The Embassy of India in Vietnam has issued an advisory to Indian nationals traveling to the country, urging caution on two major concerns – visa rules for Phu Quoc Island and risks associated with losing passports while travelling.
Phu Quoc Island has emerged as a popular destination due to its visa-free entry policy for some foreign nationals, including Indians. However, the embassy warned that the exemption comes with strict restrictions.
According to the advisory, visa-free access is restricted to Phu Quoc Island and entry into mainland Vietnam is not permitted. This means that Indian travelers cannot visit cities like Ho Chi Minh City or Hanoi without a valid Vietnamese visa.
The embassy warned of the possibility of complications arising in unexpected situations. Travelers may be required to leave the island due to medical emergencies, flight interruptions, or other urgent reasons. In such cases, those who do not have a valid visa for Vietnam may face significant challenges.
This may include delays in obtaining medical care, restrictions on movement and immigration-related complications.
“In light of the above, Indian citizens are advised to obtain an appropriate Vietnamese visa before traveling to Phu Quoc, even if their itinerary is limited to the island,” the advisory read.
She added that those who choose to travel without a visa should be prepared for potential immigration issues if they are required to travel off the island.
Loss of passport may delay return
The embassy also stated that Indian citizens lost their passports while traveling to Vietnam. In such cases, travelers should immediately file a police complaint in the jurisdiction where the passport was lost. This document must subsequently be submitted to the Embassy of India in Hanoi or the Consulate General of India in Ho Chi Minh City.
The warning noted that Indian authorities are making efforts to issue emergency certificates or travel documents as soon as possible, often on the same day of receiving the application.
However, even after obtaining emergency travel documents, travelers must wait for exit authorization from Vietnamese authorities. This process takes three to five business days, although it may take longer in some cases.
During this period, Indian citizens are required to remain in Vietnam until the necessary permission is granted.
