DETAILED INFORMATION ABOUT VIETNAM VISA EXEMPTION CERTIFICATE (LATEST UPDATE 2026)
In recent years, Vietnam has continuously improved its immigration policies to attract overseas Vietnamese, international experts, and foreign investors. One of the most beneficial policies is the Vietnam Visa Exemption Certificate (commonly known as the 5-year visa).
This article provides a complete and updated guide for 2026, including eligibility, requirements, benefits, application procedures, and important notes.
1. What Is a Vietnam Visa Exemption Certificate?
The Visa Exemption Certificate, also known as the 5-year visa, is issued by the Vietnam Immigration Department or Vietnamese diplomatic missions abroad.
👉 It allows holders to:
- Enter Vietnam multiple times
- Stay without applying for a visa each entry
- Use the certificate for up to 5 years
2. Latest Policy Updates for 2026
According to current regulations and updates from Decree 221/2025/ND-CP, Vietnam has expanded and improved visa exemption policies.
👉 Key highlights:
- Broader eligible groups
- More flexible stay conditions
- Simplified procedures
3. Eligible Applicants
3.1 Overseas Vietnamese
- Vietnamese people residing abroad
- Holding foreign passports or international travel documents
3.2 Relatives of Vietnamese Citizens
- Spouses
- Children
👉 Applies to:
- Relatives of Vietnamese citizens
- Relatives of overseas Vietnamese
3.3 Special Privileged Groups
According to new updates:
- Experts
- Investors
- Scholars
- Business executives
- Guests invited by high-level government officials
4. Validity and Stay Benefits
4.1 Certificate Validity
- Maximum: 5 years
- Must be at least 6 months shorter than passport validity
4.2 Length of Stay per Entry
👉 Up to 180 days (6 months) per entry
4.3 Extension of Stay
If you need to stay longer:
- You can extend your temporary stay for up to 180 additional days
- Requires valid reasons and sponsorship
👉 Extensions are handled by the Vietnam Immigration Department
5. Required Documents (Updated 2026)
Applicants can submit their application at:
- Vietnamese embassies/consulates abroad
- Or the online public service portal
5.1 Basic Documents
✔ Application Form:
- Form NA9 (completed online and printed)
✔ Photos:
- 2 passport-sized photos (4×6 cm, white background)
✔ Passport:
- Valid for at least 1 year
5.2 Supporting Documents
🔹 For Overseas Vietnamese:
- Birth certificate
- Proof of Vietnamese nationality
- Old Vietnamese passport
🔹 For Relatives:
- Marriage certificate
- Birth certificate
👉 Note:
- Documents must be legalized
- Translated and notarized if issued abroad
6. Application Process
Step 1: Prepare documents
Step 2: Submit application
Step 3: Receive results
👉 Processing time:
- 5–7 working days
7. Types of Visa Exemption Certificates
7.1 Stamped Certificate
- Attached directly to passport
7.2 Detached Certificate
- Issued as a separate document
👉 Both types have equal validity
8. Can the Certificate Be Extended?
👉 The certificate itself cannot be extended after expiration
✔ You must apply for a new one
However:
You can:
- Extend your temporary stay
- Or exit and re-enter Vietnam
9. Comparison with Other Visa Types
| Criteria | Visa Exemption Certificate | E-Visa |
|---|---|---|
| Validity | Up to 5 years | Up to 90 days |
| Entry | Multiple | Single/Multiple |
| Application | Simple | Online |
10. Relation to 45-Day Visa-Free Policy
Alongside the 5-year visa exemption:
👉 From March 7, 2025:
Vietnam grants 45-day visa-free entry to citizens of selected countries such as:
- Japan
- South Korea
- France
- Germany
11. Advantages
- No need to apply for a visa repeatedly
- Cost-effective
- Flexible multiple entries
12. Disadvantages
- Limited to specific eligible groups
- Cannot be extended after expiration
13. Common Mistakes
- Incorrect information
- Missing documents
- Failure to legalize documents
14. Tips for Applicants
- Prepare documents carefully
- Check passport validity
- Use professional services if needed
15. Visa Support Services
Professional services can help with:
- Consultation
- Document preparation
- Fast processing
16. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Do I need a visa if I have a visa exemption certificate?
👉 No
How many times can I enter Vietnam?
👉 Unlimited during validity
17. Conclusion
The Vietnam Visa Exemption Certificate is an ideal solution for:
- Overseas Vietnamese
- Family members
- Investors and professionals
👉 It makes traveling to Vietnam easier and more flexible than ever.
18. Final Advice
- Stay updated with regulations
- Ensure document accuracy
- Follow immigration rules