The Indian Embassy in Hanoi (not Thailand, as initially reported in some media) issued a travel advisory for Indian nationals planning to travel to Vietnam, especially Phu Quoc Island, on April 6, 2026. The alert focuses on two main concerns: strict visa rules for Phu Quoc and procedures to be followed if a passport is lost.
Visa rules for Phu Quoc
Phu Quoc Island currently allows Indian citizens (and citizens of some other countries) visa-free entry for 30 days, provided travelers arrive directly at Phu Quoc International Airport or by approved sea routes from abroad and stay solely on the island. This discount does not apply to mainland Vietnam. Travelers cannot travel to cities such as Ho Chi Minh City or Hanoi without a valid Vietnamese visa (such as an e-Visa).
The advisory cites actual incidents where passengers had to travel to the mainland due to medical emergencies, flight disruptions, or other unexpected problems. Not having a valid visa for the mainland resulted in delays in medical care, travel restrictions, and immigration complications. The Embassy strongly advises Indian nationals to obtain appropriate Vietnamese visas in advance, even if their planned visit is limited to Phu Quoc only, to avoid potential problems.
This is in line with Vietnam’s policy: visa-free access to Phu Quoc is strictly limited to the island only. This exemption is lost when transiting through the mainland or entering the mainland.
Procedure to be followed in case of loss of passport
The advisory also warned about several recent cases of Indian travelers losing passports in Vietnam. In such situations:
– Immediately report the loss of passport to the local police station of the area where the incident occurred.
– Submit the police report at the Indian Embassy in Hanoi or the Indian Consulate General in Ho Chi Minh City.
– The Indian Mission tries to issue an emergency certificate/travel document on the same day.
– However, it takes 3–5 working days (sometimes longer) for Vietnamese authorities to issue an ‘Exit Permit’. Travelers must remain in Vietnam until this permission is granted, which may delay their return.
The Embassy urges travelers to keep photocopies or digital scans of their passport data pages and visa to expedite the process.
key advice
Indian travelers should keep the following in mind:
– Confirm the latest visa rules through official sources (evisa.gov.vn or Indian missions). – For convenience, consider applying for a Vietnamese e-Visa in advance.
– Keep your travel documents safe and be prepared for possible emergencies.
The objective of this advisory is to ensure safe and hassle-free travel. Travelers should keep an eye on updates from the Indian Embassy in Hanoi or Consulate in Ho Chi Minh City as policies may change.
