Vietnam Considers Visa-Free Travel for India, Other Countries

In a bid to enhance tourism, Vietnam is considering the possibility of allowing visa-free travel for Indian nationals.

Nguyen Van Hung, the Vietnamese Minister for Culture, Sports, and Tourism, has proposed a short-term visa waiver for both Indian and Chinese tourists to stimulate the country’s tourism sector.

Visa-Free Proposal in High-Level Meeting

The proposal for visa waivers for Indian and Chinese nationals was discussed in a meeting chaired by Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh.

Minister Nguyen Van Hung suggested extending the visa-free privilege to tourists not only from India and China but also from key countries, including Australia, Canada, the United States, and all 27 member states of the European Union.

Current Visa-Free Status in Vietnam

Currently, Vietnam permits visa-free travel for tourists from select European Union countries, such as Germany, France, Italy, Spain, Denmark, Finland, and Sweden.

If the proposal is accepted, India and China will likely be added to this list, facilitating smoother entry for their citizens. As of October 2023, Vietnam has welcomed over 10 million foreign visitors.

It is important to mention here that since mid-August, Vietnam has been issuing 90-day e-visas with multiple entries to individuals worldwide. Notably, citizens from the 13 visa-exempt countries now enjoy a threefold extension, allowing them to stay for up to 45 days.

Impact on Tourism

If implemented, the proposed visa waiver program for Indian and Chinese citizens could have a substantial impact on Vietnam’s tourism sector.

With its rich cultural heritage, stunning natural beauty, and rapidly developing infrastructure, Vietnam holds immense potential to attract tourists from these emerging markets.

The visa waiver program would not only increase the number of visitors but also extend their average stay duration, leading to a boost in tourism revenue and economic growth.

India’s Visa-Free Access to Thailand and Sri Lanka

This consideration by Vietnam follows recent moves by other Asian countries to promote tourism through visa-free entry.

Thailand, for instance, has opened its doors to Indian travellers without the need for a visa. According to the official statement from the Thai government, this policy is in effect from November 10, 2023, to May 10, 2024, allowing Indians to stay for a maximum of 30 days.

Similarly, Sri Lanka has implemented a visa-free entry program for Indians, valid until March 31, 2024. This initiative aims to rejuvenate the tourism industry, which faced challenges in the aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic.

As countries adapt to the changing landscape of global travel, these measures signal a concerted effort to revive and sustain the tourism sector, fostering international collaboration and cultural exchange.