Russia grants Vietnamese citizens visa-free stays of up to 30 days
DNO - Vietnamese citizens can now travel to Russia without a visa for stays of up to 30 consecutive days, provided that their visits are not for employment, under a new policy taking effect on October 15.
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According to VNA, the visa exemption covers private or business visits, tourism, participation in scientific, cultural, socio-political, economic and sporting events as well as transit.
The policy takes effect on October 15, 2026, and remains in force through October 15, 2027.
This visa exemption does not apply to Vietnamese citizens entering Russia for employment purposes, including journalistic activities, or for study or permanent residence in the country.
With the new policy, Vietnam becomes the 12th country whose citizens are eligible for visa-free entry to Russia.
According to Russian officials, the visa-free policy for Vietnamese citizens could help increase tourist arrivals, create jobs in tourism-related services and open up further opportunities for economic cooperation between the two countries.
Also, direct air connections between Russia and Vietnam were expanding, with more routes being added.
The two countries currently operate 78 flights a week. In 2025 alone, 20 new air routes were launched to Vietnamese destinations, including Da Nang, Nha Trang, Cam Ranh, Ha Noi and Ho Chi Minh City.
Improved air connectivity, combined with easier entry procedures, is expected to make travel between the two countries more convenient for holidaymakers and business visitors.
The Russian Ministry of Economic Development expects tourist exchanges between Russia and Vietnam to reach 1.5 million visits by the end of 2026.
Also, the Association of Tour Operators of Russia (ATOR) has forecast that the number of Vietnamese tourists traveling to Russia could increase by at least 30% following the implementation of the visa exemption.
The policy is expected to give fresh momentum to bilateral tourism, while supporting broader people-to-people exchanges and economic ties.
For Vietnamese travelers, the waiver offers a simpler way to explore Russia’s cities, cultural landmarks and diverse travel experiences without applying for a visa for eligible short-term visits.
Travelers should still check the applicable entry requirements before departure, particularly if their intended activities fall outside the permitted purposes of visa-free travel.