On October 13, 2026, Russian President Vladimir Putin signed Decree No. 730, introducing a visa exemption policy for Vietnamese citizens. The policy is set to take effect on October 15, 2026, and will remain in force until October 15, 2027.
Here are the main points travelers should know:
Eligible travelers: Vietnamese citizens holding ordinary passports.
Maximum stay: Up to 30 days.
Policy validity: October 15, 2026, to October 15, 2027.
Eligible travel purposes: Tourism, family and friend visits, business trips, transit, and participation in certain events and activities, subject to the decree's conditions.
Excluded purposes: Employment, education, and long-term residence in Russia.
Before making travel arrangements, visitors should check that their travel purpose and dates meet the policy requirements. Those planning to travel after October 15, 2027, should verify the latest entry regulations before booking flights or accommodation.
Red Square in Moscow, one of Russia's most iconic destinations.
Vietnamese citizens visiting relatives or friends in Russia, as well as those undertaking business trips covered by the policy, may also qualify for visa-free entry.
However, it is important to distinguish between short-term business visits and employment in Russia. Not every activity related to work automatically qualifies for visa exemption.
Under the policy, participation in certain scientific, cultural, political, social, economic, and sporting events is also included among the permitted purposes.
This is relevant for travelers planning to attend international sporting events, including golf-related events, where their travel arrangements meet the applicable conditions. Participants should still check the specific event requirements and any additional formalities before departure.
The visa exemption does not apply to every Vietnamese citizen in every situation. Eligibility is limited by the purpose of travel, and certain categories remain outside the policy.
If your trip involves multiple purposes or does not clearly fall within the permitted categories, confirm the applicable requirements with the relevant authorities before booking flights or finalizing your itinerary.
Visa exemption does not guarantee automatic entry into Russia. Travelers must still comply with immigration regulations and satisfy any checks conducted at the border.
Before departure, it is advisable to review and prepare the following:
These are recommended preparations rather than a uniform list of mandatory documents for every traveler. Actual requirements may depend on individual circumstances and the regulations in effect at the time of travel.
You should also plan your stay carefully. The 30-day limit is the maximum period specified under the policy; it should not be interpreted as an unlimited right to stay or an automatic entitlement to an extension.
For trips that qualify for visa-free entry, Vietnamese travelers do not need to complete the Russian visa application process before departure. This removes one step from the travel preparation process and may make planning more straightforward.
Travelers can plan itineraries that include exploring cities, visiting historic landmarks, experiencing local culture, or attending events within the permitted period of stay.
For people interested in sports and experiential travel, understanding entry requirements early can also help make the planning process clearer and more manageable.
Simplifying short-term travel procedures may support family visits, cultural exchange, business connections, and participation in events between Vietnam and Russia.
However, visa exemption only simplifies the visa process. Travelers should still budget for flights, accommodation, travel insurance, local transportation, and other expenses throughout their trip.
Before departure, review these four key points:
1. Check the validity period: The policy is scheduled to apply from October 15, 2026, through October 15, 2027. If your trip falls outside this period, check the latest regulations.
2. Confirm your travel purpose: Tourism, visiting family and friends, business, and certain specified activities may qualify for visa-free entry. Employment, study, and long-term residence are excluded from this exemption.
3. Verify official entry requirements: Consult the Russian diplomatic mission or relevant authorities before departure, especially if your itinerary is complex.
4. Stay within the permitted period: The maximum stay specified by the policy is 30 days. Plan your itinerary accordingly and check the applicable rules if you need to change your travel dates.
The policy takes effect on October 15, 2026, and is scheduled to remain valid until October 15, 2027.
Eligible travelers may stay for up to 30 days, provided their trip meets the policy's conditions and permitted purposes.
No. Travelers entering Russia for employment are not covered by this visa exemption and must check the relevant visa and work permit requirements.
No. Travelers entering Russia for educational purposes are not covered by the exemption described in this policy.
No. Visa exemption means eligible travelers do not need to obtain a visa under the applicable policy. They must still comply with immigration regulations and any checks conducted at the border.
This cannot be confirmed without an official announcement extending the policy or introducing new regulations. Travelers planning to visit Russia after that date should check the rules in effect at the time of departure.
International travel offers opportunities to discover new destinations, experience local cultures, and pursue personal interests. For golfers, planning a trip also involves considering destinations, transportation, and suitable golf experiences.
My Golf Tours helps golf enthusiasts explore golf travel opportunities and discover destinations through their own interests. If you are planning an international trip, make sure to review entry regulations, permitted lengths of stay, and other relevant requirements before departure so you can prepare with greater confidence.
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Disclaimer: This article is intended for informational purposes only. Immigration and entry policies may change. Travelers should verify the latest official requirements before making their trip.
