Air transit without a visa
Transit without a visaPassengers of any nationality who meet the air transit conditions qualify.
- Stay
- Less than 24 hours.
1 way to enter
Vietnam visas
Vietnam transit visa
Passengers of any nationality can change planes without a visa for less than 24 hours if they stay in the airport's secure transit area.
Ways to get a Vietnam transit visa
Who needs it
Passengers who leave the secure transit area or stay for 24 hours or longer do not qualify for this transit exemption.
Who doesn't
Passengers of any nationality qualify if their transit lasts less than 24 hours and they stay in the secure transit area.
Changing planes
- Can you stay airside?
- Yes, without a visa if you stay in the transit area
- Leaving the airport
- Leaving the secure transit area is not covered by the transit exemption. Normal entry requirements apply.
- Longest transit
- 24 hours
- Transit without a visa
- Transit must be by air, last less than 24 hours, and stay within the secure transit area.
Good to know
- Stay in the secure transit area.
- Your transit must last less than 24 hours.
- You may stay overnight in the transit lounge.
- The time limit is strictly less than 24 hours.
Questions
Do I need a transit visa for Vietnam?
Passengers who leave the secure transit area or stay for 24 hours or longer do not qualify for this transit exemption. Passengers of any nationality qualify if their transit lasts less than 24 hours and they stay in the secure transit area.
How long can I stay on a Vietnam transit visa?
Less than 24 hours.
How long can I stay in transit in Vietnam?
Up to 24 hours, if you meet the conditions. Transit must be by air, last less than 24 hours, and stay within the secure transit area.
Can I stay inside the airport in Vietnam without a visa?
Yes, staying in the international transit area is allowed for most travellers. To leave the airport: Leaving the secure transit area is not covered by the transit exemption. Normal entry requirements apply.
What rules do I have to follow on a Vietnam transit visa?
Stay in the secure transit area. Your transit must last less than 24 hours.
Does my passport change whether I need a transit visa for Vietnam?
Yes. Rules depend on the country that issued your passport. Open the Vietnam visa page and choose your passport for a plain answer.
Can a transit visa for Vietnam be refused?
Yes. Officials can refuse a visa or entry, even after you apply. Give true answers, bring the documents asked for, and keep proof of your onward trip and money.
Where do I check the latest Vietnam transit visa rules?
On Vietnam's official immigration or foreign ministry website, or at its embassy. Rules change, so check close to your trip.
Can I change my transit visa once I am in Vietnam?
Often you cannot switch visa type inside the country. Ask the immigration office before you travel if you might need to.
Reviewed by @snuck