Thailand visa for Vietnamese citizens
Vietnamese citizens enter Thailand visa-free for up to 30 days under a bilateral agreement, which continued after Thailand’s September 2026 reform of its general visa-free stay. The arrival day counts as day 1.
Overland through Laos and Cambodia
Many Vietnamese travellers reach Thailand by bus through Laos or Cambodia. The yearly land-entry limit in the new rules applies to the unilateral exemption; bilateral agreements are separate, so check with the Thai embassy if you cross often.
We are confirming the terms of the agreement with official sources. The date stamped in your passport is the one that counts.
Working in Thailand
The exemption is for visits only. Work needs a visa and a work permit arranged with the employer.
Before you travel
- Passport valid well beyond your stay
- Return or onward ticket and your first hotel booking
- The free TDAC arrival card
Worked example
Vietnamese citizens arriving on Tuesday, 1 December 2026 can stay until Wednesday, 30 December 2026: 30 days, counting the arrival day as day 1. This passport may also qualify for the one-time 30-day extension (conditions on nationality apply), which would move the last day to Friday, 29 January 2027. Leaving two days after the last legal day would mean an overstay fine of 1,000 baht at departure.
Your last legal day
Choose your passport and entry date to see your last legal day.
Questions from Vietnamese citizens
Do Vietnamese citizens need a visa for Thailand?
Not for a short visit, under the bilateral agreement.
How long can I stay?
Use the calculator on this page with your entry date.
Can I work on the visa exemption?
No. Work needs the right visa and a work permit.
Do I need the TDAC by land?
Yes. The TDAC is required for arrivals by land, air and sea.
What if I stay longer than allowed?
You pay an overstay fine per day when you leave, and long overstays can lead to a ban on returning. Use the calculator to check your last day.
Sources
Last verified:
- Tourism Authority of Thailand: bilateral arrangements continue
- Ministry of Foreign Affairs: visa measures from 15 September 2026
- Ministry of Foreign Affairs: visa exemption summary (PDF)
- Official Thai e-Visa site
For information only, not legal advice. The immigration officer at your port of entry makes the final decision. ThaiSpend is an independent site and is not affiliated with Thai Immigration or any government agency. Spotted an error? Tell us.