Vietnam is rapidly expanding its visa policies in 2026, with new visa categories launching July 1, an expanded e-visa system covering all nationalities at 83 border gates, and visa-free entry now available to citizens of 29+ countries. Whether you are planning a holiday, a business trip, or a long-term stay, staying up to date with Vietnam visa news helps you avoid delays, extra costs, and application errors. This page covers every major policy change from 2023 through mid-2026, so you always have the latest information before you travel.
Latest Vietnam Visa Policy Changes in 2026
Vietnam’s government has introduced several significant visa updates in 2026. Here are the most recent changes every traveller should know about:
July 2026 – Vietnam-Timor-Leste Visa-Free Agreement
Vietnam and Timor-Leste signed a bilateral agreement granting visa-free stays of up to 30 days for ordinary passport holders. The agreement takes effect once both countries complete internal legal procedures and exchange formal diplomatic notifications.
April 2026 – Pre-Arrival Declaration at Tan Son Nhat Airport
From April 15, 2026, all foreign passengers and overseas Vietnamese entering Vietnam with a visa through Tan Son Nhat International Airport in Ho Chi Minh City must complete a pre-arrival declaration online before departure. The form is available at prearrival.immigration.gov.vn. After submission, you receive a QR code that you must present upon arrival. Completing this step before your flight reduces processing time and helps avoid delays at immigration.
February 2026 – Two New Visa Categories (UD1 and UD2)
From July 1, 2026, Vietnam introduces two new visa categories:
- UD1 Visa – For high-quality digital technology professionals and special talent. Valid for up to five years.
- UD2 Visa – For the spouse and children (under 18) of UD1 visa holders. Also valid for up to five years.
These visas aim to attract skilled foreign workers and their families to support Vietnam’s growing digital economy and socio-economic development.
2025 Vietnam Visa Policy Updates
The year 2025 brought major expansions to Vietnam’s visa framework:
December 2025 – 41 New E-Visa Border Gates
According to Resolution 389/NQ-CP, Vietnam added 41 additional international entry and exit border gates that accept e-visas, bringing the total number of eligible ports to 83. This means travellers using the Vietnam e-visa now have far more flexibility in choosing their arrival point, including land borders, seaports, and airports across the country.
September 2025 – Faster Visa Exemption Certificate Processing
The Prime Minister issued Decision No. 2109/QD-TTg, reducing the processing time for Visa Exemption Certificates from two working days to one. The decision also introduced simplified overseas visa procedures and the use of digital signatures in certain passport-related processes.
August 2025 – Visa Exemptions for High-Profile Visitors
Starting August 15, 2025, Vietnam grants visa exemptions to billionaires, top global business leaders, and internationally recognized figures in culture, arts, sports, and tourism. This includes leaders of the world’s top 100 corporations, award-winning artists, elite athletes, and influential tourism content creators.
August 2025 – 12 Additional European Countries Get Visa-Free Entry
On August 11, 2025, Vietnam extended visa-free entry to citizens of 12 European countries under Resolution No. 229/NQ-CP:
| Country | Visa-Free Duration | Valid Until |
|---|---|---|
| Belgium | 45 days | August 14, 2028 |
| Bulgaria | 45 days | August 14, 2028 |
| Croatia | 45 days | August 14, 2028 |
| Czech Republic | 45 days | August 14, 2028 |
| Hungary | 45 days | August 14, 2028 |
| Luxembourg | 45 days | August 14, 2028 |
| Netherlands | 45 days | August 14, 2028 |
| Poland | 45 days | August 14, 2028 |
| Romania | 45 days | August 14, 2028 |
| Slovakia | 45 days | August 14, 2028 |
| Slovenia | 45 days | August 14, 2028 |
| Switzerland | 45 days | August 14, 2028 |
This policy applies regardless of passport type or purpose of entry.
March 2025 – Tour Operator Visa Exemptions
Vietnam offered 45-day visa-free entry for citizens of the Czech Republic, Switzerland, and Poland when participating in itineraries organized by international tour operators in Vietnam. This policy ran from March 1 to December 31, 2025.
January 2025 – Vietnam-Belarus Mutual Visa Exemption
Effective January 30, 2025, Vietnam and Belarus implemented a mutual visa exemption agreement. Citizens of both countries holding ordinary passports are exempt from visas for stays of up to 30 days per entry.
2023-2024 Vietnam Visa Milestones
2024 Updates
- November 2024 – Vietnam launched a new e-visa portal (evisa.gov.vn) to facilitate foreigners’ entry, replacing the older application system with a more streamlined interface.
- February 2024 – The government discussed proposals for visa on arrival and 36-month multiple-entry visas to further boost tourism.
2023 Updates
- August 2023 – Vietnam began granting e-visas to citizens of all countries, a landmark change that opened the electronic visa system to every nationality worldwide.
- June 2023 – Lawmakers approved the extension of e-visa validity to three months (90 days), with single or multiple entry options.
- May 2023 – Vietnam considered visa waivers specifically for golf tourists to attract the growing golf tourism market.
Current Vietnam Visa Framework (2026)
Vietnam’s visa system in 2026 offers three main pathways for entry:
E-Visa System
The Vietnam e-visa is now the most popular option for tourists and business visitors. Key facts:
- Available to citizens of all countries
- Valid for up to 90 days (3 months)
- Single or multiple entry options
- Accepted at 83 border gates (airports, land crossings, seaports)
- Official application portal: evisa.gov.vn
- Standard processing: 3-5 business days
- Cost: $25 USD (single entry) or $50 USD (multiple entry)
For a step-by-step walkthrough, see our e-visa application guide. If you need to track your application, check our guide on how to check your Vietnam visa status.
Visa Exemption
As of mid-2026, citizens of 29+ countries enjoy visa-free entry to Vietnam. The exemption periods vary:
| Exemption Duration | Eligible Countries |
|---|---|
| 45 days | 12 European countries (Belgium, Bulgaria, Croatia, Czech Republic, Hungary, Luxembourg, Netherlands, Poland, Romania, Slovakia, Slovenia, Switzerland), plus select ASEAN nations |
| 30 days | Japan, South Korea, Russia, Belarus, Timor-Leste (pending), and several Nordic countries |
| 21 days | Philippines |
| 14 days | Brunei, Myanmar |
No gap is required between visa-exempt entries. You can re-enter Vietnam immediately after exiting. For the complete list and conditions, see our Vietnam visa requirements page.
Visa on Arrival
The Vietnam visa on arrival remains available at major international airports. You must obtain a pre-approved visa letter before travelling, then collect your visa stamp upon landing. This option is popular for travellers who need a visa but prefer not to visit an embassy.
Upcoming Visa Changes to Watch
Several proposals and future changes are in various stages of discussion:
- Golden Visa Proposal – Vietnam is considering a “golden visa” valid for 5-10 years for long-term visitors and investors. Details remain under discussion.
- Further Exemption Expansion – The government has signalled plans to add more countries to the visa exemption list. Currently, 29 countries enjoy visa-free access, but the exact timeline for new additions has not been announced.
- UD1/UD2 Digital Talent Visas – Launching July 1, 2026, these new categories target digital technology professionals and their families with 5-year validity.
How These Changes Affect Your Travel Plans
If you are planning a trip to Vietnam in 2026, here is what the latest news means for you:
- Check if you qualify for visa-free entry – With 29+ countries now exempt and 12 European nations added in August 2025, you may not need a visa at all.
- Use the official e-visa portal – Always apply through evisa.gov.vn or thithucdientu.gov.vn. Unofficial websites may charge inflated fees or issue invalid visas.
- Complete the pre-arrival declaration – If arriving at Tan Son Nhat Airport (Ho Chi Minh City), fill out the online form at prearrival.immigration.gov.vn before your flight.
- Verify your entry port – With 83 e-visa-eligible border gates, confirm that your arrival airport or land crossing accepts e-visas.
For a complete overview of all visa categories, visit our Vietnam visa types guide.
FAQs About Vietnam Visa News
What is the new visa for Vietnam 2026?
Vietnam is introducing two new visa categories from July 1, 2026: the UD1 visa for high-quality digital technology professionals and special talent (valid up to 5 years), and the UD2 visa for their spouses and children under 18. These visas aim to attract skilled foreign workers to support Vietnam’s digital economy.
Do Americans need a visa for Vietnam in 2026?
Yes, US citizens still need a visa to enter Vietnam. American passport holders can apply for an e-visa online through the official portal at evisa.gov.vn. The e-visa is valid for up to 90 days and costs $25 for single entry or $50 for multiple entry. See our complete guide on Vietnam visa for US citizens for details.
Is Vietnam changing visa rules?
Yes, Vietnam has been actively expanding its visa policies. In 2025-2026 alone, the country added 41 new e-visa border gates, extended visa-free entry to 12 European countries, introduced new UD1/UD2 digital talent visas, and signed new bilateral visa agreements. The government continues to consider further expansions including a potential golden visa programme.
How long does the Vietnam eVisa take in 2026?
Standard e-visa processing takes 3-5 business days. However, during peak travel seasons or holidays, processing may take longer. You can check your application status online at the official portal. For urgent situations, some agencies offer expedited processing for an additional fee.
How many countries can visit Vietnam without a visa?
As of mid-2026, citizens of 29 or more countries can visit Vietnam without a visa. The exemption periods range from 14 to 45 days depending on nationality. The most recent additions include 12 European countries (August 2025) and a new bilateral agreement with Timor-Leste (July 2026).
What is the official Vietnam e-visa website?
The two official e-visa portals are evisa.gov.vn and thithucdientu.gov.vn. Always use these government websites to apply. Third-party websites may charge extra fees or provide incorrect information. For help identifying the real portal, see our guide to the Vietnam eVisa official website.
Can I re-enter Vietnam immediately after leaving on a visa exemption?
Yes. There is no longer any gap required between visa-exempt entries. Citizens from visa-free countries can re-enter Vietnam immediately after exiting. This rule change, implemented in recent years, gives travellers much more flexibility for multi-country Southeast Asia trips.
