Vietnam Visa for South Korean Citizens: 45 Days Free
Do you need a Vietnam visa for South Korean citizens? Not for a short trip. Korean passport holders can enter Vietnam without a visa and stay up to 45 days from the date of entry. If you plan to stay longer, you should apply for a visa before you travel. This guide explains both options, how to apply and the mistakes to avoid.
Vietnam Visa-Free Entry for South Korean Citizens
South Korea is one of 12 countries that Vietnam exempts from visas. The other 11 are Germany, France, Italy, Spain, the United Kingdom, Russia, Japan, Denmark, Sweden, Norway and Finland. The current exemption runs from 15 March 2025 to 14 March 2028, according to Vietnam’s national tourism authority.
Key points:
- Length of stay: up to 45 days from the date of entry.
- Entry conditions: you must still meet all entry conditions under Vietnamese law, whatever your purpose of travel.
- Passport: carry a valid passport. Vietnam usually expects at least six months of remaining validity and blank pages, so check yours before booking.
- Onward travel: immigration may ask to see a return or onward ticket.
Tip: the exemption has an end date. If your trip falls after 14 March 2028, check whether the policy has been extended.
When South Koreans Need a Visa
Apply for a visa before you fly if you:
- plan to stay more than 45 days;
- want a longer stay of up to 90 days with a clear approval in hand;
- need a multiple-entry visa for several trips.
How to Apply for a Vietnam Visa from South Korea
Option 1: Official e-visa portal
Vietnam issues e-visas through its government portal at evisa.gov.vn. Since 15 August 2023 the e-visa has been open to all nationalities. It is valid for up to 90 days, single or multiple entry. Third-party guides report a government fee of USD 25 for single entry and USD 50 for multiple entry, but fees and processing times can change, so confirm them on the official portal.
Option 2: Assisted online service
Travel agencies, including VisaOnlineVietnam, offer assisted applications. You complete an online form and receive an approval by email, with faster options available for urgent trips. VisaOnlineVietnam is a commercial agency, so you can also apply directly on the government portal. Compare the service fees before you decide.
Option 3: Vietnamese embassy in Seoul
You can submit your passport and documents at the Vietnamese embassy in Seoul. This route takes more time and requires you to hand over your passport, so many travelers prefer an online option.
Comparison: Which Option Fits You?
| Situation | Best option |
|---|---|
| Trip of 45 days or less | Visa-free entry |
| Stay of up to 90 days | E-visa |
| Several trips within the validity period | Multiple-entry e-visa |
| Want help with the form | Assisted online service |
What to Prepare
- Passport valid for at least six months, with blank pages
- Digital portrait photo with a plain background (for an e-visa)
- Scan of the passport data page (for an e-visa)
- Planned entry date and entry checkpoint
- Return or onward ticket
- Active email address and a payment card (for an e-visa)
Step-by-Step Checklist Before You Fly
- Check that your passport is valid for at least six months.
- Count your planned days in Vietnam. If it is more than 45, apply for a visa.
- Book a return or onward ticket.
- If you need a visa, apply online several working days before departure.
- Save and print your approval or e-visa.
- Re-check the rules on the official portal one week before travel.
FAQ: Vietnam Visa for South Korean Citizens
Do South Korean citizens need a visa for Vietnam? No, not for stays up to 45 days. South Korea is on Vietnam’s exemption list from 15 March 2025 to 14 March 2028. For longer stays, apply for a visa before you travel.
How long can Koreans stay in Vietnam without a visa? Up to 45 days from the date of entry. Plan your itinerary around that limit, and apply for an e-visa if you expect to need more time.
How long is a Vietnam e-visa valid? Up to 90 days, with single-entry or multiple-entry options. Choose the type that matches your travel plan when you apply.
Where do I apply for a Vietnam e-visa? On the official immigration portal at evisa.gov.vn, or through an assisted service. Both routes need the same basic documents, so prepare your passport scan and photo first.
What documents do I need? A valid passport, a return or onward ticket and your travel details. For an e-visa you also need a portrait photo, a passport data page scan and an email address.
Conclusion
For most Korean tourists, a trip of up to 45 days needs no visa at all. If your plans are longer, apply online before you travel and keep your documents ready. Rules can change, so confirm the latest information close to your departure date. Ready to apply? Start your application here or review the South Korean visa requirements page.
Disclaimer: This article is general information, not legal advice. Entry rules for Vietnam can change. Please confirm the latest requirements with the official government portal or a Vietnamese embassy before you travel. VisaOnlineVietnam.com is a commercial travel agency operated by Transocean Trading Service Travel Company Limited.
