Vietnam to Syria visa requirements

Yes, a visa is required. Vietnam is on Syria's restricted-nationality list, so Vietnamese ordinary passport holders cannot simply get a visa on arrival. They must obtain advance visa approval (a security clearance / approval letter) before travelling, then pay the visa fee in cash USD on arrival. As of mid-2026, Syria does not offer a straightforward visa-on-arrival or self-service eVisa to Vietnamese ordinary passport holders. Vietnam is explicitly listed among the "restricted" nationalities that must secure advance visa approval (security clearance / approval letter) from Syrian authorities before travel, regardless of whether they fly into Damascus/Aleppo or cross a land border from Lebanon or Jordan. This pre-approval is normally arranged through a licensed Syrian tour operator (or a Syrian diplomatic mission) and typically takes about 3-4 working weeks. Airlines will not board passengers to Syria without the approval letter. Once approved, the actual visa fee is paid in cash US dollars at the point of entry. Syria's previous eVisa platform is no longer operational, so there is no online application portal for tourists. A critical, absolute rule applies: any sign of travel to Israel (Israeli stamps/visas, or Egypt/Jordan crossing stamps with Israel) or holding Israeli nationality results in refusal of entry. Note that many governments, including foreign ministries, advise against all travel to Syria for security reasons; this guide covers entry rules only, not safety.