If you are planning a trip to Vietnam, one of the essential aspects to consider is obtaining a visa. Vietnam has a unique visa policy that allows certain travelers to enter the country without a visa while requiring others to obtain one. In this article, we will provide you with all the necessary information about Vietnam visa policy, including types of visa, requirements, and exemptions.
What is Vietnam Visa Policy?
A Vietnam visa is an official document issued by the Vietnamese government that allows foreign nationals to enter and stay in the country for a specified period. It indicates that the applicant’s credentials have been verified and approved by the immigration authorities of Vietnam.
It is important to note that a visa is not the same as a passport. Vietnam passports are issued to citizens of Vietnam to facilitate their international travel, whereas a visa is required for non-citizens who wish to visit or stay in Vietnam.
Forms of Vietnam Visa
There are two forms of visa available under Vietnam’s visa policy:
- Loose-leaf visa: This type of visa is issued on a separate piece of paper and attached to the passport of the traveler. It is typically used when the passport has no blank pages for stamping.
- Stamp visa: This type of visa is stamped directly onto the passport of the traveler.
Types and Codes of Vietnam Visa
Vietnam offers up to 21 types of visas depending on the purpose of your visit. Each type of visa has a corresponding code, and the regulations governing these codes were recently amended under Law No. 51/2019/QH14. You can find full details about each type of visa and its corresponding code on the website https://www.vietnam-visa.com/vietnam-visa-types/.
Some of the most popular visa types include tourist visas, business visas, and student visas. Tourist visas allow visitors to enter Vietnam for leisure or sightseeing purposes, while business visas are issued to those who intend to conduct business in Vietnam. Student visas are granted to foreign students who wish to study in Vietnam.
Visa Requirements – Exemption
Not all travelers are required to obtain a visa to enter Vietnam. The country has a visa exemption policy that allows certain passport holders to enter without a visa. The current visa exemption policy includes:
Visa exemption policy for popular passport holders
Holders of popular passports issued by 24 countries do not require visas for Vietnam for various durations depending on the type of passport. For instance, the visa exemption period varies from a minimum of 14 days to a maximum of 90 days. However, some conditions apply for these exemptions, and travelers must adhere to them strictly.
Visa exemption policy for overseas Vietnamese national who holds a foreign passport
Vietnamese citizens residing abroad, their spouses, and children can apply for a Certificate of Visa Exemption. Holders of this certificate do not need a visa regardless of their nationality and can stay for up to 180 consecutive days. The certificate is valid for up to five years or six months before the passport expiration date (whichever is shorter).
It is important to note that visa exemption policies may change from time to time, so it’s essential to check the latest updates before you travel.
How to Apply, Cost & Processing Time
To apply for a Vietnam visa, you can either visit a Vietnamese embassy or consulate in your home country or apply online through a reliable agency. Applying for a visa online is much more convenient and faster, and you can expect to receive your visa approval letter via email within 2-3 business days.
The cost of obtaining a Vietnam visa varies depending on the type of visa you require and the processing method you choose. On average, a tourist visa costs between $20 to $50, while a business visa can cost up to $200.
The processing time for a Vietnam visa also varies depending on the processing method you choose. Applying through an embassy or consulate can take up to a week, while an online application can be processed within a few days.
Conclusion
Understanding Vietnam’s visa policy is essential before planning your trip to this beautiful country. Knowing the different types of visas available, visa requirements, and visa exemptions will help ensure a hassle-free and enjoyable travel experience. Remember to check the latest updates regarding Vietnam’s visa policy as regulations may change from time to time.