Vietnam Visa RequirementsFor France passport holders
French citizens can visit Vietnam for up to 45 days without a visa, under a bilateral agreement that gives France one of the most generous allowances in Europe.
Great news! France passport holders can enter Vietnam without a visa for tourism or business purposes. You can stay up to 45 days.
No advance visa required for stays up to 45 days. Complete the Vietnam e-Declaration online at e-declaration.customs.gov.vn before arrival. Present your valid French passport at immigration. Ensure your passport is valid for at least six months.
Entry Requirements
Passport Validity
6 months beyond date of entry
Blank Pages
2 blank pages required
Multiple Entry
Single entry only
Work Permitted
No - requires work visa
Current Travel Situation
France to Vietnam: What You Need to Know
Vietnam extended its visa-free period specifically for French citizens to 45 days in 2023, as part of a bilateral agreement recognising the close historical and cultural ties between France and Vietnam. French passport holders can enter Vietnam for tourism without a visa and stay for up to 45 days.
French citizens must complete an online e-declaration before arrival and have a passport valid for at least six months. Vietnam uses the Vietnamese dong (VND). The country is very affordable for French visitors.
For stays beyond 45 days, French citizens must apply for an e-visa (USD 25, up to 90 days) or a visa extension in-country.
Practical Tips
Vietnam uses the Vietnamese dong (VND). The country is extremely affordable: French visitors will find excellent value for money. Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, Ha Long Bay, Hoi An, and Da Nang are the most popular stops on the classic north-south route. Motorbike traffic is intense in cities: cross streets carefully.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do French citizens need a visa for Vietnam?
No. French citizens can enter Vietnam for up to 45 days without a visa, under a bilateral agreement that gives France a more generous allowance than most European countries.
Why do French citizens get 45 days visa-free in Vietnam?
Vietnam signed a specific bilateral agreement with France recognising the historical and cultural ties between the two countries, granting French passport holders a 45-day visa-free allowance compared to 15 days for most other EU nationalities.
What if French citizens want to stay more than 45 days in Vietnam?
For stays beyond 45 days, apply for a Vietnamese e-visa online at evisa.xuatnhapcanh.gov.vn. The e-visa costs USD 25, allows stays up to 90 days, and can be applied for before or during your trip.
What currency does Vietnam use?
Vietnam uses the Vietnamese dong (VND). Cash is commonly used. The dong is a weak currency: French visitors will find Vietnam extremely affordable.