Visa Policy Updates

The 30-day visa exemption policy for international visitors to Phu Quoc has been regarded as a breakthrough measure that has helped promote tourism development on the island. However, many experts believe that the policy should be further expanded in order to make better use of Phu Quoc’s advantages and support tourism growth across the Mekong Delta region.

National Assembly deputies have proposed introducing a special “cultural visa” or “creative card” for foreign experts, international artists, and leading heritage managers participating in cultural industry projects in Vietnam.

These updates reflect Vietnam’s efforts to support tourism recovery, promote international integration, and modernize immigration procedures. The following are the key points travellers should note when entering Vietnam in 2026.

From April 1, 2026, foreign nationals in special categories entitled to preferential treatment in support of socio-economic development will be exempt from visa issuance fees.

This Circular sets out the fee and charge payers, the fee- and charge-collecting authorities, and the rates, collection, and payment regime for fees and charges in the field of exit, entry, transit, and residence in Vietnam. These include passport, laissez-passer, exit permit, and “AB” stamp issuance charges, as well as visa fees and fees for other documents valid for exit, entry, and residence for foreigners.

A new proposal concerning Phu Quoc’s visa policy has drawn attention in Vietnam’s tourism sector. According to information presented at a visa policy workshop, representatives from Kien Giang’s tourism industry proposed extending visa-free entry for international visitors to Phu Quoc to up to 180 days in order to improve competitiveness and support tourism growth.

From July 1, 2026, foreign nationals in Vietnam who lose their permanent residence cards will no longer need to submit a separate loss report to the authorities. Instead, the loss must be declared directly in the application form for card reissuance, a change aimed at simplifying administrative procedures while maintaining transparency and preventing misuse of residency regulations.

The National Assembly has passed the Law amending and supplementing a number of provisions of 10 laws relating to security and public order. Under this law, effective 1 July 2026, Vietnam will introduce two additional visa categories for foreign nationals.

The Government has issued Decree No. 221/2025/NĐ-CP on visa exemptions for foreign nationals. Accordingly, from August 15, 2025, Vietnam will grant visa exemptions to certain billionaires and internationally recognized public figures.

Resolution No. 124 proposes the granting of visa exemptions and the application of preferential entry visa policies for foreign investors. On 8 May 2025, the Government issued Resolution No. 124/NQ-CP on the regular Government meeting for April 2025.