On June 24, 2023, the 15th National Assembly of Vietnam passed Law No. 23/2023/QH15, amending provisions of:
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Law No. 49/2019/QH14 on Entry and Exit of Vietnamese Citizens.
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Law No. 47/2014/QH13 on Entry, Exit, Transit, and Residence of Foreigners in Vietnam (as amended by Law No. 51/2019/QH14).
These amendments, effective from August 15, 2023, aim to simplify procedures, expand e-Visa policies, and align Vietnam’s immigration system with international practices.
1. Amendments for Vietnamese Citizens (Law No. 49/2019/QH14)
The 2023 amendments update rules for Vietnamese passport holders:
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Expanded passport information: More detailed personal data is now included for accuracy and security.
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Digitalization: Citizens can apply for passports online via the National Public Service Portal.
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Lost or unclaimed passports: Clearer rules on cancellation if passports are lost or not collected within 12 months.
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Faster issuance abroad: Vietnamese embassies and consulates can process applications more efficiently.
👉 These changes make it easier for Vietnamese citizens to obtain, renew, and manage passports both at home and overseas.
2. Amendments for Foreigners (Law No. 47/2014/QH13)
The law also introduces important updates for foreigners entering or residing in Vietnam:
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E-Visa Expansion:
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E-Visas now available for 90 days (previously 30).
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Both single-entry and multiple-entry e-Visas permitted.
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More nationalities and more ports of entry are expected to be added.
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Visa-Free Entry Updates:
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Unilateral visa exemption extended from 15 days to 45 days for eligible countries.
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Temporary Residence Rules:
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Foreigners must declare residence electronically or via accommodation providers.
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Hotels and landlords are legally responsible for filing residence declarations.
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Stricter Compliance:
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Foreigners cannot reside in prohibited or restricted areas.
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Agencies providing services (employers, tour operators, accommodation providers) must ensure foreigners stay legally.
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👉 These updates benefit tourists, expats, and businesses by offering longer stays, greater convenience, and faster digital procedures.
3. Implementation Timeline
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Approval date: June 24, 2023 (5th session of the 15th National Assembly).
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Effective date: August 15, 2023.
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Applies to both Vietnamese citizens and foreigners entering or residing in Vietnam.
The Vietnam Immigration Law Amendments 2023 (Law No. 23/2023/QH15) represent a major step forward in making travel and residency in Vietnam more open and streamlined.
For Vietnamese citizens: ✅ Easier passport applications & digital services.
For foreigners: ✅ Longer visa-free stays, expanded e-Visa options, and simplified residence procedures.
📌 Need a Vietnam e-Visa? Apply quickly and securely here: Apply Online