Foreign Minister Nguyen Duy Nien signed yesterday a temporary regulation that exempts visitors who are holders of passports issued by Japan and the Republic of Korea from entry and exit visas.

The decision stipulates that as of July 1, all Japanese and RoK passport holders are allowed to enter Vietnam without entry and exit visas, provided that their stay in Vietnam does not exceed 15 days.

The passports must also have at least three months’ validity and contain no restrictions regarding Vietnam. In addition, tourists need to present their return tickets or tickets to a third destination.

Those wanting to stay longer than 15-day period can obtain an extension permit or visa grant, provided that their reasons are legitimate. They must also be backed by Vietnamese entities, which will send a written request to the Immigration Department of the Public Security Ministry or the Consulate Department of the Foreign Ministry.

In February 1998, Vietnam and the RoK signed an agreement exempting diplomatic and official passports issued by the two governments from entry and exit visas.