Breakthrough visa policies drive inbound tourism to Vietnam

THE HANOI TIMES — Vietnam has relaxed its visa policies to boost tourism, according to Pham Van Thuy, Deputy Director General of the Vietnam National Authority of Tourism under the Ministry of Culture, Sports, and Tourism.

Vietnam currently grants visa exemptions on a reciprocal basis to citizens of 15 countries and unilaterally waives visas for citizens of 12 others. The government has extended the unilateral visa waiver program until March 14, 2028, which allows for a maximum stay of 45 days, regardless of passport type or entry purpose.

A significant step forward is the approval of the amended Law on the Exit and Entry of Vietnamese Citizens. Accordingly, e-visas applicable to all countries and territories have had their validity extended from 30 to 90 days, allowing for single or multiple entries.

"These changes have made it easier for international tourists to visit Vietnam and have made the country more appealing to tourists," said Thuy.

As part of the 2025 national tourism stimulus program, the government adopted a resolution granting conditional visa exemptions to nationals of Poland, the Czech Republic, and Switzerland. Visitors from these countries will be able to stay visa-free for up to 45 days if they travel through programs launched by authorized Vietnamese travel agencies. This policy is in effect until December 31.

"Vietnam is adopting a more professional approach to promoting its tourism, focusing on digital technology and market diversification to foster rapid and sustainable growth," said Thuy.

Consistent communication campaigns, launched both domestically and internationally, will promote the new slogan, "Vietnam — Travel to Love," and highlight the country as a safe, hospitable, experience-rich destination.