The Embassy of India in Vietnam has issued an advisory for Indian nationals travelling to Phu Quoc Island in Vietnam, highlighting important visa requirements and procedural guidelines in case of emergencies or loss of passports.
Phu Quoc currently offers visa-free entry for certain foreign nationals, including Indians, subject to specific conditions. However, the exemption is strictly limited to travel within Phu Quoc Island and does not permit entry into mainland Vietnam.
Authorities have noted that in situations such as medical emergencies or flight disruptions, travellers may be required to travel to mainland cities such as Ho Chi Minh City or Hanoi. In such cases, Indian nationals without a valid Vietnam visa may face challenges, including delays in accessing medical services, travel restrictions and immigration-related complications.
Travellers are therefore advised to obtain an appropriate Vietnam visa prior to travel, even if their itinerary is limited to Phu Quoc Island. Those travelling without a visa should be aware of potential complications if required to enter mainland Vietnam under unforeseen circumstances.
The advisory also addresses incidents involving the loss of Indian passports in Vietnam. In such cases, travellers are required to immediately file a police complaint in the relevant jurisdiction, which must be submitted to the Embassy of India in Hanoi or the Consulate General of India in Ho Chi Minh City.
Authorities noted that emergency travel documents are generally issued on the same day of application. However, obtaining an exit permit from Vietnamese authorities may take between three to five working days, and in some cases longer. During this period, travellers are required to remain in Vietnam until the exit permit is granted.
