RussiaVisa-free Russia drops visas for Vietnamese passport holders from 15 October 2026
Russia has lifted visa requirements for Vietnamese citizens travelling on ordinary passports, allowing visa-free stays of up to 30 days. The arrangement took effect on 15 October 2026 and runs through 15 October 2027.
Viet Nam has welcomed Russia's decision to waive visas for holders of Vietnamese ordinary passports, a change that took effect on 15 October 2026. Spokesperson of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs Pham Thu Hang confirmed the move to reporters on 15 October.
Key facts
- Effective: 15 October 2026
- Applies to: Vietnamese citizens holding ordinary passports
- Maximum stay: 30 days
- Legal basis: Russian President Vladimir Putin's Decree No. 730, signed 12 October 2026
- In place until: 15 October 2027, inclusive
- Not covered: entry for employment, journalism, education or residence
What is changing?
Under Decree No. 730 on temporary entry and exit procedures for citizens of Viet Nam, signed by Russian President Vladimir Putin on 12 October 2026, Vietnamese citizens with ordinary passports can travel to Russia without a visa. Permitted stays run to a maximum of 30 days.
The visa-free regime also covers visa-free transit through Russia.
Who is affected and what can they do?
The visa waiver applies to holders of ordinary Vietnamese passports. Visa-free visits are allowed for private and business visits, tourism, and participation in scientific, cultural, socio-political, economic and sporting events.
What is not covered?
The Decree does not apply to entry for employment, including journalism, education or residence. Travellers planning to work, study, report or live in Russia cannot use the visa-free route on this basis.
How long will it last?
The Decree remains in place through 15 October 2027, inclusive. No decision on what follows that date has been announced.
Why is this happening?
The move followed a joint statement issued during the state visit to Russia by General Secretary and President To Lam in September 2026. The statement set out the two sides' commitments to expanding labour cooperation, increasing regular and charter flights, simplifying entry and exit procedures for Vietnamese citizens visiting Russia, and working towards visa-free travel for ordinary passport holders.
What this means for travellers
Vietnamese citizens holding ordinary passports who plan a short visit to Russia for tourism, business, a private trip or an event can now do so without applying for a visa, for stays of up to 30 days. Anyone travelling to work, study, carry out journalism or take up residence will still need to follow other procedures, as the Decree excludes those purposes. Check the purpose and length of your planned trip before booking, since the waiver applies only within the 30-day limit.
Viet Nam's Ministry of Foreign Affairs has publicly welcomed the arrangement. The Decree is scheduled to run until 15 October 2027, when its future will need to be decided.