Vietnam 5-Year Visa Exemption Certificate

The Vietnam 5-year visa exemption certificate (also called Vietnam 5-year visa or spouse visa) is a special long-term entry permit for overseas Vietnamese (Việt Kiều) and their immediate family members. As of December 2025, this certificate remains a popular option, allowing multiple entries over up to 5 years with up to 180 days per stay (extendable once for another 180 days in some cases).

vietnam visa 5-year exemption

Unlike the standard Vietnam e-visa (90 days for all nationalities), this exemption is tailored for those with Vietnamese roots or family ties, making frequent visits for family, business, or personal matters easier and more cost-effective. No major changes occurred in late 2025—the policy continues under the Law on Entry, Exit, Transit, and Residence of Foreigners (amended 2019).

Who Is Eligible for Vietnam 5-Year Visa Exemption?

You qualify if you are:

  • Overseas Vietnamese: Former Vietnamese citizens or those of Vietnamese origin holding a foreign passport.
  • Foreign Spouses or Children: Married to or children of a Vietnamese citizen or overseas Vietnamese (including adopted children).

This applies to all nationalities meeting the criteria. The certificate is valid for up to 5 years but expires at least 6 months before your passport.

Benefits of the 5-Year Visa Exemption Certificate

  • Multiple entries without reapplying for visas.
  • Up to 180 days per visit (longer than the 90-day e-visa).
  • One-time extension possible (up to another 180 days) without leaving Vietnam.
  • Ideal for frequent family visits or handling affairs in Vietnam.
  • Accepted at all 83 entry ports (airports, land borders, seaports).

Requirements & Documents (Updated 2025)

Prepare these:

  • Valid foreign passport (at least 6–12 months validity beyond intended stay).
  • Completed application form (NA9 or online equivalent).
  • 2 recent passport photos (4x6cm or 3.5×4.5cm, white background).
  • Proof of Vietnamese origin or relationship:
    • For overseas Vietnamese: Birth certificate, old Vietnamese ID/passport, citizenship renunciation papers, or guarantee from a Vietnamese association.
    • For spouses/children: Marriage certificate, birth certificate, plus Vietnamese relative’s passport/ID.
  • Notarized copies where required (especially for mailed applications).

Documents in foreign languages may need certified translations.

How to Apply for Vietnam 5-Year Visa Exemption (Step-by-Step)

  1. Prepare Documents: Gather all required items.
  2. Submit Application:
    • Abroad: At a Vietnam Embassy/Consulate in your country (in-person or mail).
    • In Vietnam: At the Immigration Department (Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, or Da Nang).
  3. Pay Fee: Around USD 10–50 (varies by location; money order or cash).
  4. Processing: 3–7 working days (faster in some cases).
  5. Receive Certificate: Stamped in passport or issued separately (detached for certain cases).

Assisted services can handle everything remotely for convenience.

Costs & Processing Time

  • Fee: Low (USD 10–100, depending on location and assistance).
  • Time: 3–7 working days standard.
  • No stamping fees at entry.

Important Notes & Limitations

  • Maximum 180 days per entry—exit and re-enter for a new period, or extend once.
  • Not extendable beyond 5 years—reapply if needed.
  • Cannot be used for paid work (consider work visa instead).
  • Separate from short-term visa exemptions (14–45 days for certain countries) or the new special exemptions for talents/investors.

Alternatives If Ineligible

  • Vietnam E-Visa: 90 days, online, all nationalities.
  • Standard embassy visa or urgent options.

For personalized help with your Vietnam 5-year visa exemption certificate, contact reliable services offering document checks and fast processing.