Vietnam Considers Expanding Visa Exemptions to More Countries

In a bid to revitalize its tourism sector, Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh has instructed the Ministry of Public Security to explore the possibility of extending visa exemptions for citizens of selected countries, aligning with bilateral cooperation efforts.

This directive comes as Vietnam aims to welcome approximately 18 million foreign visitors in 2024, a target on par with pre-pandemic levels.

Review of Visa Policies

Following the Lunar New Year break, Prime Minister Chinh’s directive, issued on Thursday, underscores the government’s commitment to facilitating smoother travel processes. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs has been tasked with assessing the viability of unilateral visa exemption policies for citizens of 13 specific countries.

Expanding Visa Exemption List

In collaboration, the ministries of foreign affairs and public security have been urged to expand the roster of nations whose citizens benefit from unilateral visa exemptions.

Currently, this list includes countries such as

• Germany
• France
• Italy
• Spain
• The United Kingdom
• Russia
• Japan
• South Korea
• Denmark
• Sweden
• Norway
• Finland
• Belarus

Enhancing Competitiveness in Tourism

Vietnam’s move to reassess its visa policies reflects a broader trend among Asian nations striving to enhance their competitiveness in the global tourism arena.

While Vietnam currently offers visa-free entry to travellers from 25 countries, this pales in comparison to neighbouring countries like Malaysia and Singapore, which grant such privileges to 162 nations.

Proposed Visa-Waiver for India and China

Notably, in the previous year, the Vietnamese Minister for Culture, Sports, and Tourism suggested a temporary visa waiver for tourists from India and China. Vietnam’s contemplation of visa waivers for Indian and Chinese nationals aligns with a broader trend among Asian nations, aiming to boost tourism by facilitating visa-free entry.

Current Immigration Policy

Under Vietnam’s existing immigration regulations, three-month tourist visas are available to citizens from all countries and territories. Additionally, the government recently started issuing  90-day e-visas with multiple entries with a visa-free stay duration of 45 days for citizens of the 13 countries benefiting from unilateral visa exemptions.

Conclusion

By proactively reassessing its visa policies and considering expansions, Vietnam aims to position itself as a more attractive destination for international visitors, thereby stimulating economic growth and revitalizing its tourism industry.