A Vietnam visa for 5 years, also known as a visa exemption certificate, allows overseas Vietnamese (Viet Kieu), as well as foreign spouses and children of Vietnamese citizens, to enter Vietnam multiple times without applying for a separate visa.
This 5-year entry permit is valid for up to five years and permits stays of up to 180 days per entry, with possible extensions under certain conditions. Applicants must provide proof of Vietnamese origin or family relationship, such as a birth certificate or marriage certificate, in accordance with Vietnam’s immigration law. Based on our 20+ years of practical experience at Tan Van Lang, preparing the correct documents from the beginning significantly increases the chances of approval and helps ensure a smooth and hassle-free stay in Vietnam.
Vietnam Visa Services for Foreigners
Guaranteed On-Time Processing – Complete Application Consultation Within 2 Hours
Established in 2003 with over 20 years of experience – 10,000+ successful Vietnam visa applications handled.
Vietnam visa service results for foreigners at Tan Van Lang
Eligibility For The 5-Year Vietnam Visa Exemption Certificate
The Vietnam visa for 5 years is not available to all foreign nationals. It is issued only to individuals who meet specific eligibility criteria defined under Vietnamese immigration law.
Eligible applicants
| Eligible group | Description |
|---|---|
| Overseas Vietnamese (Viet Kieu) | Individuals of Vietnamese origin currently residing abroad |
| Former Vietnamese citizens | People who previously held Vietnamese nationality |
| Foreign spouses of Vietnamese citizens | Husband or wife legally married to a Vietnamese citizen |
| Children of Vietnamese citizens | Biological or legally adopted children |
| Spouses or children of overseas Vietnamese | Direct family members of Viet Kieu |
A critical detail most applicants overlook is that documentary proof of Vietnamese origin or family relationship is mandatory. Without these documents, immigration authorities will reject the submission
Basic eligibility requirements
Applicants must satisfy the following conditions:
- Hold a valid passport with at least 12 months validity
- Provide documents proving Vietnamese origin or family relationship
- Not be subject to entry bans under Articles 21 and 28 of Vietnamese immigration law
- Have clear immigration records with the Vietnam Immigration Department
From our daily work with the Vietnam Immigration Department, incomplete documentation is the most common reason for delays.
>>> Read more: Updated Vietnam visa / E-visa requirements 2026: Who needs a Visa, how to apply
Understanding The Vietnam Visa For 5 Years
Many people mistakenly think the Vietnam visa for 5 years allows continuous residence for five years. This is not correct.
Key characteristics of the 5-year visa exemption
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Validity | Up to 5 years |
| Entry type | Multiple entry |
| Stay duration | Maximum 180 days per entry |
| Extension | Possible additional 180 days |
| Eligible applicants | Overseas Vietnamese and close relatives |
| Work rights | Not allowed without work permit |
The validity of the visa exemption certificate must always be at least 6 months shorter than the passport validity.
Example:
| Passport validity | Maximum visa exemption validity |
|---|---|
| 10 years passport | Up to 5 years |
| 3 years passport | Around 2.5 years |
| 1 year passport | Usually not approved |
>>> Read more: Vietnam Visa Rules for Foreigners: The Definitive Legal Guide 2026
Benefits Of The Vietnam 5-Year Entry Permit
1. Multiple entries without visa process
Holders can travel in and out of Vietnam repeatedly without applying for a new visa.
2. Long stay per entry
Each entry allows a stay of up to 180 days, significantly longer than:
| Visa type | Maximum stay |
|---|---|
| Visa exemption (many countries) | 45 days |
| Vietnam e-visa | 90 days |
| Visa on arrival | 30-90 days |
| 5-year visa exemption | 180 days |
3. Simplified immigration procedures
Entry procedures are faster because the visa exemption certificate is already attached to the passport.
4. Ideal for family visits and long-term stay
Many Viet Kieu families use this certificate to return regularly for family reunions, property management, and cultural visits.
>>> Read more: Vietnam visa rejection reasons and how to avoid 2026
Required Documents For Overseas Vietnamese And Foreign Spouses
The required documents differ depending on whether the applicant is Viet Kieu or a foreign relative of a Vietnamese citizen.
Documents for overseas Vietnamese (Viet Kieu)
| Document | Notes |
|---|---|
| Application form | Visa exemption certificate process |
| Passport | Valid for at least 12 months |
| Two photos (4×6 cm) | White background, no glasses |
| Proof of Vietnamese origin | One or more supporting documents |
Examples of proof documents:
- Vietnamese passport (expired or valid)
- Vietnamese identity card
- Birth certificate showing Vietnamese parents
- Household registration book
- Certificate confirming Vietnamese nationality
- Decision on loss or renunciation of Vietnamese nationality
- Other documents confirming Vietnamese origin
Documents for foreign spouses or children of Vietnamese citizens
Applicants must prove their relationship with the Vietnamese citizen.
| Document | Notes |
|---|---|
| Application form | Visa exemption certificate |
| Foreign passport | Minimum 6 months validity |
| Two photos | 4×6 cm |
| Relationship proof | Legal documents required |
Common documents include:
- Marriage certificate
- Birth certificate
- Adoption decision
- Other family relationship documents
>>> Read more: Vietnam visa fees 2026: Updated costs & What travelers should expect
Step-By-Step Process To Apply For A 5-Year Visa Online
The Vietnam visa for 5 years can be applied for either inside Vietnam or from abroad.
Step 1: Prepare the process documents
Applicants must gather all required documents including:
- Passport
- Photos
- Case form
- Proof of Vietnamese origin or relationship
- Supporting documents
Based on our experience handling visa files daily, document verification is the most important stage.
Step 2: Submit the application
Applications can be submitted through two main channels.
| Submission method | Authority |
|---|---|
| Direct submission | Vietnam Immigration Department |
| Online submission | National Public Service Portal |
Applicants currently in Vietnam typically submit to:
- Immigration Department in Hanoi
- Immigration Department in Ho Chi Minh City
- Immigration Department in Da Nang
Online applications require sending documents via postal or courier service.
From our daily work with immigration authorities, online applications reduce travel time but require accurate document scanning.
Step 3: Application review
After receiving the application, the immigration authorities will:
- Verify documents
- Confirm eligibility
- Request payment of the processing fee
- Issue a receipt with the appointment date
If the application is rejected, the authority must provide a written explanation.
Step 4: Receive the visa exemption certificate
Applicants may receive the result in two ways:
| Method | Description |
|---|---|
| In person | Pick up at the Immigration Department |
| Postal delivery | Delivered by registered mail |
Processing time is typically:
5 – 7 working days
Results are issued Monday to Friday.
>>> Read more: Vietnam visa types: Categories 2026
Entry Procedures With A 5-Year Visa Exemption
When entering Vietnam using a Vietnam visa for 5 years, travelers must present:
- Passport
- Visa exemption certificate
- Entry declaration (if required)
The immigration officer will stamp an entry permit valid for 180 days.
Vietnam currently accepts entry at:
| Entry type | Examples |
|---|---|
| International airports | Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, Da Nang |
| Land borders | Lao Bao, Moc Bai |
| Seaports | Hai Phong, Da Nang |
Incorrect entry points can cause immigration delays or refusal of entry.
>>> Read more: Vietnam visa exemption: Vietnam visa-free countries list 2026
Temporary Residence Declaration After Entry
According to Vietnamese immigration law, foreigners must declare temporary residence after arrival.
Temporary residence rules
| Location | Responsible person |
|---|---|
| Hotel | Hotel staff registers automatically |
| Rental apartment | Landlord must declare |
| Private home | Host must report to police |
From our daily work with immigration authorities, failure to declare temporary residence may lead to:
- Administrative penalties
- Immigration complications
- Problems when applying for residence cards
>>> Read more: Vietnam Visa Photo Requirements: The Complete 2026 Guide
Common Scams Related To The 5-Year Vietnam Visa
The popularity of the Vietnam visa for 5 years has created many fraudulent websites.
Common scam tactics:
- Fake government portals
- Excessive service fees
- Fake visa approval letters
- Requests for personal data without authorization
► Based on our 20+ years of practical experience, legitimate visa exemption applications are processed only through:
- The Vietnam Immigration Department
- Vietnamese embassies and consulates
- Authorized immigration service providers
Applicants should always verify the official authority before submitting personal documents.
>>> Read more: Vietnam Airport Fast Track Service 2026 – Skip the Lines, Save Time
Differences Between 5-Year Visa Exemption And Temporary Residence Card
Many foreigners confuse the 5-year visa exemption certificate with a temporary residence card (TRC).
| Feature | Visa exemption | Temporary residence card |
|---|---|---|
| Validity | Up to 5 years | 1–10 years depending on category |
| Work permission | Not allowed | Allowed with work permit |
| Eligible applicants | Overseas Vietnamese families | Investors, workers, spouses |
| Stay duration | 180 days per entry | Continuous residence |
A temporary residence card is required for foreigners who want to work or live long-term in Vietnam.
>>> Read more: List of countries that are difficult to apply for Vietnam visa 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is eligible for a 5-year Vietnam visa exemption?
- Overseas Vietnamese (Viet Kieu)
- Former Vietnamese citizens
- Spouses of Vietnamese citizens
- Children of Vietnamese citizens
Proof of family relationship or Vietnamese origin is required.
How long can I stay in Vietnam with a 5-year visa exemption certificate?
Do I need to renew my 5-year visa every 6 months?
What is the fee for a 5-year Vietnam visa exemption?
| Service | Approximate fee |
|---|---|
| Visa exemption certificate | 10 – 20 USD |
| Postal delivery | Additional service fee |
Service providers may charge additional processing fees.
Can a US citizen get a 5-year visa for Vietnam?
- Overseas Vietnamese, or
- Spouse or child of a Vietnamese citizen.
Otherwise, US citizens must apply for:
- Vietnam e-visa (90 days)
- Business visa
- Temporary residence card
Is the 5-year visa the same as a temporary residence card?
What happens if my passport expires before the 5-year visa?
Why Many Overseas Vietnamese Choose Tan Van Lang
Based on our 20+ years of practical experience since 2003, visa exemption cases often involve complicated documentation such as:
- Proof of Vietnamese origin
- Foreign marriage certificates
- Family relationship verification
- Passport validity conflicts
Tan Van Lang has successfully processed thousands of visa exemption certificates for Viet Kieu families worldwide.
Our immigration services include:
- Vietnam visa exemption certificate
- Work permits for foreigners
- Temporary residence cards
- Visa extensions
- Immigration compliance consulting
From our daily work with the Vietnam Immigration Department, professional preparation of documents significantly reduces processing risks.
Contact Tan Van Lang today via 08.666.000.63 (WhatsApp) to receive expert guidance and advice on your 5-year Vietnam visa application.
Expat living in Vietnam visa: A detailed guide for foreigners 2026 
Do I need work permit or visa Vietnam? A detailed guide for foreigners 2026 
Differences of Work permit vs work visa Vietnam 2026 
Differences of Vietnam visa Single entry vs Multiple entry 2026 
Vietnam visa for Maldivians citizens 2026: Guide, Fees & Requirements 
Vietnam visa / E-visa for Ugandans citizens 2026: Guide, Fees & Requirements 
