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Overseas Vietnamese (Việt Kiều)
Individuals of Vietnamese origin currently living, studying, or working abroad. Proof of Vietnamese origin is required.
Overseas Vietnamese & Family
Vietnam 5-year visa exemption certificate
Overseas Vietnamese (Việt Kiều), foreign spouses of Vietnamese citizens, and children of Vietnamese citizens can apply for a 5-year visa exemption certificate allowing multiple entries and stays of up to 180 days — without applying for a new visa each trip.
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Benefits
Why get a visa exemption certificate?
If you travel to Vietnam regularly — for family, work, retirement, or long-term stays — a visa exemption certificate saves significant time and cost compared to applying for a new visa before every trip.
Valid for up to 5 years
Multiple entries into Vietnam
Stay up to 180 days per entry
No separate visa application needed per trip
Faster and simpler immigration procedures
Suitable for family visits, business, retirement, and long-term stays
Eligibility
Who can apply?
Three categories of applicants qualify under Vietnamese immigration law. Eligibility is based on family relationship, origin, or legal marital status with a Vietnamese citizen.
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Foreign spouse of a Vietnamese citizen
Foreign nationals legally married to a Vietnamese citizen. A valid marriage certificate registered in Vietnam or with Vietnamese authorities is required.
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Children of Vietnamese citizens or overseas Vietnamese
Biological or legally adopted children. Birth certificate and supporting documents establishing the parent–child relationship are required.
Documents
Documents typically required
Exact requirements vary by nationality and individual circumstances. We confirm the complete list after reviewing your eligibility and current application rules.
- Passport valid for at least 6 months
- Passport-sized photos (specifications vary by case)
- Proof of relationship with a Vietnamese citizen or overseas Vietnamese
- Marriage certificate or birth certificate, as applicable
- Documents proving Vietnamese origin (for Việt Kiều applicants)
- Current visa or residence permit if already inside Vietnam
Our services
How we can help
New applications
We review eligibility, prepare the full document set, and guide the submission process for first-time applicants.
Renewal and extension
We manage renewals before the 5-year certificate expires so your multiple-entry status is not interrupted.
Lost or damaged replacement
If your certificate is lost, damaged, or stolen, we advise on the replacement process and supporting documents needed.
Urgent processing support
If your travel date or visa status is time-sensitive, we review realistic options for faster processing.
Important to know
Required documents vary by nationality and individual circumstances — we confirm the exact list after reviewing your case
Certificate issuance decisions are made by Vietnamese immigration authorities
Entry and stay are subject to Vietnamese law and may be adjusted by current policy
Processing time depends on the issuing office's workload and the completeness of your documents
FAQ
Common questions
Who qualifies for a Vietnam visa exemption certificate?
Three groups qualify: overseas Vietnamese (Việt Kiều) with Vietnamese origin, foreign nationals legally married to a Vietnamese citizen, and children of Vietnamese citizens or overseas Vietnamese. Eligibility depends on documented proof of origin or relationship.
How long is the Vietnam visa exemption certificate valid?
The certificate is valid for up to 5 years from the date of issue. It can be renewed before expiry to maintain continuous multiple-entry status without a gap.
How long can I stay per entry with a visa exemption certificate?
Each entry allows a stay of up to 180 days. You may enter multiple times during the certificate's 5-year validity period.
What documents are needed for a visa exemption certificate application?
Documents typically include a valid passport, passport-sized photos, proof of Vietnamese origin or relationship (marriage certificate or birth certificate), and any prior Vietnamese immigration documents. Exact requirements depend on nationality and individual circumstances.
Can I renew my Vietnam visa exemption certificate before it expires?
Yes. We manage renewals before the certificate expires. It is important to start the renewal process before expiry to avoid a gap in your multiple-entry status.
What should I do if my visa exemption certificate is lost or damaged?
A replacement can be applied for. The process involves reporting the loss, gathering supporting documents, and submitting a new application through the relevant Vietnamese authority. We can advise on the exact steps for your case.
Next checks
Related visa guidance
These related pages cover nearby situations that often affect the right Vietnam visa route.
Vietnam tourist visa support
Review entry options for visitors who do not yet have a visa exemption certificate.
Vietnam visa extension
Check in-country extension options if your stay needs to be extended.
Vietnam e-visa support
Apply for a single or multiple-entry e-visa while your exemption certificate is being processed.
Check your visa exemption eligibility
Send your nationality, relationship to Vietnam, and current visa status and we will confirm whether you qualify and what documents to prepare.
Sources
- Law No. 47/2014/QH13 – Foreigners Entry, Exit, Transit and Residence - Legal basis for visa exemption categories in Vietnam
- Vietnam Immigration Department - Authority issuing visa exemption certificates for overseas Vietnamese and family members