Do I Need a Visa to Visit Phu Quoc? - All You Need to Know!

Phu Quoc, a renowned travel paradise with stunning beaches, has long been a dream destination for both domestic and international tourists. If you’re an international traveler wondering: do I need a visa to visit Phu Quoc? - The answer is No. Foreign visitors are granted visa-free entry to Phu Quoc for up to 30 days for tourism purposes

1. Visa Exemption for Foreign Tourists for 30 Days

According to Decision No.80/2013/QĐ-TTg: “Người nước ngoài, người Việt Nam mang hộ chiếu nước ngoài nhập cảnh, xuất cảnh, cư trú tại đảo Phú Quốc được miễn thị thực với thời gian tạm trú không quá 30 ngày”, meaning “Foreigners and Vietnamese citizens who hold foreign passports can enter, exit, and reside on Phu Quoc Island without a visa for up to 30 days.”

In other words, international travelers can stay visa-free in Phu Quoc for a maximum of 30 days

Eligibility criteria for visa-free entry to Phu Quoc include:

• Passport Validity: Your passport must be valid for at least six months from your entry date.
• Entry Method: You must enter Phu Quoc through an international port (either by air or sea, excluding land border crossings).
• Entry Regulations: You must not have been deported from Vietnam or be listed on Interpol’s wanted notice.
• Stay Duration: You are allowed to stay in Phu Quoc for up to 30 days. For a longer stay, you can apply for a “Visa Exemption Stamp” extension or leave Vietnam and re-enter after fulfilling the entry requirements.

International tourists visiting Phu Quoc for tourism are exempt from a 30-day visa. - Image source: Joytime

This visa-free policy applies to the following groups:

• Foreign nationals.
• Vietnamese citizens holding foreign passports entering, exiting, and residing on Phu Quoc Island.
• Foreigners entering Vietnam through an international port (by air or sea) and transiting to Phu Quoc without leaving the transit area at the international port.

These policies make it easy for you to plan your trips to Phu Quoc Island visa-free for up to 30 days, without worrying about obtaining a visa for visits. The exemption is part of Vietnam’s efforts to boost tourism in Phu Quoc, attracting international visitors to its beautiful beaches, inviting climate, and a plethora of exciting activities. The “Pearl Island” promises unforgettable experiences for all travelers.

>> Phu Quoc offers a special visa exemption for travelers staying up to 30 days, making it an easy destination to visit. If you're planning your trip and also wondering where is Phu Quoc, our article provides all the details about its location and why it's a must-visit island in Vietnam.

2. Do You Need a Visa to Go to Phu Quoc for More than 30 Days?

As mentioned above, if you plan to stay in Phu Quoc for more than 30 days, you must apply for a visa extension or exit Vietnam.

Below are the documents required and steps for a visa extension:

2.1. Required Documents

To extend your visa, you’ll need:

• A valid passport, intact and with at least six months of remaining validity.
• Recent passport-sized photos (4x6 cm, white background, 70–80% face coverage, taken within the last six months).
• A visa application form (available on the official immigration website, fully completed).
• A return ticket or onward ticket to another country as proof of intent to leave Vietnam after the extension.
• Additional documents, depending on the visa type or application method (e.g., invitation letters, sponsorship letters).

The visa extension process requires you to prepare all necessary documents.

• Image source: Pixabay

2.2. Steps to Apply for a Visa Extension

Follow these steps to ensure a smooth visa extension process:

Step 1: Prepare the documents 

Gather all required materials as above, including your passport, photos, visa application form, and supporting documents

Step 2: Submit your application

As Phu Quoc does not have a visa extension office, you must submit your documents at the Immigration Department in Ho Chi Minh City. You can:

• Submit them directly in person.
• Send them via post or use a visa agent if you cannot visit Ho Chi Minh City. Ensure your documents are secure and trackable.

Step 3: Wait for processing 

The processing time usually takes 7–10 days but may be longer in special cases. You can contact the Immigration Department for updates on your application status.

Step 4: Receive the results

In-person collection: Visit Ho Chi Minh City to collect your extended passport.

Through an agent: If you used an agent, your passport will be sent directly to Phu Quoc for your convenience.

You cannot directly extend your visa in Phu Quoc. - Image source: Pixabay

Note:

• Begin the visa extension process at least 14 days before your visa expires to avoid complications caused by an expired visa.
• The Phu Quoc visa extension is only possible if you have not violated any laws or regulations regarding residence and entry in Vietnam.
• If your extension request is unsuccessful, you must leave Vietnam and can return once you meet the required entry conditions.

>> Curious about the size of Vietnam’s stunning island getaway? Phu Quoc is the largest island in the country, offering breathtaking beaches and lush landscapes. To learn more about its exact dimensions and what makes it special, check out our full article on how big is Phu Quoc Island.

3. FAQs

3.1. Am I exempt from a visa if I transit through an international airport in Vietnam?

Yes. If you transit through Vietnam's international airports and remain within the transit area before continuing your journey to Phu Quoc, you are eligible for the 30-day visa-free policy.

With a 30-day visa exemption for travelers, Phu Quoc sounds like the perfect escape — but how expensive is phu quoc island

3.2. Do I need visa to go to Phu Quoc from Cambodia or Laos by land/river?

Yes. If you enter Phu Quoc via land or river borders from Cambodia or Laos, you will need a Vietnamese visa. The 30-day visa-free policy only applies to international air or sea arrivals.

3.3. Are children exempt from a visa to Phu Quoc?

Yes. Children can enjoy visa-free entry if they meet the following conditions:

• Traveling with parents or legal guardians.
• Holding a passport valid for at least six months.

Phu Quoc is a popular destination for travelers from all over the world. - Image source: Pixabay

In conclusion, the question "Do I need a visa to visit Phu Quoc?" has been thoroughly addressed.  A 30-day visa-free policy makes Phu Quoc Island an ideal destination for international tourists. If you plan to stay longer, ensure you prepare all necessary documents for a visa extension at least 14 days before your exemption expires.

Looking for a reliable visa extension service? Contact Joytime, a trusted brand offering comprehensive travel, visa and transportation services, committed to delivering the best experiences for all travelers.