Vietnam Visa for Russian Citizens: How to Apply in 2026

Russian citizens do not need a visa to enter Vietnam for stays of up to 45 days. This visa exemption policy, implemented by the Vietnamese government, allows Russian nationals to visit Vietnam for tourism, business, or leisure without requiring prior visa approval.

However, in some cases, Russian citizens will need to apply for a visa before entering, such as when staying longer than 45 days, engaging in work activities, investment projects, or journalism. In the following guide, Your Vietnam Travel will provide a detailed guide on how Russian citizens can apply for a Vietnam visa, helping you easily choose the best option that aligns with your travel or business plans.

Do Russian citizens need a visa to enter Vietnam?

Russian citizens do not need a visa to enter Vietnam for stays of up to 45 days. This policy, introduced by the Vietnamese government, allows Russian passport holders to visit for tourism, business, or leisure without the need for prior visa approval.

However, there are specific scenarios where a visa is required:

• Staying longer than 45 days: If your trip exceeds the 45-day exemption period, you will need to apply for a visa.
• Work or employment: Any employment or business activities that involve work in Vietnam will require a visa.
• Investment activities: Those involved in investment projects will need the appropriate visa for their stay.
• Journalism or media work: Journalists and media professionals must apply for a visa to carry out their activities in Vietnam.

For those who wish to stay beyond 45 days, there are options available. Russian citizens can either:

• Leave Vietnam and re-enter: By traveling to a nearby country, you can take advantage of the 45-day visa exemption again upon re-entry.
• Apply for a 90-day e-visa: This option allows a longer stay without the need to visit an embassy.

Since March 2025, the exemption for Russian passport holders has made travel to Vietnam easier than ever, offering a seamless experience for short visits. However, always ensure your travel plans align with the rules to avoid any complications during your stay.

Russians can enter Vietnam visa-free for up to 45 days (Source: Collected)

Vietnam visa exemptions for Russian citizens

Russian citizens can now benefit from Vietnam’s visa exemption policy, which simplifies travel for both tourism and business purposes. This policy enables Russian passport holders to enter Vietnam without needing prior authorization for multiple visits, making it an ideal option for tourists, professionals, and those interested in exploring business opportunities in the country.

One of the key advantages of this exemption is its broad coverage, applying to both tourism and business activities. Whether you're traveling to experience Vietnam’s famous landmarks like Halong Bay, attending business meetings in Ho Chi Minh City, or participating in conferences in Hanoi, the same 45-day exemption period applies.

Additionally, the exemption allows multiple entries during the 45-day stay. This means travelers can leave and re-enter Vietnam freely within this period, making it a great choice for those planning to explore nearby countries such as Cambodia, Laos, or Thailand as part of their Southeast Asian journey.

This visa exemption policy offers a seamless, flexible travel experience for Russian nationals visiting Vietnam for various purposes, making it a valuable benefit for those looking to make the most of their time in the country.

How long can Russian citizens stay in Vietnam without a visa?

Russian citizens can stay in Vietnam for up to 45 days without a visa. This visa-free period starts from the moment you pass through immigration at your point of arrival, whether it’s at Noi Bai International Airport in Hanoi, Tan Son Nhat in Ho Chi Minh City, or any of Vietnam's land or sea borders.

The 45-day stay is relatively generous when compared to other countries in the region, where typical visa-free allowances range from 14 to 30 days. This extended duration allows Russian visitors to fully explore Vietnam’s diverse landscapes, from the stunning Sapa mountains in the north to the picturesque Mekong Delta in the south, without feeling rushed.

It’s important to note that the 45 days are strictly counted from your arrival date. For example, if you arrive on January 1st, your departure must be no later than February 14th. Exceeding the 45-day period, even by one day, can lead to penalties, deportation, and challenges with future visa applications.

A common misunderstanding among travelers is the belief that leaving and re-entering Vietnam will reset the 45-day clock. While this might be technically possible, immigration officers have the discretion to deny entry to travelers suspected of exploiting the system. To avoid any complications, it's best to plan your trips carefully or apply for a multiple-entry visa if necessary.

Russians can stay in Vietnam visa-free for up to 45 days (Source: Collected)

Vietnam visa requirements and conditions for Russian citizens

When traveling to Vietnam, Russian citizens must fulfill certain visa requirements to ensure smooth entry. Here's an overview of the key conditions:

Passport requirements

To apply for a Vietnam visa, your passport must meet specific criteria:

• It must be valid for at least six months from your intended date of entry into Vietnam.
• There should be at least two blank pages available for visa and immigration stamps.
• A recent passport-sized photo (4x6 cm) with a white background, taken without glasses.
• Additionally, you must not be listed on Vietnam’s immigration restriction list.

Visa on Arrival (VOA) specific conditions

For those applying for a Visa on Arrival (VOA), further requirements apply:

• A printed visa approval letter, which must be obtained through a visa agency.
• Payment of the stamping fee in either USD or VND upon arrival at the airport.

Key entry conditions for Russian citizens

While Russian citizens do not require prior visa approval for short stays in Vietnam, meeting the following entry conditions is crucial:

• Passport Validity: Ensure your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your planned arrival date in Vietnam. This requirement is standard for most Southeast Asian countries and must be adhered to strictly. If your passport expires shortly before or during your stay, you will need to renew it before traveling.
• Blank Visa Pages: Your passport should have a minimum of two blank pages available for immigration stamps. These pages must be located in the visa section, not simply empty pages elsewhere in the document.
• Return or Onward Ticket: While not always requested, it is advisable to have proof of onward travel. This can be either a return ticket to Russia or a ticket to another destination. Airlines may check this before departure, as they risk penalties for transporting passengers without proper exit documentation.
• Purpose of Visit: The visa exemption applies only to tourism and business purposes. Working, studying, or engaging in paid employment is not allowed during this period. Business activities, such as meetings and conferences, are permitted, but employment or long-term projects are not.

How to apply for a Vietnam visa for Russian citizens

Russian citizens planning a visit to Vietnam for more than 45 days, or for purposes beyond the visa-free exemption, will need to obtain a visa. Fortunately, there are several convenient visa options available, each offering different benefits depending on your needs.

Vietnam E-Visa

The Vietnam E-Visa is the simplest and most convenient option for Russian citizens. Launched in August 2023, this online visa system allows travelers to apply from the comfort of their home and receive their visa electronically.

The E-Visa application process is entirely digital. You simply fill out the application form online, upload the required documents, and pay the fee. Once approved, the visa is sent to your email as a PDF, which you can print out and present to immigration officers when you arrive in Vietnam. There's no need to visit an embassy, mail your passport, or wait at the airport for approval. This visa can be used for single or multiple entries, and allows stays of up to 90 days.

• Processing time and fees: Processing time typically ranges from 3 to 7 business days. The government fee is $25 for a single-entry visa and $50 for a multiple-entry visa. Once granted, the visa allows entry through any international airport, seaport, or land border checkpoint in Vietnam.
• Common application issues: To avoid delays or rejections, ensure that all details are correct, especially your passport number, birth date, and name spelling. Also, submit high-quality passport scans or photos with the correct background, dimensions, and file size.

Visa on arrival

For travelers looking to stay in Vietnam for shorter periods, a Visa on Arrival (VOA) is another viable option. However, it's important to note that you cannot simply arrive at a Vietnamese airport and apply for a visa. Instead, you must first secure a pre-approval letter before your departure.

To begin, apply for a visa approval letter through a reputable agency. Once you receive this letter by email, print it out and bring it with you to Vietnam. Upon arrival at an international airport, you’ll present the letter along with your passport and passport photos, and pay the stamping fee to receive your visa.

• Important limitations: Visa o0 for a n arrival is available only at international airports, not at land borders or seaports. If you're traveling by bus from Cambodia or by boat from China, this option won't be applicable. Additionally, the VOA allows for a stay of only up to 30 days, shorter than the 90 days offered by the e-visa.
• Airport stamping fee: Upon arrival, you will need to pay a stamping fee in cash, which is $25 for a single-entry visa and $5multiple-entry visa. Be sure to have the exact amount in US dollars, as the fee cannot be paid in Vietnamese dong or other currencies.

A key advantage of VOA is the simpler application process, as you don’t need to submit passport photos when applying for the approval letter. However, this process does require two passport photos upon arrival at the airport. Another drawback is the waiting time at immigration, which can range from 30 minutes to over an hour, particularly during busy travel periods.

Applying at a Vietnamese embassy or consulate

For those who prefer a more traditional route or if your circumstances don’t fit the criteria for the e-visa or VOA, applying for a visa through a Vietnamese embassy or consulate is still a reliable option.

To apply for a visa at a Vietnamese embassy or consulate, you will need to submit your passport, a completed visa application form, passport-sized photos, and any required fees. Processing times vary depending on the embassy or consulate, but typically take several days to complete.

This option is ideal for those who prefer in-person support, need specific visa types, or plan to stay in Vietnam for longer than the typical e-visa duration. It's also the go-to choice for individuals who may be traveling from countries where e-visa services are unavailable or difficult to access.

Apply for a Vietnam visa at an embassy or consulate (Source: Collected)

How long does it take to process a Vietnam visa for Russian citizens?

The processing time for a Vietnam visa depends on the application method chosen by Russian citizens. Here’s a breakdown of how long it takes for each type of visa:

• Vietnam e-visa processing time: For Russian travelers applying for an e-visa, the processing time typically ranges from 3 to 7 business days. This is the most efficient option, as it allows travelers to apply online and receive their approved visa via email. There’s no need for an in-person visit or additional waiting time at the airport.
• Visa on arrival (VOA) processing time: If opting for a Visa on Arrival, the processing time is slightly longer. The approval letter from the visa agency can take between 3 to 5 business days to be issued. After arriving in Vietnam, there may be an additional wait of up to 45 minutes at the airport for the visa stamping process.
• Embassy or consulate application processing time: For those applying for a visa through a Vietnamese embassy or consulate, the processing time can vary depending on the specific embassy's location and workload. Generally, the process can take from 5 to 10 business days. Expedited processing is often available for an additional fee if you need the visa sooner.

Cost of a Vietnam visa for Russian citizens

The cost of a Vietnam visa for Russian citizens can vary depending on the type of visa you choose. Here's an overview of the typical fees for each available option:

1. Vietnam E-Visa costs:

• Single-entry visa: $25
• Multiple-entry visa: $50

The fee for the Vietnam e-visa is paid directly through the official government portal during the application process. This is a one-time flat fee, meaning there are no additional charges after your visa is approved.

2. Visa on Arrival (VOA) fees:

• Single-entry visa: $25
• Multiple-entry visa: $50

Along with the fee for the approval letter (which may vary depending on the agency), you will need to pay an airport stamping fee upon arrival in Vietnam. This fee mirrors the visa cost, at $25 for a single-entry visa and $50 for a multiple-entry visa. Be sure to pay the stamping fee in US dollars at the airport.

3. Applying at a Vietnamese Embassy or Consulate:

• Visa fee: Ranges from $25 to $80, depending on the specific type of visa and the embassy or consulate.

If you opt for expedited processing or any additional services, there may be extra charges, so it’s advisable to confirm the total fees directly with the embassy or consulate where you are applying.

Vietnam visa fees for Russian citizens range from 25 to 80 USD (Source: Collected)

FAQs about Vietnam visas for Russian citizens

What documents are required for a Vietnam visa for Russian citizens?

For Russian citizens applying for a Vietnam visa, the required documents may vary depending on the type of visa you are applying for (e-visa, visa on arrival, or embassy/consulate application). However, generally, you will need the following:

• Valid passport: It must be valid for at least six months from your intended date of entry into Vietnam.
• Passport-sized photo: A recent, clear photo (4x6 cm) with a white background, taken without glasses.
• Visa application form: For embassy or consulate applications, you'll need to fill out the visa form.
• Visa approval letter: If applying for a visa on arrival, this document must be obtained through a visa agency before departure.
• Visa fees: Payable online for an e-visa or at the airport for VOA or embassy/consulate applications.

Can Russian citizens extend their Vietnam visa while in Vietnam?

Yes, it is possible to extend your Vietnam visa while in the country, but the process can be complicated and may not always be granted. Extensions are typically available for 30 days beyond the original expiration date. However, this option is not available for e-visas, and it's only applicable to certain types of visas. For those who need to stay longer, it's advisable to apply for an extension before the visa expires, or consider leaving and re-entering Vietnam to reset the 45-day visa exemption.

Are multiple-entry visas available for Russian citizens?

Yes, Russian citizens can apply for a multiple-entry visa to Vietnam, available through both the e-visa system and the visa on arrival option. The standard government fee for a multiple-entry e-visa is $50 USD, with a validity period of up to 90 days (depending on the specific visa type and purpose of entry). The visa on arrival also offers a multiple-entry option, which typically requires a pre-approval letter issued by a licensed Vietnamese agency. The stamping fee at the airport for multiple entries is also $50 USD.

A multiple-entry visa is ideal for travelers who plan to visit other countries in the region (such as Thailand, Laos, or Cambodia) and return to Vietnam within the validity of their visa. It's important to check the latest visa regulations before traveling, as entry rules may change depending on diplomatic agreements and immigration policies.

Do Russian children need a visa to enter Vietnam?

Yes, children of Russian nationals traveling to Vietnam need a visa, just like adults. They are subject to the same visa requirements, whether traveling with parents or guardians. For children under the age of 14, the application process may be slightly different, as some Vietnamese consulates or embassies may require additional documents, such as a birth certificate or proof of guardianship. If the child is traveling with only one parent, additional consent forms may also be required.

What should I do if my Vietnam visa application is rejected?

If your Vietnam visa application is rejected, the first step is to carefully review the rejection reason. Common reasons for rejection include incorrect or incomplete documents, inconsistencies in personal information, or failure to meet the visa requirements. Depending on the reason, you can either:

• Correct the issue: If the rejection is due to a minor error, correct it and submit a new application.
• Contact the embassy or agency: If you applied through a visa agency, contact them for assistance in understanding the rejection reason. They may be able to help you reapply or fix the issue.
• Reapply: After resolving any issues, you may need to submit a new application, either online or through a consulate. Ensure you have all the correct documents and follow the application instructions carefully to avoid delays or further rejection.

Conclusion

Traveling to Vietnam is hassle-free for Russian citizens with the 45-day visa exemption for tourism or business. For longer stays or activities like work or investment, a visa is necessary. The e-visa, visa on arrival, and embassy applications each offer distinct advantages depending on your needs. Ensure you review the requirements and processing times, and submit accurate, complete documents to avoid issues.

For personalized assistance with your Vietnam visa application or any travel-related queries, feel free to contact Your Vietnam Travel. We're here to help ensure a smooth and hassle-free journey to Vietnam!