The Immigration Management Office of the Hanoi Police Department has issued a warning to all foreign nationals to ensure their visas are valid before and upon entry into Vietnam, following a recent overstaying incident involving a British citizen.

Authorities emphasized that travelers must check both the type of visa and the duration of stay as stamped in their passports on arrival. Visitors should also monitor their visa expiry dates to avoid accidental overstays, which can result in legal penalties.

The warning comes after S.D.T.J, a British national temporarily residing in Tay Ho District, failed to present his electronic visa (e-visa) upon arrival at Noi Bai International Airport. Though he had a valid e-visa from February 3 to April 24, 2025, he mistakenly believed the visa information was already in the immigration system and did not show it during entry procedures.

Instead, he was admitted under Vietnam’s unilateral visa exemption policy and granted a temporary stay until March 16, 2025. Unaware of the discrepancy, he overstayed his permitted stay, assuming his e-visa was still valid.

According to Clause 4, Point d, Article 18 of Decree No. 144/2021/ND-CP, foreign nationals who overstay their visas by 30 to under 60 days may face administrative fines ranging from VND 5–10 million (approximately US$192–385), and possible deportation.

Authorities urge all foreign visitors to comply strictly with immigration regulations to avoid legal issues during their stay in Vietnam.

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