I got my Vietnamese 5-Year Visa Exemption

I started traveling to Vietnam regularly beginning in 2017, always having to apply for an e-visa. Each trip involved the same routine—filling out forms, waiting for approval, and hoping everything would go smoothly. It was a necessary hassle, but a hassle nonetheless. Then, a Vietnamese friend casually mentioned something that changed everything: I could apply for a 5-year visa exemption if I had a Vietnamese parent and could prove it. My mother was born in Vietnam, so I decided to give it a shot. Here’s what I had to do.

Understanding the 5-Year Visa Exemption

For those of Vietnamese descent, the 5-year visa exemption is a fantastic opportunity to simplify travel plans. This exemption allows eligible individuals to enter and exit Vietnam multiple times over five years without needing a visa each time. It’s a game-changer for anyone with Vietnamese roots looking to stay connected with their heritage without the hassle of regular visa applications.

Eligibility Criteria

To qualify for this exemption, certain criteria must be met:

• At least one parent must be Vietnamese.
• Proof of Vietnamese heritage must be provided.

This is probably just informative if you have Vietnamese parents, but whatever. ;)

Gathering the Required Documents

The first step was gathering all the necessary documents. Here's what I needed to compile:

1. Passport: A copy of my passport, which should be valid for at least six months from the date of entry.
2. Application Form: The application form for the visa exemption certificate. This form can usually be downloaded from the Vietnamese embassy’s website.
3. Photographs: Two passport-sized photos taken within the last six months.
4. Proof of Vietnamese Descent: This could be my mother’s birth certificate, my birth certificate, or any other document proving my Vietnamese lineage.
5. Copy of Vietnamese Parent’s ID: If available, a copy of my Vietnamese parent’s passport or identity card.
6. Fee: The processing fee, which varies depending on the embassy and specific circumstances.

Submitting the Application

Once I had all the documents ready, I sent them to the Vietnamese Embassy in Berlin, Germany. Here’s a step-by-step guide:

1. Check Embassy Requirements: Visit the Vietnamese Embassy in Berlin's website to confirm the specific requirements and download the application form.
2. Prepare Your Documents: Gather and prepare all required documents, ensuring everything is accurate and up-to-date.
3. Send Your Application: Choose to send them via registered mail to ensure they arrived safely, although submitting them in person is also an option.
4. Wait for Processing: The processing time can vary, but typically it takes a few weeks. It’s a good idea to check the embassy's website or contact them for the most current processing times.

Tips for a Smooth Application Process

• Double-Check Your Documents: Ensuring all documents are complete and correctly filled out helps avoid any delays.
• Keep Copies: Always keeping copies of all documents sent is crucial in case something gets lost.
• Stay Updated: Regularly checking the embassy’s website for any changes in the application process or requirements helps stay informed.

Enjoying the Benefits

A few weeks later, I received my 5-year visa exemption certificate. Holding that certificate felt like unlocking a new level in a game—suddenly, so many new possibilities opened up. This document allows entry and exit from Vietnam multiple times without the need for a visa. It’s incredibly convenient and makes traveling to Vietnam much more accessible. Now, I can easily visit my relatives in Ho Chi Minh City and friends I met over the years in Hanoi without the constant worry of reapplying for a visa.

For my European visitors: As of August 15, 2023, citizens from Germany, France, Italy, Spain, the UK, and several other countries can now enjoy a 45-day visa-free entry to Vietnam. This new policy significantly extends the previous 15-day limit and allows more time to explore Vietnam’s beauty and culture without the hassle of obtaining a visa​.

Link: www.vietnamimmigration.org/vietnam-officially-extends-visa-free-stay-to-45-days-for-citizens-of-13-countries/

If you qualify for this exemption, take advantage of it—it truly simplifies your travels and keeps you connected to Vietnam in the best way possible. Safe travels, everyone!