Vietnam has expanded its visa‑free scheme, granting 45 days of visa‑free entry to citizens of 12 additional European countries for tourism. The measure aims to stimulate inbound travel and will be in place for three years.

Who is newly visa‑free (from 15 Aug 2025)?

Citizens of the following countries may enter Vietnam without a visa for up to 45 days:

• Belgium
• Bulgaria
• Croatia
• Czech Republic (Czechia)
• Hungary
• Luxembourg
• Netherlands
• Poland
• Romania
• Slovakia
• Slovenia
• Switzerland

Validity window: 15 August 2025 → 14 August 2028.

Who was already visa‑free (unchanged)

Vietnam continues to offer 45‑day visa‑free entry to citizens of the following 13 countries (policy in force since 15 August 2023):

• Germany, France, Italy, Spain, the United Kingdom
• Denmark, Sweden, Norway, Finland
• Russia, Belarus
• Japan, South Korea

These travellers can also stay up to 45 days visa‑free per entry.

Key conditions

• Purpose: tourism.
• Passport type: any (ordinary/official/diplomatic), as long as standard entry rules are met.
• Entry conditions: travellers must meet Vietnam’s standard entry requirements (e.g., a valid passport, no entry bans). Airlines may ask for proof of onward travel.

Passport validity (practical tip)

Most carriers and official guidance recommend your passport be valid for at least 6 months beyond your intended stay and have at least one blank page for stamps.

Want to stay longer than 45 days?

Two common legal options:

1. Apply for a 90‑day e‑visa (single or multiple entry) on Vietnam’s official e‑visa portal and enter using the e‑visa instead of a visa‑free.
2. Exit and re‑enter (“visa run”): leave Vietnam before day 45 and re‑enter to start a new 45‑day visa‑free period.

Note: e‑visas are generally valid up to 90 days and can be single or multiple entry. Extensions inside the country are limited; most travellers apply for a new e‑visa from outside Vietnam if they need more time.

Quick answers (FAQ)

When does the new rule start? 15 August 2025.

How long can I stay? Up to 45 days per entry visa‑free. For longer stays, use a 90‑day e‑visa.

Does it matter if I have a Schengen visa? No. Eligibility is based on citizenship, not on holding a Schengen visa.

Can I work or study on a visa‑free entry? No. This waiver is intended for tourism. For other purposes, use the appropriate visa.

Is proof of onward travel required? It’s not a published government rule, but airlines may require it at check‑in. Bring a return/onward ticket to be safe.

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