As countries around the world adapt their entry requirements in a dynamically changing environment, Vietnam has introduced new visa policies that will take effect starting August 15, 2023. The changes in the visa policy are particularly beneficial for travelers from specific countries, and it’s essential for prospective visitors to be aware of these adjustments.
Visa Waiver for Specific Nationalities
Starting August 15, if you are a passport holder from Britain, Germany, France, Italy, Spain, Russia, Japan, Korea, Sweden, Finland, Denmark, or Norway, you are eligible for a visa waiver when traveling to Vietnam for less than 45 days. This 45-day visa exemption is for a single entry only, and it includes the date of entry and the date of exit. No additional paperwork is needed for you to enjoy this privilege.
While the visa waiver is convenient for quick trips, it is important to note that it has limitations. For instance, the exemption only covers 45 days, starting from your day of arrival. You must exit immigration by the 45th day, or you will be in violation of the country’s visa policy.
Additionally, while you can exit and re-enter Vietnam using your visa waiver consecutively, each stay must be less than 45 days. Essentially, the visa waiver is designed to accommodate short-term tourism and cannot be used for extended stays or different purposes like work or volunteering.
E-Visa for Extended Stays and Other Nationalities
If your intended stay in Vietnam is for more than 45 days, or if you are a passport holder from a country not listed in the visa waiver program, you can apply for an e-visa online. Information and the application process can be found on Vietnam’s official e-visa portal: evisa.xuatnhapcanh.gov.vn.
Be aware that e-visas are exclusively for tourism. You are not allowed to engage in activities like work, volunteering, or missionary work on a tourist e-visa. Violation of this rule can result in legal consequences.
Special Visas for Business, Expertise, and Skilled Work
If your purpose for visiting Vietnam is business, expertise, or skilled work, the process is slightly more complicated. In this case, you should contact your business partner or employer in Vietnam to initiate the visa process with the Immigration Department of Vietnam and other relevant authorities.
Once the Immigration Department issues a visa approval letter addressed to the Vietnamese embassy in your home country, you can contact the embassy to have your visa issued. The details may vary depending on the nature of your visit, and your employer or business partner in Vietnam will be the best source for specific information.
In Summary
Vietnam’s new visa policies, effective from August 15, 2023, aim to simplify the entry process for tourists from specific countries while providing options for those looking for longer stays or visiting for specialized purposes. The streamlined rules are a welcome change for tourists, but it’s crucial to be aware of the limitations and requirements to avoid any legal complications. Whether you’re planning a quick getaway or an extended stay, make sure to consult the appropriate channels and prepare the required documentation in advance.
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