Vietnam Expands 45-Day Visa Waiver to 12 More European Countries

Vietnam has once again made headlines in the travel world with its latest move to expand visa-free entry. Starting August 15, 2025, citizens of 12 additional European countries will be able to enjoy a 45-day stay in Vietnam without a visa, bringing the total number of visa-exempt countries to over two dozen. This policy is part of the country’s ongoing effort to attract more international visitors, offer more convenience, and encourage longer stays.

In this article, we break down the details of the new visa waiver, highlight who qualifies under the broader exemption list, and explain how travelers can legally stay in Vietnam beyond the 45-day limit.

Details of the Revised Visa-Exemption Policy

As part of its tourism stimulus efforts, the Vietnamese government has enacted Resolution No. 229/NQ-CP on August 8, 2025, granting a 45-day visa-free stay to citizens of 12 European countries, regardless of passport type. The covered countries are:

• Belgium
• Bulgaria
• Croatia
• Czech Republic (Czechia)
• Hungary
• Luxembourg
• Netherlands
• Poland
• Romania
• Slovakia
• Slovenia
• Switzerland

📌This policy applies from August 15, 2025 to August 14, 2028.

Important note: Before this Resolution, citizens of Czech Republic, Switzerland and Poland are exempted from 45-day Vietnam visa if they book a tour operated by a licensed Vietnamese tour operator. (Click here for details). With this move, this tour booking condition is no longer required for those travelers.

👉Check full list of Vietnam visa exemption countries.

How to Stay in Vietnam Beyond 45 Days

While the new visa-exemption policy offers travelers more flexibility, some visitors may wish to explore Vietnam for longer than 45 days. Whether it’s to enjoy an extended holiday, work remotely, or visit friends and family, staying beyond the exemption period is entirely possible — provided you choose the right approach. Below are two practical and legal options to extend your stay.

Option A: Apply for a 90-Day E-Visa for the Entire Stay

The Vietnam e-visa offers up to 90 days of stay and can be single-entry or multiple-entry, depending on your application, and is available to all nationalities Vietnam Visa. It is ideal for those seeking a hassle-free continuous stay without border runs.

Option B: Visa Run — Exit and Re-Enter under the 45-Day Exemption

Alternatively, travelers can perform a “visa run,” exiting Vietnam near the end of their exemption period (e.g., visiting Thailand, Cambodia, or Laos) and then re-entering to receive another 45-day exemption.

👉Check your guide here https://www.vietnam-visa.com/visa-run/.

Tip for Quicker Arrival: Airport Fast-Track Service

To help travelers make the most of their stay and avoid long queues for their entry at Vietnam Airport, Vietnam-visa.com offers specialized Airport Fast-Track services, including:

These services are perfect for business travelers, families with children or elderly passengers, and anyone who values efficiency and comfort when arriving in Vietnam.

Conclusion

Vietnam’s expansion of its visa-exemption program makes it easier than ever for travelers from eligible countries to experience the country’s rich culture, natural beauty, and warm hospitality without the hassle of a visa application. Whether you’re visiting for a short holiday or planning an extended stay, you now have more options to fit your travel style — from the 45-day visa waiver to the 90-day e-visa, and even visa runs for repeat entries.

To make your arrival and departure smoother, consider booking our Airport Fast-Track services so you can skip long queues and start enjoying Vietnam right away.

For the latest information on Vietnam visa exemptions, e-visa applications, and arrival assistance, visit Vietnam-visa.com — your trusted partner for stress-free travel to Vietnam.