Planning a trip to Vietnam as a Russian traveler starts with knowing the entry requirements. The Vietnam visa for Russian citizens is one of the most important things to check. Vietnam has a friendly and flexible visa policy. However, the rules change based on how long you stay and why you are traveling.
No matter if you are visiting for fun, work, or a long stay, picking the right visa type can make your trip easier. With updated policies and multiple application methods available in 2025, Russian citizens now have more convenient options than ever. Here’s what you need to know before entering Vietnam.
Do Russian Citizens Need a Visa to Enter Vietnam?
The answer depends entirely on the duration of your stay and your travel plans. Russian citizens enjoy a privileged status in Vietnam’s immigration policy compared to many other countries.
Single-Side Visa Exemption (45 Days)
Russia is on the list of countries that receive a visa exemption from the Vietnamese government. This means Russian citizens can enter Vietnam without a visa for a limited period.
- Duration: The latest policy change starts on August 15, 2023, and lasts until 2025. Russian nationals can stay in Vietnam for up to 45 days without a visa.
- Requirements: Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months from the date you enter. You also need a return ticket or a ticket to another country to show that you plan to leave.
- Flexibility: During these 45 days, you can travel freely across Vietnam. This is a significant improvement from the previous 15-day limit, making short-term holidays much easier.
Phu Quoc Visa Exemption (30 Days)
If your destination is exclusively Phu Quoc Island, you are eligible for a special exemption scheme.
- Policy: Vietnam visa exemptions for Phu Quoc for Russians allow for a stay of up to 30 days.
- Conditions: You must fly directly from an international airport to Phu Quoc. You can also transit through a Vietnamese international airport, but you must stay in the transit area. You cannot travel to other parts of Vietnam.
When is a Visa Necessary?
You must apply for a vietnam visa for russian citizens if:
- You intend to stay in Vietnam for longer than 45 days.
- You wish to enter and exit Vietnam multiple times over a period exceeding the exemption limit.
- You are entering for specific business or labor purposes that require long-term documentation.
- Your passport has less than 6 months of validity (though airlines may deny boarding regardless).
Types of Vietnam Visa Available for Russian Citizens
To cater to different travel needs, the Vietnamese government offers several visa types. Understanding the Vietnam visa requirements for Russian citizens for each type is crucial.
Vietnam E-visa (Electronic Visa)
At present, this is the most favored and advised approach for Russian citizens to apply for a Vietnam e-visa.
- Duration: Up to 90 days.
- Entries: Available as Single Entry or Multiple Entry.
- Validity: Valid for entry via 33 international checkpoints, including airports, land borders, and seaports.
- Target Audience: Tourists, short-term business travelers, and digital nomads wanting a 3-month stay.
See more>> Who is eligible for the Vietnam E-Visa?
Visa on Arrival (VOA)
This method requires getting a “Visa Approval Letter” before your flight. You will get the visa stamped when you land at a Vietnamese international airport.
- Processing: Offers quicker handling for urgent cases than regular E-visa processing.
- Limitation: Strictly for air travel only. You cannot use this at land borders.
Embassy Visa
The traditional method involves visiting the Vietnam Embassy in Moscow or the Consulates in Vladivostok or other major Russian cities.
- Usage: Useful for diplomatic visas or specific long-term working visas that require physical submission of documents.
Comparison Table: Vietnam Visa Options for Russians
| Feature | 45-Day Exemption | E-visa (Recommended) | Visa on Arrival |
| Max Stay | 45 Days | 90 Days | Typically 30-90 Days |
| Entries | Single (per entry) | Single or Multiple | Single or Multiple |
| Application | None (Show passport) | 100% Online | Online Letter + Airport Stamp |
| Cost | Free | $25 (Single) – $50 (Multiple) | Service Fee + Stamp Fee |
| Best For | Short holidays | Long trips / Regional travel | Last-minute emergency travel |
See more>> Vietnam visa on arrival: Requirements and process
How to Apply for a Vietnam Visa for Russian Citizens
The process for obtaining a Vietnam E-visa is straightforward. Here is the standard procedure:
Step 1: Prepare Travel Documents
- A digital photo of your passport data page (clear, no glare).
- A digital portrait photo (4x6cm, white background, no glasses).
- A valid credit/debit card for international payment.
Step 2: Submit Application Online
You can apply through the National Immigration Web Portal. You can also use a service like Entry Vietnam Visa to avoid mistakes.
- Fill in personal details exactly as they appear on your passport (Name, Date of Birth, Passport Number).
- Select your entry and exit dates and checkpoints.
- Upload your photos.
Step 3: Pay the Fee
Pay the non-refundable government fee. If using an agency, you will pay a service fee which guarantees support and error checking.
Step 4: Receive and Print
- Vietnam visa on arrival for Russian citizens processing time (or E-visa time) is typically 3-5 working days.
- Once approved, download the E-visa PDF, print it out, and present it along with your passport upon arrival.
Vietnam Visa Fees for Russian Citizens
Budgeting for your trip requires knowing the costs. The Vietnam visa for Russians 90 days e-visa price structure is as follows:
Government E-visa Fee
- Single Entry (up to 90 days): 25 USD.
- Multiple Entry (up to 90 days): 50 USD.
- Important: This fee goes directly to the Immigration Department. You cannot receive a refund, even if they deny the visa.
Visa on Arrival Costs
- Service Fee: Paid online to the agency to get the Approval Letter ($15 – $50+ depending on urgency).
- Stamping Fee: This fee is paid in cash (USD) at the airport ($25 for single entry, $50 for multiple entries).
Exemption Cost
- 0 USD. There is no fee for entering under the 45-day unilateral exemption.
See more>>
- Vietnam Visa for Serbian Citizens
- Vietnam Visa for Singaporean Citizens
- Vietnam Visa for Citizens of Ireland
Common Questions by Russian Travelers
Here are the key questions Russian travelers often ask when preparing for their Vietnam trip:
Can I Work in Vietnam on a Tourist Visa?
No. Using a Tourist Visa (DL) or visa exemption for employment is illegal. To work in Vietnam, you must obtain a Work Permit and a Business Visa (DN) or a Temporary Residence Card. Working illegally can lead to heavy fines and deportation.
What to Do If My Visa Application Is Rejected?
Common reasons include low-quality photos, incorrect name order (ICAO standard), or mismatched passport details.
Solution: You must re-apply and pay the fee again. To prevent this, double-check every detail or use a visa service provider to review your application before submission.
Can I Extend or Change Travel Dates After Applying?
- Dates: You cannot enter before your visa becomes valid. Nonetheless, you may enter subsequent to that date if your visa remains valid.
- Extension: Currently, extending a tourist visa while inside Vietnam is difficult and expensive. A common solution is a “Visa Run.” – This means you will leave Vietnam.
– You could visit either Laos or Cambodia.
– After that, you can return with a new E-visa or visa exemption.
Are Multiple Entries Allowed?
Indeed, if you possess a Multiple Entry E-visa. This is great for travelers who want to use Vietnam as a base to explore Southeast Asia. For example, they can visit Thailand and then return to Vietnam to fly back to Russia. The 45-day exemption technically allows travelers to re-enter, but immigration officers may question frequent back-to-back usage.
Is a Return Ticket Required for Entry?
Yes. Airlines and immigration officers often check for proof of onward travel. This means you need a return ticket to Russia or a ticket to another country. They do this to make sure you do not overstay your visa or exemption period.
Getting a Vietnam visa for Russian citizens is easier than ever. This is because of the 90-day E-visa policy and the 45-day visa exemption. Considering a brief beach getaway in Nha Trang or an extended three-month adventure in the Mekong Delta?
Ensure your paperwork is prepared. To have a smooth process, check that your passport is valid. Next, select the visa category that suits your travel plan.
For travelers who want peace of mind, quick processing, or help with complex plans, Entry Vietnam Visa is your trusted partner.
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