Planning a Vietnam trip? India issues fresh advisory for travellers

Hanoi, Vietnam: The Embassy of India in Hanoi has issued an advisory for Indian nationals travelling to Vietnam, highlighting key concerns related to visa rules for Phu Quoc Island and instances of passport loss.

Under the advisory, the Embassy cautioned travellers about the limitations of visa-free entry to Phu Quoc Island.

“Phu Quoc Island currently offers visa-free entry for certain foreign nationals, including Indian citizens, subject to specific conditions and entry requirements. This exemption is strictly limited to travel to and stay within Phu Quoc Island only, and does not permit entry into mainland Vietnam.”

The advisory noted that unforeseen situations could compel travellers to move to mainland cities such as Ho Chi Minh City or Hanoi, where visa restrictions may create complications.

“However, in certain instances due to unforeseen circumstances, such as medical emergencies and flight disruptions, etc., Indian nationals have been required to travel to mainland Vietnam, including cities such as Ho Chi Minh City or Hanoi, for medical treatment, onward travel, or other assistance. In such situations, individuals who do not hold a valid Vietnam visa permitting entry into mainland Vietnam face significant challenges, including delays in accessing medical facilities, travel restrictions, and immigration-related complications.”

In view of these risks, the Embassy has strongly advised travellers to secure appropriate visas in advance.

“In view of the above, Indian nationals are advised to obtain an appropriate Vietnam visa prior to undertaking travel to Phu Quoc, even if their itinerary is limited to the island. If you do still travel to Phu Quoc without an appropriate Viet Nam visa, which is permissible as per local guidelines, and you are required to travel to mainland Vietnam for reasons as mentioned above, please do understand that there could be immigration-related complications.”

The advisory also addressed cases of lost passports among Indian travellers in Vietnam, urging immediate action.

“There have been instances of loss of passports by Indian nationals while travelling in Vietnam. In such instances, it is mandatory to immediately file a police complaint (to be submitted later in the Embassy of India in Hanoi/Consulate General of India in Ho Chi Minh City) in the concerned jurisdiction where the passport was lost.”

The Embassy stated that it aims to issue emergency travel documents promptly but warned of potential delays due to local procedures.

“On receiving the request for issuance of the Emergency Certificate/Travel Document on loss of passport, it has been the endeavour of the Embassy of India in Hanoi/Consulate General of India in Ho Chi Minh City to issue the document at the earliest on the very same day.”

“Even after the issuance of the Emergency Certificate/Travel Document by us, it normally takes anywhere between 3-5 working days for the Vietnamese authorities, as per local guidelines, for the issuance of an Exit Permit. In some cases, it could also take a little longer. Till the issuance of the Exit Permit by the local authorities, Indian citizens will need to stay in Vietnam.”

The Embassy urged Indian nationals to take note of the advisory and plan their travel accordingly, adding, “The above may kindly be noted by Indian nationals travelling to Vietnam. We wish you a safe and memorable visit to Vietnam.”