Vietnam begins granting e-visas for visitors from 40 countries

Vietnam began granting electronic visas for foreign citizens from 40 countries worldwide as from February 1, 2017, the Vietnam News Agency (VNA) reports.

According to the State news agency, under the Decree 07/2017-ND-CP issued by the Government on January 25, procedures for applying and payment will be done online. It will take 3 days to process application for an e-visa valid for 30 days. The visa does not require letters of guarantee or invitation.

Foreign citizens will be granted  e-visas for exit and entry through international border gates as listed in Appendix II attached to Decree 07/2017-ND-CP. 

The 40 countries include Azerbaijan, Argentina, Armenia, Ireland, Poland, Belarus, Bulgaria, Brunei, South Korea, Germany, Chile, China (not applicable to Chinese e-passport holders), Colombia, Czech Republic, Cuba, Denmark, Timor Leste,United States of America, Hungary, Greece, Italy, Kazakhstan, Russia, United Kingdom, Luxembourg, Myanmar, Mongolia, Japan, Panama, Peru, Finland, France, The Philippines,Romania, Spain, Sweden,  Uruguay, Venezuela, Norway, and Slovakia.

Major General Le Xuan Vien, Director of the Immigration Department under the Ministry of Public Security, was quoted by VNA as saying that it will benefit the country’s economic development and international integration target, contributing to ensuring national security and social order.

The granting of normal visa will still be implemented in line with regulations of the Law on Entry, Exit, Transit, and Residence for Foreigners in Vietnam, he noted.

The move demonstrates the Government’s determination to promote administration reform, the official added.

by Quoc Uy / VET