Vietnam is fast becoming a top destination for medical tourism. Whether you’re seeking cosmetic procedures, dental care, or advanced therapies such as stem cell treatment, it’s essential to understand the visa options before planning your trip. From visa exemptions to e‑visas and extensions, this guide covers everything medical travelers need to know in 2026.
2. Visa Options for Medical Tourists
Tourist Visa (DL)
Valid for 30 days
Easy to obtain online or via agencies
Suitable for short-term treatments
Requires extension for longer recovery
E-Visa
Available to citizens of over 80 countries
Applied online, valid up to 90 days (single or multiple entry)
Ideal for longer treatments and recovery
Visa Exemption
Vietnam offers 45-day visa-free entry to citizens of 24 countries as of August 2026
Best for quick medical check-ups or minor procedures
Not suitable for extended treatments
Visa Extension
Possible for current visa holders
Extend for 1–3 months via immigration or service agencies
Useful for ongoing treatments or recovery
3. Countries Eligible for 45-Day Visa Exemption (2026)
| Group | Countries |
|---|---|
| Previously exempt (early 2026) | Germany, France, Italy, Spain, United Kingdom, Russia, Japan, South Korea, Denmark, Sweden, Norway, Finland |
| Newly added (from 15 Aug 2025 – 14 Aug 2028) | Belgium, Bulgaria, Croatia, Czech Republic, Hungary, Luxembourg, Netherlands, Poland, Romania, Slovakia, Slovenia, Switzerland |
Total: 24 countries currently eligible for 45-day visa-free travel
4. Visa Comparison Table for Medical Tourists
| Visa Type | Duration | Eligibility | Application Method | Best For | Limitations |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Tourist Visa (DL) | 30 days | Most countries | Online or via agency | Short dental or cosmetic visits | Needs extension if longer |
| E-Visa | Up to 90 days | 80+ countries | Online, government portal | Surgery + recovery stays | Application prep required |
| Visa Exemption | 45 days | 24 countries (see list) | Automatic at entry | Quick consultations/check-ups | No extension, not for major treatments |
| Visa Extension | +1–3 months | Current visa holders | Immigration or agencies | Long-term treatments or rehab | Extra cost & approval needed |
5. Why It Matters for Medical Travelers
Short-term treatment: Visa exemption is suitable if you’re from an eligible country and need under 45 days.
Lengthy procedures: E-Visa or Tourist Visa (with extension) are best.
Maximum flexibility: The 45-day exemption makes Vietnam highly accessible for European patients.
Vietnam Visa Guide for Medical Travelers in 2026 – Overview of tourist visa, e-visa, visa exemption, and extension options.
6. Suggested Visuals
Patient being consulted by a Vietnamese doctor
Caption: International medical traveler in consultation.
Alt-text: Foreign patient consulting doctor in Vietnam.Comparative chart of Vietnam’s visa types and durations
Caption: Vietnam visa options for medical tourists in 2026.
Alt-text: Table comparing e-visa, tourist visa, visa exemptions.Vietnamese visa stamp on passport
Caption: Medical tourist’s passport with Vietnam entry stamp.
Alt-text: Passport showing Vietnam visa exemption entry.
7. Conclusion
For medical travelers, a clear understanding of Vietnam’s visa policy — including the 45-day exemption for 24 nations, e-visa options, and extensions — is vital. This knowledge ensures smooth access to treatment and peace of mind.
With easier entry and longer stays now possible, Vietnam is even more attractive for healthcare trips. Partnering with MedtourVietnam (Medicaltourism.vn) will ensure seamless visa and medical arrangements so you can focus on what matters most: your health.
FAQ – Vietnam Visa for Medical Tourists (Updated)
1. Can I travel to Vietnam for medical treatment with a tourist visa?
Yes. Most medical travelers enter Vietnam on a tourist visa or e-visa. Hospitals accept patients with tourist visas, and you can extend your stay if needed for recovery.
2. Which countries can enter Vietnam without a visa in 2026?
As of August 2026, Vietnam offers a 45-day visa exemption to citizens of 24 countries, including Japan, South Korea, Russia, the UK, most EU countries, and 12 newly added European nations such as Belgium, the Netherlands, and Switzerland.
3. How long does it take to get a Vietnam e-visa?
Processing usually takes 3–5 working days after submitting your online application. You should apply at least one week before your planned arrival.
4. Where can I apply for a Vietnam e-visa?
You can apply directly through the official government portal: https://evisa.xuatnhapcanh.gov.vn.
5. Can I extend my visa if my medical treatment takes longer?
Yes. Vietnam allows visa extensions for 1–3 months. Hospitals or medical tourism agencies (like MedtourVietnam) can assist with extension applications.
6. What documents do I need for a medical trip to Vietnam?
A valid passport (6+ months validity)
E-visa or visa exemption (depending on nationality)
Medical records or referral letters (recommended)
Travel insurance covering medical treatment (optional but highly advised)
7. Is “medical visa” available in Vietnam?
Currently, Vietnam does not issue a separate medical visa. Foreign patients typically use tourist visas, e-visas, or visa exemptions for medical travel.