Vietnam considers Visa Waivers for nationals of wealthy countries

Vietnam, a gem in the heart of Southeast Asia has always been held in high esteem for its breathtaking landscapes, rich history, and vibrant culture. In a bid to boost tourism revival, Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh has instructed immigration authorities to contemplate visa waivers for stays of six to twelve months to travelers from prosperous countries. This move could simplify travel for numerous visitors and greatly enhance global tourism revenue.

The Proposal at a Glance

Vietnam’s tourism industry has shown a significant growth over the past decade; however, due to the severe effect of Covid-19, which brought the global travel industry to a halt. Therefore, Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh is looking at ways to not only recover the previous losses but also to surpass past visitor numbers by expanding the list of countries eligible for unilateral visa exemptions from the existing 13. The countries likely targeted by this policy would include those with high GDP per capita, strong diplomatic relations with Vietnam, and a history of significant inbound tourism to the nation. While the official list of countries has not been released, the PM instructed the agencies to consider nations such as the USA, India and Australia might be on the priority list.

The PM Pham Minh Chinh further directed the agencies to explore the possibility of granting long-term and multiple-entry visas ranging from 12 to 36 months to appeal to affluent retirees from Europe, Northeast Asia, North America, India, and certain Middle Eastern countries. This development occurs as Southeast Asian nations such as Thailand and Malaysia have sparked off a regional tourism race, particularly from China, by implementing visa-free policies.

Implications for Travelers and the Tourism Sector

1. Easier Access and Increased Appeal: Visa exemptions mean less procedures and easier planning for tourists, making Vietnam more attractive compared to other destinations that require pre-arranged visas. This ease of access is expected to appeal particularly to spontaneous travelers and short-term holiday-makers.
2. Economic Enhancement: An increase in tourists directly leads to greater expenditures on accommodations, dining, cultural activities, and shopping. This boost in spending will benefit local enterprises throughout Vietnam, from upscale hotels in Hanoi to beachfront resorts in Phu Quoc.
3. Cultural Exchange: With an increase in visitors from diverse backgrounds, the cultural exchange that comes with tourism will enrich both visitors and local communities, potentially leading to a deeper mutual understanding and appreciation.

Looking forward

Currently, Vietnam offers visa waivers to visitors from 25 countries, whereas Malaysia and Singapore waive visas for 162 countries, the Philippines for 157, Japan for 68, South Korea for 66, and Thailand for 64.

As the proposal is still under consideration, details remain to be finalized. Travelers interested in visiting Vietnam should stay updated through official channels and trusted travel news sources. This policy change, if implemented, marks a significant step in Vietnam’s tourism strategy, positioning it as a forward-thinking nation ready to welcome the world with open arms. Whether you are a seasoned traveler to Vietnam or considering your first visit, the prospect of visa-free travel is exciting news that promises to make exploring this dynamic country easier than ever.

For further reading related to the considerations of Vietnamese Prime Minister: https://e.vnexpress.net/news/travel/vietnam-considers-visa-exemption-for-nationals-of-wealthy-countries-4714848.html