The year 2026 marks many important changes in Vietnam's immigration policy, especially the expansion of the list of countries exempted from visas to Vietnam in 2026. This policy opens up great opportunities for international visitors to easily plan to explore Vietnam without having to go through complicated procedures. In the article below, Frontier Travel Vietnam provides the most updated and complete information on the list of countries exempted from visas, length of stay, application conditions and important notes to help visitors prepare for convenient and complete actions.
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Overview of Vietnam’s Visa-Free Policy in 2026
1. First Group of 12 Visa-Free Countries (Resolution 44/NQ-CP)
This resolution, issued on March 7, 2025, grants visa-free entry from March 15, 2025, to March 14, 2028 to citizens of: Germany, France, Italy, Spain, the United Kingdom, Russia, Japan, South Korea, Denmark, Sweden, Norway, and Finland. Travelers from these countries may stay up to 45 days per entry, regardless of passport type.
2. Second Group of 12 European Countries (Resolution 229/NQ-CP)
Issued on August 8, 2025, and effective from August 15, 2025, to August 14, 2028, this resolution expands the list to include an additional 12 European nations. The policy maintains the same 45-day visa-free stay, further strengthening Vietnam’s position compared with regional destinations such as Thailand, Malaysia, and Singapore.
Policy Status in 2026
Both resolutions remain fully in effect throughout 2026, allowing travelers from these countries to enter Vietnam without applying for a visa in advance. By citing the exact legal documents and effective dates, Frontier Travel Vietnam provides travelers with accurate and reliable information.
Impact on Tourism
The expansion of visa exemptions aligns with Vietnam’s broader efforts to enhance tourism infrastructure and simplify immigration procedures. As a result, Frontier Travel Vietnam has observed a notable rise in European visitors—especially those exploring longer adventure routes, including the Ha Giang Loop, Northeast trails, and Northwest mountain regions.
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Increasing the visa exemption period from 15 days to 45 days creates favorable conditions for international tourists to freely explore Vietnam.
Full List of Visa-Free Countries for Entry into Vietnam in 2026
Vietnam classifies visa-free entry into two categories:
- countries eligible for a 45-day unilateral visa waiver, and
- countries receiving visa exemption under bilateral agreements.
1. 45-Day Visa-Free Entry (Unilateral)
The following 13 countries are eligible for visa-free entry for up to 45 days:
- Germany
- France
- Italy
- Spain
- United Kingdom
- Russia
- Japan
- South Korea
- Denmark
- Sweden
- Norway
- Finland
- Belarus (subject to periodic application)
Citizens of these countries may stay in Vietnam for up to 45 days per entry, regardless of passport type.
2. Visa-Free Entry Under Bilateral Agreements (14–30 Days)
14-Day Visa-Free Entry
- Brunei
- Myanmar
21-Day Visa-Free Entry
- Philippines
30-Day Visa-Free Entry
- Thailand
- Singapore
- Malaysia
- Indonesia
- Laos
- Cambodia
ASEAN travelers benefit significantly from these exemptions, especially those combining multiple destinations within Southeast Asia. This policy supports regional mobility and strengthens Vietnam’s position as a key stop in multi-country itineraries.
Entry Requirements for Visa-Free Travelers to Vietnam
Although eligible travelers do not need a visa, they must still meet Vietnam’s entry conditions. Frontier Travel Vietnam summarises the essential requirements below:
Passport Validity
Passports must be valid for at least 6 months from the date of entry. This requirement is strictly enforced at departure airports and upon arrival in Vietnam.
Immigration History
Travelers who have previously overstayed or violated Vietnamese immigration rules may not qualify for visa-free entry.
Proof of Onward Travel
Airlines or immigration officers may request a return ticket or proof of onward travel to a third country. This is a common requirement for travelers entering under visa-free schemes.
Purpose of Entry
Visa-free entry applies only to tourism, short-term business trips, or family visits. Travelers intending to work or stay long term must apply for the appropriate visa.
Designated Ports of Entry
Visa-free travelers may enter Vietnam through any approved international airport, land border gate, or seaport.
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All applicable visa exemption policies are effective throughout 2026, and extended to 2028 according to each resolution.
The Difference Between Visa-Free Entry and the 90-Day E-Visa
Category | Visa-Free Entry | 90-Day E-Visa |
Requires application in advance | No | Yes |
Length of stay | 14–45 days depending on nationality | Up to 90 days |
Number of entries | Single entry | Single or multiple entry |
Best suited for | Short-term tourists | Long-term travelers or business visitors |
For itineraries lasting more than 45 days, Frontier Travel Vietnam recommends using the 90-day E-Visa to ensure a more flexible and complete travel experience, especially for trekking routes or extended journeys across the northern mountainous regions of Vietnam.
Benefits of Vietnam’s Visa-Free Policy for International Travelers
Vietnam’s visa-free policy offers several meaningful advantages, particularly for travelers who enjoy experiential and long-duration journeys:
- Reduced costs by eliminating visa application fees.
- Less time required for administrative procedures.
- Greater flexibility in planning travel itineraries.
- Convenience for combining multiple destinations or extended routes.
- Easier movement for travelers within the region.
Thanks to this policy, Vietnam has become a preferred destination for many European and Asian visitors seeking a blend of striking natural landscapes and rich cultural experiences.
Tips for Travelers Entering Vietnam Under the Visa-Free Scheme
Travelers should prepare carefully before their trip to ensure a smooth arrival and stay in Vietnam:
- Check the validity of your passport.
- Arrange suitable travel insurance.
- Keep the address of your first accommodation on hand.
- Carry a printed copy of your return or onward flight ticket.
- Confirm the length of your stay to determine whether visa-free entry or a 90-day E-Visa is more appropriate.
The travel experts at Frontier Travel Vietnam are available to assist travelers in planning itineraries that fit the permitted visa-free duration.
→ Explore more Vietnam Travel Visa For US Citizens: Complete Guide For 2026
Countries Not Eligible for Visa-Free Entry to Vietnam (2026)
The following groups of countries are not currently included in Vietnam’s visa exemption program. Travelers holding passports from these countries must apply for a visa or a 90-day E-Visa before entering Vietnam. These requirements follow existing immigration policies and may be adjusted in future updates.
1. North America
- United States
- Canada
2. Oceania
- Australia
- New Zealand
3. Asia (excluding Japan and South Korea)
- China
- India
- Taiwan
- Nepal
- Bangladesh
- Pakistan
- Sri Lanka
- Bhutan
- Maldives
4. Middle East
- United Arab Emirates
- Saudi Arabia
- Qatar
- Kuwait
- Oman
- Bahrain
- Jordan
- Israel
5. Africa
Most African countries are not eligible for visa-free entry, including:
- South Africa
- Nigeria
- Kenya
- Egypt
- Morocco
- Algeria
- Ethiopia
- Ghana
6. Central and South America
- Brazil
- Argentina
- Chile
- Mexico
- Colombia
- Peru
- Venezuela
- Ecuador
The list above reflects Vietnam’s current visa policy at this time. Regulations may be updated periodically, so travelers are advised to check the latest information before their trip to ensure they choose the appropriate visa option.
→ Read more How To Apply For Vietnam Visa 2026: Complete Guide For Travelers
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Which nationalities are eligible for visa-free entry to Vietnam in 2026?
Citizens from selected European and Asian countries are eligible for Vietnam’s visa-free program, including the UK, France, Germany, Italy, Spain, Japan, South Korea, and others. Eligible travelers may stay for up to 45 days depending on nationality.
2. Do US and Canadian citizens qualify for visa-free entry?
No. Travelers holding US or Canadian passports are required to obtain a visa prior to arrival. The 90-day E-Visa is currently the most convenient option.
3. How long can visa-free travelers stay in Vietnam?
Depending on the bilateral or unilateral agreements, visa-free stays range from 14 to 45 days.
4. Can visa-free stays be extended once inside Vietnam?
No. Visa-free stays cannot be extended. Travelers who wish to stay longer must apply for an appropriate visa, such as the 90-day E-Visa.
5. What documents should visa-free travelers prepare?
A valid passport with at least six months’ validity, proof of onward or return travel, and accommodation details. Additional documents may be required depending on airline or immigration procedures.
6. Are multiple entries allowed under the visa-free scheme?
No. Visa-free entry typically applies to single entry only. Travelers needing multiple entries should apply for the 90-day E-Visa.
7. What is the advantage of the 90-day E-Visa compared to visa-free entry?
The 90-day E-Visa offers more flexibility, supports multiple entries, and is suitable for long-term travel, multi-country trips, or extended itineraries in Vietnam.
8. Can travelers work in Vietnam under visa-free entry?
No. Visa-free entry is intended for tourism, short business visits, or family visits. Employment or long-term stays require the appropriate visa and permits.
9. Where can travelers find official updates on Vietnam’s visa policies?
Travelers should refer to Vietnam’s official immigration portal or trusted travel agencies to check the latest visa regulations before their trip.
10. Does Vietnam plan to expand the visa-free list further?
Vietnam reviews its visa policies periodically. Future expansions are possible, but no additional exemptions have been officially announced as of 2026.
Conclusion
Vietnam’s expanded visa-free policy for 2026 makes trip planning easier and more convenient for international travelers. Understanding which nationalities qualify for visa-free entry, along with the corresponding length of stay and entry conditions, helps travelers avoid unnecessary issues and prepare more confidently for their journey.
Frontier Travel Vietnam remains ready to assist travelers in designing suitable itineraries, especially in the northern mountainous regions, where rich cultural traditions and remarkable natural landscapes offer some of the most memorable experiences in Vietnam.
