Vietnam Visa 2025: Exemptions, Types of Visas for UK and US Citizens

Vietnam’s 2025 visa policy is among the most accessible in Southeast Asia, making travel to this dynamic country easier for both tourists and business visitors. Whether you are planning a short holiday, business trip, or an extended stay, understanding the latest visa requirements, application processes, and exemptions is essential for a smooth entry into Vietnam.

Vietnam’s visa policy now aligns with many international standards, drawing comparisons to the Schengen area’s streamlined approach. The government has expanded its visa-waiver program, allowing citizens of select countries to enter Vietnam without a visa for a specified period. This move simplifies travel for eligible passport holders and supports Vietnam’s growing status as a global destination.

Vietnam Visa Exemption Policy 2025

Vietnam grants visa-free entry to nationals of 29 countries, with the length of stay determined by your nationality and travel purpose. This policy is part of Vietnam’s strategy to attract more foreign nationals, encourage tourism, and facilitate business exchanges.

Key Visa Information and Requirements

• Visa-free entry: Citizens from the United Kingdom, France, Germany, Italy, Spain, Russia, Japan, South Korea, Denmark, Sweden, Norway, and Finland can stay in Vietnam for up to 45 days without needing to apply for a visa. Other countries, such as Chile and Panama, enjoy even longer stays.

• E-visa for all: Foreigners from all countries can apply for a Vietnamese e-visa online, valid for up to 90 days with single or multiple entries. The online visa application process is fast and user-friendly, with processing times typically ranging from three to five working days.

• Consular services: Travelers who do not qualify for visa exemption or need a different type of visa (such as a student visa, business visa, or residence permit) can apply through Vietnamese consular offices or embassies. The required travel documents, such as a valid passport, completed visa application form, itinerary, and sometimes a letter from an employer or school, must be submitted.

• Visa on arrival: Available for certain nationalities arriving by air, this service requires advance online approval and is ideal for those who need to get a visa quickly.

List of Vietnam Visa-Free Countries in 2025

🇬🇧 United Kingdom – 45 days
🇫🇷 France – 45 days
🇩🇪 Germany – 45 days
🇮🇹 Italy – 45 days
🇪🇸 Spain – 45 days
🇷🇺 Russia – 45 days
🇯🇵 Japan – 45 days
🇰🇷 South Korea – 45 days
🇩🇰 Denmark – 45 days
🇸🇪 Sweden – 45 days
🇳🇴 Norway – 45 days
🇫🇮 Finland – 45 days
🇨🇭 Switzerland – 45 days (organized tours)
🇵🇱 Poland – 45 days (organized tours)
🇨🇿 Czech Republic – 45 days (organized tours)
🇧🇾 Belarus – 45 days
🇨🇱 Chile – 90 days
🇵🇦 Panama – 90 days
🇰🇿 Kazakhstan – 45 days
🇰🇬 Kyrgyzstan – 30 days
🇰🇭 Cambodia – 30 days
🇮🇩 Indonesia – 30 days
🇱🇦 Laos – 30 days
🇲🇾 Malaysia – 30 days
🇸🇬 Singapore – 30 days
🇹🇭 Thailand – 30 days
🇵🇭 Philippines – 21 days
🇧🇳 Brunei – 14 days
🇲🇲 Myanmar – 14 days

Note: British National Overseas (BNO) passport holders are not eligible for visa-free entry and must apply for a visa.

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Practical Tips for Foreign Nationals

• Check your nationality: Always confirm whether your citizenship is eligible for visa-free entry or if you need to apply for a visa before your trip.

• Prepare your travel documents: Ensure your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your intended stay and that you have all necessary travel documents, including your itinerary and any required letters from employers or schools.

• Understand the type of visa you need: Whether you’re seeking a tourist visa, student visa, business visa, or residence permit, be clear on the requirements and processing time.

• Respect your visa validity: Overstaying your visa or visa-free period can result in fines or entry bans.

• Consular and visa services: For complex cases or long-term stays, consult your nearest Vietnamese consular office or embassy for guidance on visa applications and residence permits.

Vietnam’s updated visa policy in 2025 ensures that travel to the country is more convenient for both tourists and foreign nationals. With expanded visa-waiver agreements, efficient online visa services, and clear entry requirements, Vietnam is ready to welcome visitors from around the world.

Partager

Embassy of Vietnam in the United Kingdom

• Address: 12-14 Victoria Road, London W8 5RD, United Kingdom

• Phone: +44 20 7937 1912

• Email: consular@vietnamembassy.org.uk

• Website: vietnamembassy.org.uk

Embassy of Vietnam in the United States

• Address: 1233 20th St NW, Suite 400, Washington, DC 20036, United States

• Phone: +1 202-861-0737

• Email: dcconsular@vietnamembassy.us

• Website: vietnamembassy-usa.org

Vietnam Visa Policy 2025 – Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Who needs a visa to travel to Vietnam?

Most foreign nationals need a visa to enter Vietnam unless they are from a visa-exempt country. Check the latest list of visa-free countries or use the official Vietnamese government website to confirm your nationality’s requirements.

2. Which countries are eligible for visa-free entry to Vietnam in 2025?

Citizens of the United Kingdom 🇬🇧, France 🇫🇷, Germany 🇩🇪, Italy 🇮🇹, Spain 🇪🇸, Russia 🇷🇺, Japan 🇯🇵, South Korea 🇰🇷, Denmark 🇩🇰, Sweden 🇸🇪, Norway 🇳🇴, Finland 🇫🇮, and several others can enter Vietnam without a visa for up to 45 days. Some countries, like Chile 🇨🇱 and Panama 🇵🇦, are granted up to 90 days. Always check the latest visa-waiver list before planning your trip.

3. What is a Vietnam e-visa and who can apply?

A Vietnam e-visa is an electronic visa that allows foreigners from all countries to apply online for a single or multiple-entry visa, valid for up to 90 days. The process is fast, and you can apply directly through the official government portal.

4. How long does it take to process a Vietnam visa application?

For e-visas, processing time is usually 3–5 working days. For visas applied for at consular offices or embassies, processing time may vary depending on the type of visa and your nationality.

5. What documents are required for a Vietnam visa application?

You typically need:

• A valid passport (with at least six months’ validity)

• A completed visa application form

• A recent passport-sized photo

• Travel itinerary or flight booking

• Proof of accommodation (sometimes required)

• Additional documents for specific visa types (e.g., a letter from a school for student visas, or from an employer for business visas)

6. Can I extend my visa or visa-free stay while in Vietnam?

Generally, e-visas and visa-free stays cannot be extended within Vietnam. You will need to exit the country and reapply for a new visa if you wish to stay longer.

7. What happens if I overstay my visa or visa-free period?

Overstaying can result in fines, deportation, or a ban on re-entry. Always respect the validity of your visa or visa-waiver period.

8. What types of visas are available for Vietnam?

• Tourist visa

• Business visa

• Student visa

• Work visa

• Residence permit

• Transit visa

• Diplomatic/official visa
  Each type has its own requirements and validity period.

9. Can I apply for a Vietnam visa online?

Yes, all foreign nationals are eligible to apply for a Vietnam e-visa online. This is the fastest and most convenient option for tourist and business visits.

10. Do I need a visa if I hold a residence permit from a Schengen country or the UAE?

A residence permit from another country does not exempt you from Vietnam’s visa requirements. You must check Vietnam’s visa policy for your nationality.

11. Is a letter of invitation required for a Vietnam visa?

A letter from an employer, school, or inviting party is only required for certain visa types, such as business or student visas.

12. Where can I find official visa information and apply?

Visit the official Vietnam e-visa portal: https://evisa.xuatnhapcanh.gov.vn
Or contact your nearest Vietnamese consular office or embassy for visa services and information.

13. Can I use a travel document or emergency passport to enter Vietnam?

Some travel documents and emergency passports are accepted, but you should check with the Vietnamese consulate or embassy before traveling.

14. What should I do if my visa application is denied?

You may reapply with corrected documents or contact the Vietnamese consulate for further instructions.

15. Are there special requirements for minors or children?

Children traveling with their parents must have their own passport and, in some cases, additional travel documents or parental authorization.