Phu Quoc Visa Exemption – Everything You Need to Know

The visa exemption policy is one of the most crucial pieces of information that international travelers must be aware of to ensure a smooth entry and stay in Phu Quoc. The Vietnamese government has established and enforces visa regulations for Phu Quoc, which are essential to know if you want to enjoy a hassle-free vacation. Any issues related to Phu Quoc visa Exemption can affect your travel plans, so this article provides guidance on visa extensions and how to guarantee a seamless entry to the island.

What is visa exemption?

Visa exemption, also known as visa-free entry, is a policy that allows citizens from certain countries to enter another country without obtaining a visa beforehand. This policy typically applies to short-term visits, often lasting less than 30 days.

This exemption simplifies entry procedures and provides convenience for travelers by saving time and costs associated with visa applications. However, countries may impose conditions, such as a maximum length of stay and specific travel purposes. Understanding the visa exemption policy is vital to ensure a hassle-free journey.

Why are foreigners granted visa exemption for Phu Quoc?

Phu Quoc is the only place in Vietnam that meets all four legal criteria for visa exemption for foreigners, including:

• Having an international airport: Phu Quoc International Airport serves as a key gateway, connecting the island to international and domestic destinations.
• A separate geographical space: Phu Quoc is an independent island with a distinct tourism ecosystem, making it easy to manage and develop tourism activities.
• Clearly defined geographical boundaries, separate from the mainland: Located off the southwest coast of Vietnam, Phu Quoc is entirely surrounded by the sea, forming an independent geographical area for better policy implementation.
• Aligned with socio-economic development goals while ensuring national security: The visa exemption policy is designed to boost Phu Quoc’s economy while maintaining security and social order.

Since July 1, 2020, international travelers and Vietnamese citizens holding foreign passports can stay in Phu Quoc visa-free for up to 30 days. This policy applies to visitors arriving directly in Phu Quoc or transiting through other international airports in Vietnam before continuing their journey to the island.

Conditions for visa exemption in Phu Quoc

To be eligible for visa-free entry to Phu Quoc, foreigners must meet the following requirements:

1. Nationality: The traveler must be from a country listed under Vietnam’s visa exemption policy for Phu Quoc.
   
2. Length of Stay: The maximum stay allowed under visa exemption is 30 consecutive days. Travelers who wish to stay longer must apply for a visa.
   
3. Direct Entry to Phu Quoc: The island must be the first and only destination in Vietnam. Travelers must arrive from an international location and should not enter any other Vietnamese provinces before reaching Phu Quoc.
   
4. Required Documents: A valid passport, return flight ticket, and proof of financial means to cover expenses during the stay may be required.
   
5. You have not been extradited from Vietnam in the past.
6. You are not on the wanted person list of Interpol.

Top tourist attractions in Phu Quoc

• Sao Beach: Famous for its soft white sand and crystal-clear waters, Sao Beach is an ideal spot for swimming and relaxation. Water sports such as surfing and snorkeling are also popular here.
• Vinpearl Safari: As Vietnam’s largest open zoo, Vinpearl Safari offers visitors the chance to see rare and exotic wildlife. Guests can explore the safari on an electric tram tour through the natural habitats.
• Suoi Tranh Waterfall: A must-visit for nature lovers, Suoi Tranh features pristine streams and lush greenery, making it a perfect picnic and trekking destination.
• Dinh Cau Temple: Located in Duong Dong Town, Dinh Cau is one of Phu Quoc’s cultural landmarks. It attracts visitors not only for its natural beauty but also as a sacred place of worship for locals.
• Hon Mong Tay (Fingernail Island): A stunning islet near Phu Quoc, Hon Mong Tay is known for its unspoiled beaches and breathtaking scenery, perfect for snorkeling and fishing activities.
• Phu Quoc Night Market: A great place to experience local cuisine, Phu Quoc Night Market offers delicious street food and unique handmade souvenirs.

Regulations on Accommodation & Activities in Phu Quoc

To ensure a smooth trip, visitors should be aware of the following rules and regulations:

• Accommodation: Travelers can choose from a variety of accommodations, from luxury resorts to budget homestays. Booking in advance is highly recommended, especially during peak tourist seasons.
• Stay Duration: Foreign visitors can stay in Phu Quoc for up to 30 days visa-free. If they wish to extend their stay beyond this period, they must apply for a visa extension.
• Tourism Activities: Phu Quoc is well known for its outdoor activities, including beach relaxation, snorkeling, and cultural and historical site visits. Tourists should follow environmental protection regulations and respect nature reserves.
• Safety: For outdoor activities like diving or trekking, travelers should always follow the guidelines provided by tour operators to ensure their safety.
• Environmental Responsibility: Visitors are encouraged to maintain cleanliness, avoid littering, and participate in environmental conservation efforts at beaches and natural sites.

How to apply for a Vietnam visa & Entry approval in Phu Quoc

Foreigners can choose one of the following three ways to enter Vietnam:

• Option 1: Apply for a Vietnam eVisa (electronic visa).
• Option 2: Submit an NA2 form to the Immigration Department to request an Entry Approval Letter. The visa can be collected in Phu Quoc or at international airports in Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh City. This process requires sponsorship from a company or a relative in Vietnam.
• Option 3: Use Greencanal’s visa and entry approval letter service in Phu Quoc for quick access to other cities in Vietnam for tourism, business, or work purposes.

Foreign travelers arriving by sea or air at one of the three international entry points-Phu Quoc International Airport, Ha Tien International Border Gate, or Dong Duong International Seaport-can stay in Phu Quoc for tourism and leisure for up to 30 days without a visa.

However, if they wish to travel to other Vietnamese cities, they must obtain a visa, unless they are from a country eligible for a visa exemption under bilateral or unilateral agreements or hold a 5-year visa exemption certificate.

Guide to Applying for a Vietnam Visa (eVisa) in Phu Quoc

Guide to Applying for an Entry Approval Letter in Phu Quoc

Detailed procedures and requirements for obtaining an entry approval letter for foreigners sponsored by a company/organization or invited by relatives are available in the “Procedure for Inviting Foreigners” guide.

If a company sends an approved Entry Approval Letter, the foreign traveler only needs to print it on A4 paper and keep it for visa processing at the Visa on Arrival counter at the international airport, as specified in the letter.

Documents Required to Obtain a Vietnam Visa:

• A printed copy of the Entry Approval Letter (A4 paper).

• Two passport-sized photos (3×4 cm) with a white background.

• A valid passport with at least six months of remaining validity.

• A completed NA1 visa application form, signed and with a photo attached.

• Visa stamping fee:

  • $25: Single-entry visa, valid for 30 days.

  • $50: Multiple-entry or single-entry visa, valid for 90 days.

  • The visa type and validity period will match those stated in the Entry Approval Letter.

Present all the above documents at the “Visa on Arrival” counter to complete the entry procedure.

Documents Required for an Entry Approval Letter & Visa Application:

• A recently taken passport-sized photo (4×6 cm) within the last three months.

• A passport with at least six months of remaining validity.

• Additional documents may be required based on the purpose of entry, as advised by immigration officers.

Visa Extension in Phu Quoc

If you are on Phu Quoc and want to extend your Vietnam visa, the majority of travel agencies will do it for you with a certain fee. The process will take about 12 working days (rather long) because your passport needs to be taken to Ho Chi Minh City for processing.

Once your visa has been extended, you can either get the passport in Ho Chi Minh City by traveling there through bus or ferry or get the travel agent to ship it back to you in Phu Quoc.

Frequently asked questions about visa exemption for Phu Quoc

1. Which countries are eligible for Phu Quoc’s visa exemption?

Phu Quoc grants visa-free entry to all international travelers regardless of nationality, as long as they meet the following conditions:

• Arriving directly at Phu Quoc via an international airport or seaport.
• Transiting through a Vietnamese international airport before heading to Phu Quoc.
• Staying for no more than 30 days.

2. Are children eligible for visa exemption in Phu Quoc?

Yes, children are also eligible for visa exemption under the following conditions:

• They must travel with a parent or legal guardian.
• Their passport must be valid for at least six months from the entry date.

3. Can I extend my visa-free stay in Phu Quoc?

No, visa-free stays in Phu Quoc cannot be extended. If you wish to stay longer, you must apply for a new visa once your exemption period ends.

2. My passport is set to expire, so what to do to enjoy Phu Quoc visa free?

You should renew it first prior to traveling to Phu Quoc so as to be eligible for Phu Quoc visa exemption.

3. I’m a backpacker and planning to cross the river border from Laos to Vietnam, and then head to Phu Quoc. Am I exempted from Vietnam visa for Phu Quoc Island?

No, it is because 30-day visa exemption to Phu Quoc is applied if you go directly to Phu Quoc. You are at the land/river border means that you are in different parts of Vietnam, so Vietnam visa is required. So, if you do not apply for one, do not be surprised when you get refused at the border for it.

9. Do I need a visa to Vietnam when traveling to Phu Quoc?

Q: Hi, I’m an American living in Bangkok. I plan to go to Phu Quoc from here for 5 days, but direct flights from here are expensive, so I’m going to book an Air Asia flight to Ho Chi Minh City, and then a same day VietJet flight from HCMC to Phu Quoc. Do I need a Vietnam visa to visit Phu Quoc? (Xeeca)

A: Hi. In this case, you are still required to have a Vietnam visa in order to visit Phu Quoc Island. You will be switching from the international terminal to the domestic terminal in HCMC, so you will have to go through the Immigration Area that requires you to have a visa to do so.