The Law on Entry, Exit, Transit, and Residence of Foreigners in Vietnam (Law No. 47/2014/QH13) was approved by the National Assembly on June 16, 2014 and has been in effect since January 1, 2015.
This law serves as the legal foundation for foreign citizens visiting, working, or residing in Vietnam. It regulates everything from visa issuance and exemptions to rights, obligations, and residence management.
Below is a simplified summary of the key points.
1. General Provisions
The law defines:
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Scope of application (foreign citizens entering/exiting/transiting/residing in Vietnam).
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Principles of immigration management.
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Prohibited acts (false documents, illegal entry, overstay, etc.).
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Cases where visas or residence permits can be revoked.
2. Visas
Key articles regulate:
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Types of visas: business, tourism, working, study, etc.
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Duration: typically 30, 90, 180 days depending on visa type.
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Exemptions: bilateral/unilateral visa exemptions and cases where foreigners don’t need visas.
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Guaranteeing organizations: agencies/companies inviting foreigners to Vietnam.
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Visa issuance: at embassies, border gates, or via the Vietnam e-Visa system.
👉 Practical note: Since 2017, the Vietnam e-Visa program has expanded, making it easier for eligible nationalities to apply online.
3. Entry Regulations
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Conditions for entry: valid passport/visa, not on entry-ban list.
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Suspension of entry: for security, health, or legal reasons.
4. Transit Regulations
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Foreigners can transit at airports or seaports if they hold valid tickets and passports.
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Dedicated transit areas are regulated to ensure security.
5. Exit Regulations
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Conditions for exit: valid passport/visa, not on exit-ban list.
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Exit can be suspended for pending legal issues, national security, or unresolved obligations in Vietnam.
6. Residence in Vietnam
Temporary Residence
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Foreigners must declare residence via their hotels or accommodation providers.
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Temporary residence can be extended depending on visa type.
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Temporary Residence Cards (TRCs) are available for eligible foreigners.
Permanent Residence
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Permanent residence permits may be granted to foreigners with close family ties, long-term work, or special contributions.
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Conditions, procedures, and renewal of residence cards are detailed in the law.
7. Rights & Obligations of Foreigners
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Rights: freedom of movement (within permitted areas), residence, business, education, healthcare.
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Obligations: comply with Vietnamese law, register residence, respect culture & customs.
8. Responsibilities of Authorities
Different government bodies are tasked with immigration management:
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Ministry of Public Security: main authority for immigration control.
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Ministry of Foreign Affairs: manages visas abroad.
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Ministry of National Defense: oversees border security.
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Local People’s Committees: cooperate in managing residence.
9. Implementation & Effect
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The law took effect on January 1, 2015.
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Transitional provisions applied for visas and residence permits issued before this date.
The Vietnam Immigration Law (47/2014/QH13) is the cornerstone of immigration management, balancing national security with Vietnam’s policy of openness to foreign visitors.
📌 If you are a foreign traveler, worker, or expat in Vietnam, it’s important to understand these regulations to ensure compliance.
👉 Need assistance? Our team at Vietnam Entry Visa provides e-Visa services, urgent visa processing, and residence support for foreigners.
Apply for your Vietnam E-Visa here →