Vietnam Immigration Law Amendments 2023 – Key Updates for Citizens and Foreigners

On June 24, 2023, the 15th National Assembly of Vietnam passed Law No. 23/2023/QH15, amending provisions of:

• Law No. 49/2019/QH14 on Entry and Exit of Vietnamese Citizens.

• Law No. 47/2014/QH13 on Entry, Exit, Transit, and Residence of Foreigners in Vietnam (as amended by Law No. 51/2019/QH14).

These amendments, effective from August 15, 2023, aim to simplify procedures, expand e-Visa policies, and align Vietnam’s immigration system with international practices.

1. Amendments for Vietnamese Citizens (Law No. 49/2019/QH14)

The 2023 amendments update rules for Vietnamese passport holders:

• Expanded passport information: More detailed personal data is now included for accuracy and security.

• Digitalization: Citizens can apply for passports online via the National Public Service Portal.

• Lost or unclaimed passports: Clearer rules on cancellation if passports are lost or not collected within 12 months.

• Faster issuance abroad: Vietnamese embassies and consulates can process applications more efficiently.

👉 These changes make it easier for Vietnamese citizens to obtain, renew, and manage passports both at home and overseas.

2. Amendments for Foreigners (Law No. 47/2014/QH13)

The law also introduces important updates for foreigners entering or residing in Vietnam:

• E-Visa Expansion:

  • E-Visas now available for 90 days (previously 30).

  • Both single-entry and multiple-entry e-Visas permitted.

  • More nationalities and more ports of entry are expected to be added.

• Visa-Free Entry Updates:

  • Unilateral visa exemption extended from 15 days to 45 days for eligible countries.

• Temporary Residence Rules:

  • Foreigners must declare residence electronically or via accommodation providers.

  • Hotels and landlords are legally responsible for filing residence declarations.

• Stricter Compliance:

  • Foreigners cannot reside in prohibited or restricted areas.

  • Agencies providing services (employers, tour operators, accommodation providers) must ensure foreigners stay legally.

👉 These updates benefit tourists, expats, and businesses by offering longer stays, greater convenience, and faster digital procedures.

3. Implementation Timeline

• Approval date: June 24, 2023 (5th session of the 15th National Assembly).

• Effective date: August 15, 2023.

• Applies to both Vietnamese citizens and foreigners entering or residing in Vietnam.

The Vietnam Immigration Law Amendments 2023 (Law No. 23/2023/QH15) represent a major step forward in making travel and residency in Vietnam more open and streamlined.

For Vietnamese citizens: ✅ Easier passport applications & digital services.
For foreigners: ✅ Longer visa-free stays, expanded e-Visa options, and simplified residence procedures.

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