Do cruise ship passengers need a visa for Vietnam?

Cruise Ship Passengers: Visa Requirements for Vietnam

Cruise ship passengers visiting Vietnam may need to obtain a visa, depending on their nationality and embarkation port. While some nationalities are exempt from visa requirements for short stays, the majority of visitors will need to secure a visa before their arrival.

Visa Requirements

The visa requirements for cruise ship passengers vary by nationality. Citizens of the following countries are exempt from visa requirements for stays of up to 15 days:

• Brunei
• Indonesia
• Malaysia
• Myanmar
• Philippines
• Singapore
• Thailand

All other nationalities will need to obtain a visa prior to their arrival in Vietnam.

Embarkation Port

The embarkation port also plays a role in determining visa requirements. Passengers who embark from a port in a country that has a visa exemption agreement with Vietnam may not need a visa, even if their nationality is not on the exemption list. However, it is always advisable to check with the Vietnamese embassy or consulate in your country before making any plans.

Visa Application Procedures

Citizens of countries that require a visa can apply for one of the following types:

• Embassy/Consulate Visa: This visa is applied for in person at the Vietnamese embassy or consulate in your country. The application process usually takes several business days.
• E-Visa: This visa is applied for online through the Vietnamese government’s official website. The application process typically takes a few days to complete.

E-Visa Duration

The duration of an e-visa for cruise ship passengers is typically 30 days. This means that passengers have up to 30 days to enter Vietnam after their visa is issued. Once they enter Vietnam, they can stay for a maximum of 30 days.

Conclusion

Cruise ship passengers who are not exempt from visa requirements should ensure that they obtain a visa before their arrival in Vietnam. The visa application procedures and e-visa durations may vary depending on nationality and embarkation port. It is important to check with the Vietnamese embassy or consulate in your country for the specific requirements that apply to you.