Vietnam Visa Extension Guide: How to Legally Prolong Your Stay

Key Takeaways

• Visa exemption for 12 countries allows 45 days stay with no extension permitted in Vietnam.
• Business visa holders (DN1, DN2) can extend stays up to 12 months with sponsorship.
• E-visa valid for 90 days but must be reapplied after exit; Golden Visa pending launch.

If you’re planning to stay in Vietnam 🇻🇳 for longer than your original visa or visa-free period allows, it’s important to follow the correct legal steps. Vietnam’s visa policies have changed a lot in recent years, with new rules for visa exemption, e-visas, and business visa extensions. This guide will walk you through the process of extending your stay in Vietnam 🇻🇳, explain who can and cannot extend, and help you avoid common mistakes. You’ll also learn about the upcoming Golden Visa program, which promises long-term residency for investors and skilled professionals.

Purpose: Why Extend Your Stay in Vietnam 🇻🇳?

Many travelers, businesspeople, and professionals find themselves wanting to stay in Vietnam 🇻🇳 longer than planned. Reasons include:

• Exploring more of the country’s culture and landscapes
• Continuing business projects or meetings
• Visiting family or friends
• Waiting for the next travel opportunity

However, overstaying your visa or visa-free period can lead to fines, deportation, or future entry bans. That’s why it’s essential to understand your options for a Vietnam Visa Extension and follow the correct steps.

Step 1: Identify Your Visa Type and Eligibility

Before you start, you need to know which visa or entry type you have. This affects whether you can extend your stay and what process to follow.

1.1 Visa Exemption (45 Days)

• Who qualifies: Citizens of France, Germany, Italy, Spain, UK, Russia, Japan, South Korea, Denmark, Sweden, Norway, Finland (until March 14, 2028).
• Temporary exemption: Switzerland, Czech Republic, and Poland (March 1, 2025 – December 31, 2025, tourism only).
• Stay allowed: Up to 45 days per entry.
• Extension possible: No. You cannot extend a visa exemption in Vietnam 🇻🇳. You must exit and re-enter to reset your stay.

1.2 E-Visa (Up to 90 Days)

• Who qualifies: All nationalities.
• Stay allowed: Up to 90 days, single or multiple entry.
• Extension possible: No. You must leave Vietnam 🇻🇳 and apply for a new e-visa.

1.3 Business Visa (DN1, DN2)

• Who qualifies: Foreigners sponsored by a Vietnamese business or organization.
• Stay allowed: Varies (often 1–12 months).
• Extension possible: Yes. You can apply for a Vietnam Visa Extension with proper sponsorship and documents.

1.4 Golden Visa (Planned)

• Who qualifies: Investors and highly skilled professionals (details pending).
• Stay allowed: 5–10 years (not yet available).
• Extension possible: Expected to allow long-term residency and renewal.

Step 2: Vietnam Visa Extension for Business Visas (DN1, DN2)

If you hold a business visa, you may be able to extend your stay without leaving the country. Here’s how to do it:

2.1 Prepare Required Documents

You’ll need:

• Form NA5 (official visa extension application). Download Form NA5 here
• Original passport (valid at least 6 months, with at least 2 blank pages)
• Residence confirmation from local police or online declaration
• Certified copy of your sponsoring company’s legal documents, such as:
  • Business registration certificate
  • Investment certificate (if applicable)
  • Company seal and signature sample

Tip: Double-check that all documents are up to date and match your current situation.

2.2 Submit Your Application

• Where to submit: Immigration Department (Ministry of Public Security) or local Immigration Management Office.
• How to submit: In person, usually by your sponsoring company’s representative.

2.3 Processing Time

• Standard time: 5 working days from the date your complete application is received.

2.4 Receive Your Extension

• If approved, your visa will be extended for the period allowed (often 1–12 months, depending on your sponsor and business needs).
• Collect your passport with the new visa sticker or stamp.

Step 3: Applying for a New E-Visa (For Longer Stays or Non-Exempt Nationals)

If you are not eligible for visa exemption, or you want to stay longer than 45 days, the e-visa is your main option. Here’s how to apply:

3.1 Apply Online

• Official portals: evisa.gov.vn or thithucdientu.gov.vn
• Who can apply: All nationalities

3.2 Upload Required Documents

• Passport scan (main information page)
• Passport photo (recent, color, white background)
• Completed application form (online)

3.3 Pay the Fee

• Fee amount: As specified on the portal (usually non-refundable)
• Payment method: Online (credit/debit card)

3.4 Wait for Processing

• Processing time: 3–5 working days (sometimes longer during busy periods)

3.5 Download and Print Your E-Visa

• How to check status: Use your registration code on the portal
• What to bring: Printed e-visa and your passport when entering Vietnam 🇻🇳

Important: E-visas cannot be extended in-country. After your e-visa expires, you must leave Vietnam 🇻🇳 and apply for a new one if you wish to return.

Step 4: Visa Exemption – What You Need to Know

If you are from one of the 12 visa-exempt countries (or temporarily exempt countries), you can enter Vietnam 🇻🇳 for up to 45 days without a visa.

• No application needed: Just show your passport at the border.
• No extension possible: You cannot extend your stay in Vietnam 🇻🇳. To stay longer, you must exit and re-enter, or apply for an e-visa.
• Purpose: Any purpose (tourism, business, visiting family, etc.)
• Temporary exemptions: For Switzerland, Czech Republic, and Poland, the exemption is for tourism only and valid until December 31, 2025.

Common mistake: Some travelers think they can extend their visa exemption in Vietnam 🇻🇳. This is not allowed. Overstaying can result in fines or being banned from re-entering.

Step 5: Golden Visa – The Future of Long-Term Stays

Vietnam 🇻🇳 has announced plans for a new Golden Visa program, which will allow investors and highly skilled professionals to live in the country for 5–10 years.

• Status: Not yet operational (as of June 2025)
• Expected features:
  • 5–10 year residency
  • Fully online application
  • For investors and skilled professionals
• Details: Still emerging; check official government announcements for updates

Tip: If you’re interested in the Golden Visa, monitor the Vietnam Immigration Department’s official website for the latest news.

Step 6: Checklist Summary – Vietnam Visa Extension Options

Use this checklist to quickly see your options and what you need to do:

Step 7: Time Estimates for Each Process

• Business Visa Extension: 5 working days (after submitting a complete application)
• E-Visa Application: 3–5 working days (after online submission)
• Visa Exemption: Immediate entry (no processing time, but no extension possible)
• Golden Visa: Not yet available (processing times to be announced)

Step 8: Common Pitfalls and How to Avoid Them

1. Overstaying Your Visa or Exemption
– Problem: Overstaying can lead to fines, deportation, or future entry bans.
– Solution: Track your entry and exit dates carefully. Set reminders for your visa or exemption expiry.

2. Trying to Extend a Visa Exemption
– Problem: Visa exemptions cannot be extended in Vietnam 🇻🇳.
– Solution: Plan to exit and re-enter or apply for an e-visa before your exemption ends.

3. Incomplete or Incorrect Documents for Business Visa Extension
– Problem: Missing or outdated documents can delay or deny your extension.
– Solution: Double-check all paperwork, especially company documents and residence confirmation.

4. Using Unofficial Websites for E-Visa Applications
– Problem: Some unofficial sites charge extra fees or provide fake visas.
– Solution: Always use the official portals: evisa.gov.vn or [thithucdientu.gov.vn).

5. Not Checking Latest Policy Updates
– Problem: Visa rules can change quickly.
– Solution: Regularly check the Vietnam Immigration Department’s official website or contact your nearest Vietnamese embassy.

Step 9: Troubleshooting – What to Do If You Have Problems

If your business visa extension is delayed or denied:
– Contact your sponsoring company to check for missing documents.
– Visit the Immigration Department in person for clarification.
– Email [email protected] for assistance.

If your e-visa application is stuck:
– Check your application status using your registration code.
– Make sure your documents meet the photo and scan requirements.
– Contact the official support email or your nearest Vietnamese embassy.

If you accidentally overstay:
– Report to the nearest immigration office as soon as possible.
– Pay any required fines and follow instructions to regularize your status.

Step 10: Official Contacts and Resources

• Vietnam Immigration Department:
  • evisa.gov.vn (official e-visa portal)
  • thithucdientu.gov.vn (official e-visa portal)
• Embassy of Vietnam in Chile:
  • Email: [email protected]
  • WhatsApp: +56 9 9815 6004
• Visa Extension Assistance:
  • Email: [email protected]
• Business Visa Extension Submission:
  • Immigration Department of the Ministry of Public Security or local Immigration Management Office

Key Takeaways and Next Steps

• Visa exemption stays (45 days) cannot be extended in Vietnam 🇻🇳. You must exit and re-enter or apply for an e-visa for a longer stay.
• E-visas allow up to 90 days per stay for all nationalities, but must be reapplied for after exit.
• Business visa holders can extend their stay with proper sponsorship and documents.
• A new Golden Visa program is coming soon, offering 5–10 year residency for investors and skilled professionals.
• Always use official government websites and check for the latest updates before making travel plans.

As reported by VisaVerge.com, Vietnam’s visa policies are designed to support tourism, business, and economic growth, while also protecting the country’s borders. The recent expansion of visa exemption and e-visa options has made it easier for many travelers to visit and stay in Vietnam 🇻🇳, but it’s important to follow the rules closely to avoid problems.

For the most current information, visit the Vietnam Immigration Department’s official website or contact your nearest Vietnamese embassy or consulate.

Checklist Before You Travel or Extend:
– [ ] Know your visa type and allowed stay
– [ ] Track your entry and exit dates
– [ ] Gather all required documents for extensions
– [ ] Use only official application portals
– [ ] Plan ahead for any required exits or re-entries
– [ ] Stay updated on policy changes

By following these steps and tips, you can enjoy your time in Vietnam 🇻🇳 without legal worries and make the most of the country’s welcoming visa policies.

Learn Today

Visa Exemption → A policy allowing nationals from certain countries to enter Vietnam without a visa for a limited time.
E-Visa → An electronic visa permitting stays up to 90 days, available online to all nationalities.
Business Visa (DN1, DN2) → Visa types for foreigners sponsored by Vietnamese companies allowing longer stays and extensions.
Golden Visa → A forthcoming visa granting 5–10 years residency for investors and highly skilled professionals.
Immigration Department → The Vietnamese government agency managing visa applications, extensions, and immigration procedures.

This Article in a Nutshell

Vietnam’s evolving visa policies enable travelers to stay longer through business visa extensions and e-visa renewals. Understanding visa types and regulations helps avoid fines, ensuring legal stays. The upcoming Golden Visa program promises long-term residency for investors and skilled professionals, signaling Vietnam’s commitment to welcoming global talent and investment.
— By VisaVerge.com