Can I travel to Vietnam with a new passport and a visa on an old passport?

Navigating Vietnam’s Visa Requirements with a New Passport

So, you’ve got a shiny new passport, a trip to Vietnam booked, and a valid visa… but that visa is in your old passport. Can you still travel? The short answer is: it depends. While it might seem straightforward, navigating Vietnam’s visa regulations requires a close look at the details.

Vietnam’s e-visa policy stipulates your passport must be valid for at least one month beyond your visa’s expiry date. This rule applies regardless of whether you have a new passport. If your visa is in your old, expired passport, and that passport’s expiry date falls within one month of your intended stay, you will be denied entry.

Here’s a breakdown of the scenarios and what you should do:

Scenario 1: Visa in old passport, old passport still valid for at least one month beyond the visa expiry date.

In this case, you can travel to Vietnam. Carry both your old passport (containing the valid visa) and your new passport. Vietnamese immigration officials will cross-reference the information and should allow you entry.

Scenario 2: Visa in old passport, old passport expired or expiring within one month of the visa expiry date.

Unfortunately, this scenario requires action on your part. You cannot use the visa in your expired or soon-to-expire passport. You must apply for a new visa linked to your new passport. Attempting to travel with the old visa will likely result in being denied boarding or entry into Vietnam.

Scenario 3: Brand new passport, no visa.

This is the most straightforward scenario. You simply need to apply for a new e-visa linked to your new passport. Ensure all the information you provide matches your new passport precisely.

Key Takeaways and Recommendations:

• Passport validity is paramount: Always double-check your passport’s expiry date against your planned travel dates and the visa validity period.
• New passport, new visa: The safest and most recommended course of action when obtaining a new passport is to also apply for a new visa linked to that passport. This avoids potential complications and ensures a smooth travel experience.
• Contact the Vietnamese embassy or consulate: If you have any doubts or specific questions about your situation, contacting the Vietnamese embassy or consulate in your country is the best way to receive accurate and up-to-date information.

Planning ahead and understanding Vietnam’s visa requirements will save you potential headaches and ensure your trip gets off to a great start. Don’t let passport issues derail your Vietnamese adventure!