The Government’s resolution on visa exemption for citizens of 12 countries has been assessed as a strategic move, giving fresh momentum to Vietnam’s tourism recovery and strengthening the country's position on the global tourism map.

Foreign tourists experience making lanterns at the Van Mieu – Quoc Tu Giam complex in Hanoi.

The 12 beneficiary countries are Belgium, Bulgaria, Croatia, the Czech Republic, Hungary, Luxembourg, the Netherlands, Poland, Romania, Slovakia, Slovenia, and Switzerland.

Their citizens are allowed to stay in Vietnam for 45 days from the date of entry for tourism purposes, regardless of passport type, provided they meet all entry requirements. The policy is valid from August 15, 2025, to August 14, 2028.

Johan Meier, a 29-year-old Swiss visitor recently spending three weeks in Vietnam, said the 45-day visa exemption is particularly attractive for long-term travellers like him as it enables deeper cultural experiences.

Dr. Nguyen Duc Trong, lecturer at the faculty of tourism and hospitality of the National Economics University, said the visa exemption is a “key” to enhancing Vietnam’s competitiveness.

With only natural beauty, the country cannot surpass regional rivals, he noted, adding that the difference comes from travel convenience, with visas being the first barrier that should be removed.

Easier entry encourages longer stays and higher spending, creating greater economic value than visa fees.

A friendlier visa policy is also expected to help Vietnam attract more international conferences, exhibitions, and events while facilitating business travel. This will generate spillover benefits not only for tourism but also for aviation, transport, retail, and services.

The National Statistics Office reported that with a favourable visa policy, stronger tourism promotion, and vibrant festive activities, international arrivals in Vietnam have risen steadily.

In the first seven months of 2025, the number of international visitors hit 12.23 million, up 22.5% year-on-year.

Data from the Vietnam National Authority of Tourism revealed that the figure between January and August neared 14 million, an annual increase of 21.7%. The country set a goal of welcoming 25 million foreign visitors this year.

Vietnam grants 45-day visa waivers to citizens from 12 countries

Citizens from 12 countries will be granted visa-free entry for stays of up to 45 days in Vietnam for tourism purposes, regardless of their passport types.

Vietnam grants visa-free entry to high-profile foreigners

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Open visa policy helps Vietnam to compete with Southeast Asia in tourism race

With an open visa policy, Vietnam will be able to enhance its appeal to international visitors, helping boost competitive edge and driving economic growth, according to insiders.

Interest in Vietnam surges among Polish, Swiss, and Czech travelers after visa exemption

Data from online travel platform Agoda shows a sharp rise in interest from travelers in Poland, Switzerland, and Czechia following Vietnam's introduction of a visa exemption for citizens of these countries.

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In recent years, alongside the implementation of electronic visas and visas on arrival, the Vietnamese Government has taken significant steps to improve the country’s visa policy, making it more open and flexible.

 

Vietnam improves visa policy to boost tourism competitiveness

With a view to fostering rapid and sustainable tourism growth, Vietnam is professionalising its promotion strategy, focusing on digital technology and market diversification. Consistent communication campaigns, launched both domestically and internationally, will promote the new slogan “Vietnam – Travel to love,” highlighting the country as a safe, hospitable, high-quality, and experience-rich destination.