19 Mar 2019
0
Vietnam is an increasingly attractive destination for travelers, investors, and foreign workers.
To enter, stay, and exit Vietnam legally, foreigners must understand the key regulations under Law No. 47/2014/QH13 and Law No. 51/2019/QH14, which govern all immigration, residence, and visa matters.
🎯 Our mission: To help foreigners understand and comply with Vietnam’s immigration laws — ensuring a smooth, legal, and worry-free stay.
1. Common Types of Visas in Vietnam
Depending on your purpose of entry, Vietnam offers several visa categories:
- DL – Tourist Visa
- LĐ – Work Visa
- ĐT – Investor Visa
- DH – Study Visa
- TT – Family/Dependent Visa
Validity: Visas are generally issued for 30 days to 12 months, depending on the visa type and entry purpose.
Extension: You may extend your visa at the Immigration Department or the provincial police office where you reside.
👉 Important: Foreigners must use the visa for the correct purpose (e.g., a tourist visa cannot be used for employment).
2. Vietnam E-Visa (Electronic Visa)
Since August 15, 2023, Vietnam has expanded the E-Visa program to citizens of all countries and territories.
- Valid for entry through 40 international checkpoints (air, land, and sea).
- Duration: up to 90 days, single or multiple entry.
- Apply directly through the official government portals:
🔗 https://thithucdientu.gov.vn
🔗 https://evisa.gov.vn
3. Visa Exemption Policy
3.1. Countries Eligible for Visa Exemption
Vietnam grants visa-free entry to citizens of several countries, including Japan, South Korea, France, Germany, Italy, Spain, Thailand, Singapore, Malaysia, Indonesia, Laos, and Cambodia.
Visa-free stays range from 15 to 90 days, depending on nationality.
3.2. 5-Year Visa Exemption for Overseas Vietnamese
Vietnamese citizens residing abroad and their family members may apply for a 5-year visa exemption certificate, allowing each stay of up to 180 days.
📌 Note: Once your visa exemption period ends, you must leave Vietnam and re-enter. On-the-spot extensions are not permitted.
4. Residence Regulations in Vietnam
4.1. Temporary Residence Registration
All foreigners staying in Vietnam are required to register their temporary residence:
- Within 12 hours of arrival (or 24 hours in remote areas).
- Registration is done by the host, hotel, landlord, or accommodation provider.
- You may register online via the Ministry of Public Security’s system or directly at the local police office.
4.2. Temporary Residence Card (TRC)
A TRC replaces long-term visas and is valid for 1 to 5 years. It is granted to:
- Investors, experts, and foreign employees with valid work permits.
- Foreigners who are spouses, parents, or children of Vietnamese citizens.
👉 Holders of a TRC can enter and exit Vietnam multiple times without applying for a new visa.
4.3. Permanent Residence Card (PRC)
A PRC allows indefinite residence in Vietnam and is granted to individuals who:
- Have made special contributions to Vietnam, or
- Maintain long-term family ties with Vietnamese citizens.
After three years of permanent residence, the card can be renewed.
5. Entry and Exit Requirements
5.1. Conditions for Entry
- A valid passport (with sufficient remaining validity).
- A valid visa or eligibility for visa exemption.
- Not subject to entry bans (e.g., due to security, health, or legal issues).
5.2. Cases of Denied Entry
- Using falsified or invalid documents.
- Having violated Vietnamese law previously.
- Being under an official entry ban by Vietnamese authorities.
6. Handling Common Immigration Issues
| Situation | Recommended Action |
|---|---|
| Lost passport | Report to the local police immediately and contact your embassy or consulate for replacement documents. |
| Overstayed visa | Pay a fine, exit the country, and you may face re-entry restrictions. |
| Failure to register residence | Subject to administrative fines and possible denial of visa extension. |
| Using the wrong visa type | Visa may be revoked, and you may be required to leave Vietnam. |
7. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
| Question | Quick answer |
| Which visa type should I apply for? | It depends on your purpose: tourism (DL), work (LĐ), investment (ĐT), study (DH), or family (TT). |
| Can my visa be extended? | Yes, at the Immigration Department or provincial police office. |
| Is e-Visa available for my country? | Yes, for all nationalities, valid up to 90 days. |
| Can I extend a visa exemption? | No, you must exit and re-enter Vietnam. |
| Do I need to register my temporary residence? | Yes, within 12–24 hours of arrival |
| What should I do if I lose my passport? | Report to local authorities and your embassy. |
| What happens if I overstay? | You may be fined and banned from re-entry. |
8. Tips for Foreigners New to Vietnam
- Keep copies of your passport and visa (both printed and on your phone).
- Regularly check your visa or residence card validity.
- If you change your address, update your residence registration.
- For assistance, contact the Vietnam Immigration Department or your embassy/consulate in Vietnam.
✈️ Welcome to Vietnam!
By following the regulations, you’ll enjoy a smooth, safe, and lawful stay in this beautiful country.
