)
The Old Quarter’s 36 ancient streets represent Hanoi’s living museum, where each street traditionally specialized in specific crafts or trades. Spend your mornings exploring Hang Gai (silk street), Hang Bac (silver street), and Hang Ma (paper goods), then enjoy traditional pho at street-side stalls that have served locals for generations.
Insider Tip: Visit early morning (6-8 AM) to witness locals practicing tai chi around Hoan Kiem Lake and experience authentic street life before tourist crowds arrive.
Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum Complex
This significant historical site houses the preserved body of Vietnam’s revolutionary leader. The complex includes the Presidential Palace, One Pillar Pagoda, and Ho Chi Minh Museum, providing comprehensive insights into modern Vietnamese history.
With extended stay periods, you can visit during less crowded weekdays and combine this with nearby Temple of Literature for a full day of historical exploration.
Thang Long Water Puppet Theater
This uniquely Vietnamese art form dates back 1,000 years and offers entertaining stories about rural life, historical legends, and folklore. Thang Long Water Puppet Theater near Hoan Kiem Lake hosts multiple daily performances.
North Vietnam Tours From Hanoi
Ha Long Bay
UNESCO World Heritage site featuring 1,600 limestone islands. Day trips include cruise dining, cave exploration, and kayaking. Overnight cruises offer more comprehensive experiences.
Sapa
Vietnam’s mountain retreat featuring spectacular rice terraces, ethnic minority villages, and cooler climate perfect for trekking adventures.
Stunning mountainous landscapes with ethnic minority villages. Best visited during rice planting (May-June) or harvest seasons (September-October).
Ninh Binh
“Ha Long Bay on land” featuring limestone karsts, ancient temples, and boat tours through scenic waterways. Ninh Binh is perfect for natural and photography enthusiasts.
Southern Vietnam Tours Highlights
Ho Chi Minh City
Many visa-free travelers choose to explore both northern and southern Vietnam during their extended stays. Ho Chi Minh City offers contrasting experiences to Hanoi’s traditional atmosphere.
Ho Chi Minh City showcases Vietnam’s economic dynamism with skyscrapers, modern shopping centers, and vibrant nightlife. The contrast with Hanoi’s historical ambiance provides comprehensive Vietnam experience.
- Ben Thanh Market: Historic market and street food paradise
- War Remnants Museum: Powerful historical insights
- Notre-Dame Cathedral: Iconic French colonial landmark
- District 1: Shopping, dining, and nightlife
Cu Chi Tunnels – A Journey into History
An essential stop for history enthusiasts, the Cu Chi Tunnels offer a glimpse into the underground network used during the Vietnam War. Visitors can crawl through preserved sections of the tunnels and learn about the resilience and ingenuity of Vietnamese fighters.
Mekong Delta
Mekong Delta tour, floating market Vietnam, Southern Vietnam river cruise
Known as Vietnam’s “rice bowl,” the Mekong Delta is a maze of waterways, orchards, and traditional villages. Highlights include:
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Cai Rang Floating Market – experience lively boat-to-boat trading.
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Vinh Trang Pagoda – an impressive Buddhist temple blending Vietnamese, Chinese, and Khmer architecture.
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Fruit Orchards & Coconut Candy Workshops – taste the region’s natural sweetness.
Phu Quoc Island Paradise
The 2025 tourism star with 320,888 international tourists in just two months, recognized as one of Southeast Asia’s fastest-growing destinations.
- Bai Sao Beach: One of the world’s most beautiful beaches
- Cable Car: World’s longest sea-crossing cable car
- Night Markets: Fresh seafood and local specialties
- Pepper Farms: Famous Phu Quoc black pepper tours
- Sun World Hon Thom: Nature park and water sports
Special Visa Policy: Phu Quoc offers 30-day visa-free entry for ALL nationalities via direct flights.
Central Vietnam Cultural Journey
Hue Imperial Heritage
Vietnam’s former imperial capital hosts the National Tourism Year 2025 with over 160 events, welcoming 666,000 international visitors in Q1 alone.
- Imperial City: UNESCO World Heritage royal complex
- Royal Tombs: Elaborate mausoleums of Nguyen emperors
- Perfume River: Romantic dragon boat cruises
- Thien Mu Pagoda: Seven-story octagonal tower
- Royal Cuisine: Sophisticated imperial cooking traditions
2025 Special: National Tourism Year features exclusive cultural performances and festivals throughout the year.
Hoi An Ancient Trading Port
The ancient city of Hoi An and imperial Hue represent Vietnam’s cultural zenith, easily accessible with your visa-free status allowing flexible travel timing.
This perfectly preserved ancient trading port enchants visitors with lantern-lit streets, traditional architecture, and world-class tailoring services.
- Ancient Town: 800+ historic buildings under UNESCO protection
- Japanese Covered Bridge: Iconic 400-year-old landmark
- Lantern Festival: Monthly full moon celebrations
- An Bang Beach: Pristine coastline 5km away
- Cooking Classes: Learn authentic Vietnamese cuisine
Da Nang – Modern Beach City
Featured by Condé Nast Traveller as a must-visit destination, Da Nang ranks second among Asia’s 11 best places, with 2.53 million guests in Q1 2025.
- Dragon Bridge: Fire-breathing architectural marvel
- My Khe Beach: One of the world’s most beautiful beaches
- Ba Na Hills: Golden Bridge and French Village
- Marble Mountains: Sacred caves and pagodas
Practical Vietnam Travel Tips for Visa-Free Visitors
Maximizing your vietnam visa-free entry experience requires strategic planning and cultural awareness. These practical insights, developed through years of guiding international visitors, will help you navigate Vietnam confidently while making the most of your exemption period.
Currency and Financial Planning
Vietnam’s official currency is the Vietnamese Dong (VND), with current exchange rates approximately 24,000-25,000 VND per USD. While major hotels and tourist areas in Hanoi accept credit cards, cash remains king for street food, local markets, and transportation.
Transportation in Hanoi and Beyond
Vietnam’s transportation infrastructure has improved dramatically, making it easier for visa-free visitors to explore multiple destinations during their stay. Understanding your options helps maximize both time and budget efficiency.
- Grab App: Southeast Asia’s equivalent to Uber, offering cars, bikes, and food delivery. Transparent pricing, GPS tracking, and English-language interface make it ideal for international visitors.
- Motorbike: Most authentic local transport for short distances. Always negotiate prices beforehand and wear provided helmets. Great for navigating Hanoi’s narrow Old Quarter streets
- Vietnam Railways: Comfortable overnight trains connect Hanoi to major destinations. Book soft sleeper berths in advance for optimal comfort during longer journeys.
- Domestic Flights: Vietnam Airlines, VietJet, and Bamboo Airways offer frequent, affordable domestic flights. Perfect for maximizing sightseeing during shorter visa-free stays.
With comprehensive knowledge of Vietnam visa exemptions, you’re perfectly prepared to embark on your Vietnamese adventure. From Hanoi’s ancient streets to Ha Long Bay’s emerald waters, your visa-free journey awaits!
Don’t let this opportunity pass by. Vietnam’s rich culture, incredible cuisine, and warm hospitality are calling your name. Whether you’re drawn to Hanoi’s historical charm, Ho Chi Minh City’s modern energy, or the country’s stunning natural landscapes, your vietnam visa-free entry makes it all accessible.
Need more inspiration? Visit our official website Hanoi Local Tour or contact with our travel expert now to have an unforgettable Vietnam tour!