Home Arrow FAQ Arrow Do I have to declare my past violation history from a long time ago during my previous entry?

Do I have to declare my past violation history from a long time ago during my previous entry?

People who want to visit Vietnam often wonder if they have to declare any previous violations when they apply for a visa. The requirements change depending on the violation and what is required in the visa application. Here’s a quick look at the current situation and the important points to remember.

What is considered a "violation history"?

Immigration authorities will look at any past mistakes, for example, if you stayed too long in Vietnam, worked without a permit, committed crimes, or violated other laws in the country or elsewhere. If you were found guilty of a severe crime or it happened recently, you might have to mention it in your current visa application.

Declaring past violations:

  1. Visa application form:
    Even if the eVisa application form does not explicitly ask about past violations, immigration authorities may access your prior immigration history using internal databases. Most of the time, you are supposed to give an honest answer to this question. You should mention any past violations, even if they happened a while ago and are still important (for example, not leaving the country in time after your visa expired), because not doing so could stop you from entering or cause your application to be turned down.
  2. Minor violations:
    Provided you stayed a few days over your visa and have followed all the other rules since, you should be admitted to Vietnam. Should someone ask you about the breach of the law, you must tell the truth. In Vietnam and many other countries, people applying for visas are required to be completely truthful to comply with immigration rules.
  3. Serious violations:
    If the violation includes being involved in crime or a major immigration issue (such as being deported), you must include it on the visa application. If you commit a serious violation, your visa may not be approved and you could be banned from entering.
  4. Long time ago:
    Even if your violation was committed a long time ago and is not expected to influence your current life, you might still need to mention it on your application. If you have fixed the issue (such as by paying your fines or meeting legal obligations) this might help the police understand your case. If you’re uncertain, it’s always safer to reveal your history of violations than to try hiding them.

Notes: 

  • Even if the application form does not explicitly ask about prior violations, immigration authorities may still access past records during the background check process. 
  • Previous immigration violations are often recorded in Vietnam's internal systems, regardless of when they occurred. Failure to disclose when required may result in visa denial or future entry bans.
  • Tourists or individuals visiting for short-term business purposes may use an eVisa. However, work-related purposes such as employment or long-term assignments require a different visa category.

What happens if you don’t declare a past violation?

Failing to disclose a past violation might result in your visa being refused, or you may not be allowed into Vietnam. Telling lies on your application might stop you from getting visas in the future as well.

Conclusion: Violation history

While Vietnam’s eVisa process is straightforward, applicants with any previous immigration violations should be aware that immigration authorities can review their past history. If you are unsure whether to disclose something, it’s better to seek advice than risk rejection. Transparency is key to avoiding future entry issues.

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