Vietnam visa for Antarctic residents: How to apply online

Vietnam is home to rich culture, beautiful natural landscapes, and UNESCO World Heritage Sites such as Ha Long Bay and Hoi An Ancient Town. If you’re a resident of Antarctica planning to explore this Southeast Asian gem, it’s important to secure a valid visa in advance.

Below is a step-by-step guide to help Antarctic residents understand Vietnam visa requirements, how to apply, fees involved, and tips for a smooth entry.

Do Antarctic residents need a visa to enter Vietnam?

Yes, Antarctica is not on the Vietnam visa exemption list, so a valid visa is REQUIRED before traveling to Vietnam.

Although Antarctica has no permanent population or citizenship (only research personnel from various countries reside there temporarily), travelers with residency or origin from Antarctic bases will be required to use the passport of their home country.

Therefore, applicants should refer to the Vietnam visa rules based on their nationality, not just geographic residence in Antarctica.

How to apply for a Vietnam visa from Antarctica

Since there is no Vietnamese Embassy or Consulate in Antarctica, Antarctic residents can choose from the following two options:

Option 1: Apply for a Vietnam eVisa (Recommended)

Most travelers based in Antarctica can apply online using the Vietnam Immigration Department's eVisa system, as long as they hold passports from eligible countries.

Option 2: Apply via the Vietnam Embassy in Neighboring Countries

If you're currently stationed in or traveling through a nearby country (e.g., Chile, New Zealand, or Argentina), you can visit the Vietnamese Embassy or Consulate in person and apply for a sticker visa.

Step-by-Step: Apply for a Vietnam eVisa Online

The Vietnam eVisa application process is quick and easy:

Step 1: Prepare Required Documents

• A valid passport with at least 6 months’ validity and 2 blank pages
• A scanned copy of the passport’s bio page
• A recent passport-sized photo (white background, no glasses, formal attire)
• A valid email address for visa confirmation
• A credit/debit card or PayPal for online payment

Step 2: Submit Your Application Online

Access the official eVisa portal or a trusted Vietnam visa service provider.

Fill in personal information, travel dates, and port of entry.

Upload documents and photos as required.

Step 3: Pay the Visa Fee

Pay the Service Fee and the Government Fee (explained below).

Step 4: Receive and Print Your Visa

You will receive your eVisa via email within 1–5 business days.

Print a copy and carry it along with your passport when entering Vietnam.

Additional tips for Antarctic Visa Applicants

Always verify which passport nationality you’re applying under. Antarctic residency alone doesn’t qualify as a nationality.

• Confirm that your point of entry into Vietnam supports eVisa entry.
• Do not overstay your visa—violations may lead to fines or blacklisting.
• Track your visa status online using your application code.

If traveling through a third country en route to Vietnam, check transit visa requirements for that country.

Travel insurance & health tips

Traveling from remote regions like Antarctica requires careful preparation. It’s highly recommended to purchase Vietnam travel insurance, which may cover:

• Emergency evacuations
• Medical expenses
• Flight disruptions
• Lost or stolen belongings

Additionally, check Vietnam’s latest health protocols, including any vaccination or entry form requirements (especially post-pandemic).

Need help with your Vietnam visa application?

If you have any questions about:

• Which passport should you use
• Whether you’re eligible for an eVisa
• How to apply from Antarctica or a nearby country

Feel free to contact Vietnam Immigration Services via email or live chat. Our team is ready to support even the most remote travelers—from the South Pole to Saigon.

Conclusion

Although Antarctica isn’t a sovereign nation, travelers based there can still easily apply for a Vietnam visa using their national passport. With online eVisa options, fast processing times, and no need to visit an embassy, it’s never been easier to explore the wonders of Vietnam - even from the ends of the Earth.