Vietnam has one of the most generous visa exemption programs in Southeast Asia. Travelers from over 45 countries can enter without a visa. However, since April 15, 2026, even visa-free travelers must complete the mandatory Pre-Arrival Registration Form before landing. This page explains how the form applies to visa-free travelers and which countries are covered.
Which Countries Can Enter Vietnam Visa-Free?
Vietnam maintains visa exemption agreements with a wide range of countries. As of 2026, some of the key exemptions include:
- 90-day visa-free: United States, Australia, Canada, Germany, France, Spain, Italy, Japan, South Korea, Netherlands, Denmark, Sweden, Norway, Finland, Switzerland, New Zealand, and others
- 45-day visa-free: United Kingdom, and other European nations
- ASEAN nations: Most ASEAN countries have separate agreements with Vietnam
This list is updated regularly. Check the current Vietnam Immigration Department website for the complete and most recent list before traveling.
Do Visa-Free Travelers Still Need the Pre-Arrival Form?
Yes – absolutely. This is the most important point for visa-free travelers to understand. The pre-arrival registration form is required regardless of your visa status. Even if you are completely exempt from needing an e-visa to enter Vietnam, you must still complete the pre-arrival declaration at prearrival.immigration.gov.vn before arriving.
The pre-arrival form and the visa (or visa exemption) are entirely separate requirements. One authorizes your entry (visa/exemption), and the other is an immigration declaration system (pre-arrival form). Learn more: Vietnam pre-arrival form vs eVisa.
How to Complete the Form as a Visa-Free Traveler
The key difference for visa-free travelers is what to select in the “Visa Type” field:
- Visit prearrival.immigration.gov.vn
- Select English and click “Create and Submit Declaration”
- Enter personal details: full name, passport number, gender, arrival date
- Under visa type, select “Visa exemption”
- Select your country from the dropdown
- Enter your permitted stay duration (e.g., 90 days for US/Australian citizens, 45 days for UK citizens)
- Add flight and accommodation details
- Submit and save your QR code
Do not select “E-visa” if you are entering on a visa exemption – this will cause a mismatch with your actual entry authorization. Full guide: how to fill the Vietnam pre-arrival form.
Visa Exemption Length by Country
Permitted stays for visa-free travelers vary:
- 90 days: USA, Australia, Canada, Germany, France, Spain, Italy, Japan, South Korea, and others
- 45 days: United Kingdom
- 30 days: Some ASEAN nations and others
- 14 days: Other countries with limited agreements
Overstaying your permitted period carries penalties including fines and potential entry bans. Always check your specific exemption period before booking. Country-specific guides: US citizens, UK citizens, EU citizens, Australian citizens.
What to Select in the Visa Type Field
The pre-arrival form asks for your visa type. For visa-free travelers:
- Select “Visa exemption”
- Do NOT select “E-visa” unless you have actually applied for and received an e-visa
- Enter your nationality and permitted stay duration
If you accidentally select the wrong visa type, simply submit a new declaration with the correct information. The most recent submission is the one used at immigration.
Frequently Asked Questions
I am entering Vietnam visa-free – do I need the pre-arrival form?
Yes. All foreign passport holders – including visa-free travelers – must complete the pre-arrival declaration at prearrival.immigration.gov.vn before arriving.
What do I select in “visa type” if I am visa-exempt?
Select “Visa exemption” and choose your country. Enter your permitted stay duration (e.g., 90 days for US/Australian, 45 days for UK).
Can I extend my visa-free stay in Vietnam?
Visa-free stays generally cannot be extended within Vietnam. For longer stays, apply for a Vietnam e-visa before traveling (valid for up to 90 days per entry). See Vietnam entry requirements 2026 for details.
How many times can I enter Vietnam on a visa exemption?
Visa exemptions typically allow unlimited entries within the exemption period, but immigration officers may question frequent short stays. For regular travel, a multiple-entry e-visa provides more flexibility.