Vietnam Considers Expanding Visa Exemption Policy to Include More Countries

Introduction:

In an effort to boost tourism and enhance Vietnam’s global competitiveness, the Prime Minister of Vietnam, Pham Minh Chinh, has issued a directive calling for the expansion of the visa exemption policy. The directive urges the Ministry of Public Security to consider including citizens from additional countries in the visa exemption program, based on evolving circumstances and Vietnam’s bilateral relations with those countries.

Expanding the Visa Exemption Policy:

Under Directive No. 06/CT-TTg, Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh has instructed the Ministry of Public Security to review and propose the inclusion of citizens from other countries in the visa exemption policy. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs has also been directed to collaborate with the Ministry of Public Security in evaluating existing unilateral visa exemptions for citizens from 13 countries and to identify potential candidates for inclusion on the list.

Benefits and Objectives:

The expansion of the visa exemption policy aims to attract more international tourists to Vietnam and enhance the country’s competitiveness in the tourism sector. By simplifying the visa application process for citizens of additional countries, Vietnam hopes to position itself as an attractive destination, offering convenience and ease of travel. This move aligns with Vietnam’s broader goal of promoting economic growth through tourism and fostering international cooperation.

Current Visa Exemption Status:

Currently, Vietnam grants visa exemptions to citizens from 25 countries, including 13 countries that enjoy unilateral exemptions. The countries benefiting from unilateral exemptions are Germany, France, Italy, Spain, the UK, Russia, Japan, the Republic of Korea, Denmark, Sweden, Norway, Finland, and Belarus. Additionally, since August 2023, Vietnam has implemented electronic visas for citizens from all countries, allowing for extended stays of up to 90 days with multiple entries. The duration of stays for citizens of countries under unilateral visa exemptions has also been extended from 15 to 45 days.

The Economic Impact:

Expanding the visa exemption policy is expected to have a positive impact on Vietnam’s economy. By attracting more tourists from diverse countries, the tourism industry will experience growth, leading to increased revenue for businesses, job creation, and a boost in local economies. Moreover, international visitors often contribute to various sectors of the economy, including hospitality, transportation, retail, and entertainment.

Conclusion:

Vietnam’s consideration of expanding the visa exemption policy reflects its commitment to fostering international tourism and strengthening global relations. By simplifying visa procedures and welcoming citizens from more countries, Vietnam aims to position itself as a desirable destination for travelers worldwide. The expansion of the visa exemption policy will not only benefit the tourism sector but also contribute to the overall economic growth of the country. As Vietnam continues to develop its tourism infrastructure and promote its cultural and natural attractions, it is poised to become an increasingly popular destination for international travelers.