If you’re traveling from Italy to Vietnam, it’s important to familiarize yourself with Vietnam’s visa requirements. Whether you’re planning a short holiday or an extended stay, this guide will provide you with all the necessary information to make your journey smooth and stress-free.
Do Italian citizens need a visa for Vietnam?
No, if you have a passport from Italy, you can get a visa-free entry into Vietnam for 45 days.
What is a visa-free entry?
Visa-free entry allows Italian travelers to visit Vietnam without applying for a visa in advance. This program is available to citizens of select countries, including Italy, for stays of up to 45 days.
How does a visa-free entry work?
Traveling to Vietnam visa-free is straightforward for Italian citizens. Here’s what you need to know:
- Duration: Maximum stay of 45 days.
- Passport requirements: Your Italian passport must be valid for at least six months from your date of arrival.
- Arrival process: Present your passport at immigration upon arrival. No additional documents or prior application are required.
Applying for a Vietnam e-visa for Italian citizens
For most Italian travelers, an e-visa is unnecessary thanks to the 45-day visa-free program. However, if you plan to stay longer, the Vietnam e-visa offers a practical solution. This electronic visa is issued directly by the Vietnamese Immigration Department and replaces the outdated visa on arrival system. Travelers can now complete the process entirely online via the official website.
Why apply for a Vietnam e-visa instead of visa-free entry?
An e-visa is the best option for Italian travelers who intend to stay in Vietnam for more than 45 days. It allows you to remain in the country for up to 90 days and provides the flexibility of single or multiple entries. This is particularly useful for extended stays or for those planning to explore neighboring countries and return to Vietnam.
How to apply for a Vietnam e-visa
The e-visa application process is straightforward and can be completed in just a few steps:
1. Visit the official e-visa website
Go to https://evisa.gov.vn. Ensure that you use the official government site to avoid scams or incorrect information.
2. Complete the application form
Enter your personal details, travel itinerary, and purpose of visit. Double-check your entries to avoid delays caused by errors.
3. Upload required documents
You will need:
- A digital passport photo (4×6 cm, white background).
- A scanned copy of the biographical page of your passport.
4. Pay the visa fee
The processing fee is $25 USD, payable online via credit card. This fee is non-refundable.
5. Receive your e-visa
Processing takes approximately 3 to 4 working days. Once approved, you will receive your e-visa as a PDF via email. Print a copy to carry with your passport when traveling.
Extending your stay longer than 90 days
If you wish to stay in Vietnam beyond 90 days, the e-visa cannot typically be extended. In emergency situations, such as medical issues or lost travel documents, you can apply for an extension at the Vietnamese Immigration Office.
Alternatively, many travelers opt for a visa run, leaving Vietnam briefly to apply for a new visa or to re-enter using visa-free entry. Note that e-visa applications cannot be submitted while you are inside Vietnam, but local visa agents can assist with this process or arrange border crossings.