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Vietnam's Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh has proposed visa waivers for several countries to boost tourism. He has directed the ministries of public security and foreign affairs to explore this initiative, aiming to make Vietnam a more attractive travel destination amidst stiff competition in Southeast Asia.
During a recent meeting with Vietnamese representatives abroad, Prime Minister Chinh stressed the need to simplify visa procedures. He called for cooperation between ministries to waive visas for tourists from selected nations, making travel to Vietnam easier. "The Ministry of Public Security, in coordination with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, should consider visa waivers for several countries," stated Prime Minister Chinh.
Current Visa Policies and Regional Comparison
Currently, Vietnam offers visa exemptions to travelers from 25 countries, which is fewer than its regional counterparts. For example, Malaysia and Singapore provide visa-free access to citizens from 162 countries, the Philippines to 157, and Thailand to 93. This initiative comes as neighboring countries like Thailand expand their visa-free policies and Indonesia plans to introduce visa-free travel to new destinations by October.
Vietnam presently grants a three-month tourist visa to citizens of all countries and territories. Since August 2023, it has extended visa-free stays to 45 days for citizens of 13 countries, including Germany, France, Italy, Spain, the UK, Russia, Japan, South Korea, and several Nordic nations.
Tourism Goals and Visitor Statistics
Despite welcoming 8.8 million international visitors in the first half of 2024—a 4% decline from pre-pandemic levels—Vietnam aims to attract 18 million international tourists by year-end. While specific countries for potential visa waivers have not been disclosed yet, Vietnam's proactive stance highlights its commitment to revitalizing its tourism sector and drawing more foreign visitors.
Vietnam's tourism industry offers a captivating blend of cultural heritage, scenic landscapes, and vibrant cities. From the ancient charm of Hoi An's lantern-lit streets to the breathtaking Halong Bay and bustling Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam entices travelers with its rich history, delicious cuisine, and warm hospitality.
The proposal aligns with Vietnam's broader goal of increasing competitiveness in the global tourism market. Stakeholders and travel enthusiasts eagerly await further developments from the Ministries of Public Security and Foreign Affairs regarding this initiative.
