Do I need a visa if I have a connecting flight in Vietnam?

Do You Need a Visa for a Connecting Flight in Vietnam?

When traveling through Vietnam, it’s important to be aware of the visa requirements for connecting flights. The need for a visa depends on the length of your layover and your itinerary.

Layovers Over 24 Hours

If your layover in Vietnam will exceed 24 hours, you will require a Vietnam transit visa. This visa allows you to stay in the designated transit area of the airport during your layover.

Short Layovers (Under 24 Hours)

For layovers under 24 hours, you may not need a visa. In most cases, you will be allowed to pass through the transit area of the airport without a visa. However, there are some exceptions:

• If you plan to leave the transit area for any personal reasons, such as visiting the city or exploring the airport, you will need a visa.
• Some airlines may require you to have a visa even for short layovers, regardless of your planned activities.

Visa-Exempt Countries

Citizens of certain countries are exempt from visa requirements for Vietnam, including:

• Armenia (15 days)
• Australia (30 days)
• Brunei (30 days)
• Canada (15 days)
• Chile (90 days)
• Denmark (30 days)
• Finland (30 days)
• Germany (30 days)
• Greece (30 days)
• Indonesia (30 days)
• Italy (30 days)
• Japan (15 days)
• Malaysia (30 days)
• New Zealand (30 days)
• Norway (30 days)
• Peru (90 days)
• Philippines (30 days)
• Russia (15 days)
• Singapore (30 days)
• South Korea (15 days)
• Spain (30 days)
• Sweden (30 days)
• Switzerland (30 days)
• Taiwan (14 days)
• Thailand (30 days)
• Turkey (30 days)
• United Kingdom (15 days)
• United States (90 days)

How to Obtain a Transit Visa

If you require a Vietnam transit visa, you can apply online or at a Vietnamese embassy or consulate. The application process typically takes a few days.

Important Notes

• Visa requirements can change, so it’s always best to check with the Vietnamese embassy or consulate before you travel.
• If you overstay your visa, you may face fines and penalties.
• It’s highly recommended to have travel insurance to cover any unexpected events.

By understanding the visa requirements for connecting flights in Vietnam, you can ensure a smooth and hassle-free travel experience.