Table of Contents
Information on the requirements, exemptions, and application process for Vietnam's diplomatic (NG1, NG3) and official (NG2, NG4) visas in 2026.
Overview of Diplomatic and Official Visas
In Vietnam, diplomatic and official visas are designated with the codes NG1, NG2, NG3, and NG4. These visas are issued exclusively to foreign nationals based on their diplomatic status, official government duties, or affiliation with recognized international organizations. While standard electronic visas (eVisas) are valid for a maximum of 90 days, NG visas may be issued with a validity of up to 12 months, depending on the nature of the official mission.
Diplomatic and official visas are not processed through the standard eVisa system on the National Web Portal on Immigration. Applications require official diplomatic correspondence.
NG Visa Classifications
The Vietnamese government classifies diplomatic and official missions into four distinct visa categories:
- NG1: Issued to members of delegations invited by high-level Vietnamese state leaders, including the General Secretary of the Communist Party, the President, the Chairman of the National Assembly, or the Prime Minister.
- NG2: Issued to members of delegations invited by other senior officials, such as the Deputy Prime Minister, ministers, or provincial leaders.
- NG3: Issued to members of diplomatic missions, consular offices, representative offices of international organizations, and their immediate family members (spouses and children under 18).
- NG4: Issued to individuals working with diplomatic missions or international organizations in a supporting or administrative capacity, as well as their visiting relatives.
Visa Exemptions for Diplomatic and Official Passports
Vietnam maintains bilateral agreements with numerous countries that permit visa-free entry for holders of diplomatic or official passports. The permitted duration of stay under these exemptions typically ranges from 30 to 90 days, governed by the specific terms of the bilateral treaty.
If the duration of the official assignment exceeds the exempted period, or if no bilateral agreement exists between Vietnam and the passport-issuing country, travelers must secure the appropriate NG visa prior to entry. Travelers are advised to verify their exemption status directly with the nearest Vietnamese embassy or consulate.
Application Process and Requirements
The application procedure for diplomatic and official visas requires coordination with a sponsoring organization or inviting government agency in Vietnam.
- Official Documentation: A formal diplomatic note (Note Verbale) from the foreign government, embassy, or international organization is required.
- Guaranteeing Agency: The inviting agency in Vietnam must notify and coordinate with the Vietnamese Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA) to obtain clearance.
- Submission: Visa applications, including the valid passport, completed application forms, and standard passport photographs, are typically submitted to a Vietnamese diplomatic mission abroad.
- Processing Time: Standard processing takes between 1 to 5 working days following MOFA approval.
Passports submitted for diplomatic or official visas must possess a minimum of 6 months of remaining validity and contain at least two blank pages.
Requirements for Non-Diplomatic Travelers
Foreign nationals who do not possess a diplomatic or official passport, or who are traveling for personal or commercial reasons, are ineligible for NG visas. These individuals must apply for a standard tourist or business visa.
As of 2026, the Vietnam eVisa is available to citizens of all nationalities. The eVisa permits travel for tourism, business, transit, or medical purposes, and is valid for entry at any of the 83 designated international checkpoints. Fees are standardized at $25 for a single-entry visa and $50 for a multiple-entry visa. Standard processing requires 3-5 working days. Travelers must use the official National Web Portal on Immigration for the application. Review standard eVisa requirements or submit an application.