Vietnam’s Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh has suggested waiving visa requirements for a number of countries in an effort to increase travel. In an effort to increase Vietnam’s appeal as a vacation destination amid fierce competition in Southeast Asia, the PM has directed the ministries of foreign affairs and public security to investigate this idea.
Vietnam Plans Visa Waiver Expansion to Draw Tourists: 10 Key Points To Know
- Vietnam’s Visa Waiver Proposal: Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh has proposed waiving visa requirements for several countries to boost tourism.
- Inter-Ministry Coordination: The PM has directed the ministries of foreign affairs and public security to explore this idea and work together on the proposal.
- Current Visa Waivers: Vietnam currently waives visa requirements for visitors from 25 nations, fewer than many of its Southeast Asian neighbors.
- Regional Competition: Neighboring countries like Malaysia, Singapore, the Philippines, and Thailand have more extensive visa-free policies, which Vietnam aims to match.
- Recent Changes: Since August 2023, citizens from 13 countries, including Germany, France, Italy, Spain, the UK, Russia, Japan, South Korea, and several Nordic countries, can enter Vietnam without a visa for up to 45 days.
- Tourism Goals: Vietnam aims to welcome 18 million foreign tourists by the end of the year, despite only receiving 8.8 million in the first half of 2024, a 4% decrease from pre-pandemic levels.
- Economic Impact: The proposal is part of Vietnam’s broader strategy to enhance its competitiveness in the global travel industry.
- Neighboring Nations’ Moves: The proposal aligns with actions by neighboring countries like Thailand and Indonesia, which are also expanding their visa-free travel policies.
- Future Announcements: Specific countries for potential visa exemptions have not been disclosed yet, but further details are anticipated from the Ministries of Foreign Affairs and Public Security.
- Vietnam’s Appeal: Vietnam offers a unique travel experience with its stunning landscapes, vibrant cities, rich cultural heritage, historical sites, delicious cuisine, and warm hospitality, making it a compelling destination for international tourists.
In a recent meeting with Vietnamese envoys overseas, Prime Minister Chinh underscored the need to rationalize visa applications. He called on ministries to work together to waive visa requirements for visitors from a list of nations, making it simpler for them to visit Vietnam.
“The Ministry of Public Security, in coordination with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, should consider visa waivers for several countries,”
Prime Minister Chinh
This action is in line with Vietnam’s overarching objective of becoming more competitive in the world travel industry.
Currently, Vietnam waives visa requirements for visitors from 25 nations, which is less than most of its neighbors in the area. For example, nationals of 162 countries may enter Malaysia and Singapore without a visa, 157 from the Philippines, and 93 from Thailand.
Vietnam’s move coincides with neighboring nations like Thailand extending their visa-free travel regulations and Indonesia preparing to launch visa-free travel to other locations by October.
At the moment, visitors from all nations and territories are granted a three-month tourist visa to Vietnam. Citizens of 13 countries—including major travel destinations like Germany, France, Italy, Spain, the UK, Russia, Japan, South Korea, and numerous Nordic countries—have been able to enter the country without a visa for up to 45 days starting in August 2023.
Also Read: Japan Simplifies Entry for Tourists with New Preclearance System
Vietnam hopes to welcome 18 million foreign tourists by the end of the year, even though it only welcomed 8.8 million foreign visitors in the first half of 2024—a 4% decrease from pre-pandemic levels.
Although the precise nations for possible visa exemptions have not been revealed, Vietnam’s proactive approach highlights its determination to revive its tourism industry and draw in more international tourists. Travel lovers and stakeholders anxiously anticipate further announcements from the Ministries of Foreign Affairs and Public Security.
Travel to Vietnam
Travel to Vietnam provides a mesmerizing combination of beautiful scenery, energetic cities, and a rich cultural legacy. Vietnam entices tourists with its rich history, delectable food, and kind hospitality, from the historic beauty of Hoi An’s lantern-lit alleyways to the stunning Halong Bay and vibrant Ho Chi Minh City.
Check Latest Stories:
