Covid 19 has affected people’s travel plans. That’s because countries around the world have to stop welcoming foreign visitors that could further spread the virus. Vietnam is among those countries that have decided to close its borders to foreign tourists. During the height of the coronavirus pandemic, Vietnam has prevented the entry of all foreign individuals, including those who were granted visa-free entry into the country, such as the South Koreans.
But all these travel restrictions are only temporary. And now that the world is going back to normal, Vietnam has lifted all these travel bans. Therefore, South Koreans, and all other foreign nationals, can now enter Vietnam and enjoy a visa-free holiday.
The Vietnam Visa Waiver Program
The South Koreans are among the top foreign visitors to Vietnam. Last year, there were more than 4 million South Korean visitors who came to the country. Thus, the Vietnam government has made it easier for them to come to the country by offering a visa-free entry. Under the visa waiver policy, South Koreans, along with other foreign nationals, will no longer need to apply for a visa to enter Vietnam. This policy was part of the Vietnam government’s efforts to attract foreign visitors and boost its tourism industry.
So if you’re a holder of a South Korean passport, you should not worry about getting a visa for your Vietnam trip. All you need to bring is your passport. But take note that the visa waiver policy will only apply if your visit to the country is less than 15 days. Thus, you need to present an onward travel ticket to prove that you’ll be out of the country before the 15-day period ends.
Temporary Suspension of Visa-free Entry Due to Covid 19
Vietnam is very serious about its fight against the Covid 19 pandemic. Even with the thriving tourism industry, the government has to make an unfortunate decision of preventing the entry of foreign visitors in a bid to protect its citizens from the deadly virus. Thus, all foreign visitors, including South Koreans who are supposed to enjoy a visa-free entry, were temporarily banned from entering the country.
Thankfully, Vietnam has been successful in its efforts. And now that everything is slowly going back to normal, the country wants foreign nationals to visit again. In fact, the government is hoping to lure thousands of foreign tourists to make its tourism industry thriving again. So if you’re a citizen of South Korea and you’ve always wanted to go to Vietnam, now is the perfect time to visit.
Vietnam Visa-free Entry Requirements for Citizens of South Korea
Even though South Koreans are exempted from a Vietnam visa, they are required to present certain documents before they can enter Vietnam. Here’s what South Koreans are required to present when entering Vietnam:
- Valid South Korean passport – you should be able to show a valid passport. It must not expire within six months from your entry date. The passport should have two blank pages for entry and exit stamps.
- Proof of onward travel – since your visit is only limited to 15 days, then you must be able to provide proof that you will be out of the country within 15 days. This can be a return ticket to South Korea or a plane ticket going to some other countries.
Applying for a Vietnam Visa for Citizens of South Korea
If you feel like 15 days won’t be enough for your holiday in Vietnam, then consider getting a visa. It should be easy since South Korean citizens are qualified to avail of two types of visas, the e-visa, and visa on arrival.
The e-visa, also called the electronic visa, can be applied online pretty easily. You just have to fill out an application form and they will immediately process your visa application. Once the visa is approved, you will get a copy through email. It will be in a PDF file that you need to download and print. Bring the printed visa to Vietnam and you will be allowed entry for a stay of up to 30 days.
For those who needed a visa for longer stays, the visa on arrival is highly recommended. You can also apply for multiple entry options with this type of visa. Just like with the e-visa, you are required to fill out an online application form. Once it’s approved, they will send you an email for your pre-approval letter. Present this letter at the visa counter, along with the other requirements, and you will get a visa sticker on your passport. This visa will let you stay in Vietnam for a maximum of 60 days. That should be enough time to discover everything in Vietnam.
