Viet Nam Expands Visa Waiver Program: Easier Access for International Travelers

Travellers to Vietnam

Viet Nam has taken a significant step to boost tourism by waiving visas for citizens from 12 countries until March 2028. This new policy is expected to enhance travel convenience and attract more international visitors to the country.

Visa-Free Travel for 12 Countries

From March 15, 2025, to March 14, 2028, citizens from Germany, France, Italy, Spain, the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland, Russia, Japan, South Korea, Denmark, Sweden, Norway, and Finland can enter Viet Nam without a visa. Travelers from these nations are allowed a temporary stay of up to 45 days, regardless of passport type or purpose of entry, provided they meet all entry conditions as per Viet Nam’s regulations. The visa exemption policy may be extended beyond 2028, depending on further assessments.

Additional Short-Term Visa Exemptions

In addition to this extended waiver, Viet Nam has also granted visa-free entry to tourists from Poland, the Czech Republic, and Switzerland from March 1 to December 31, 2025. These policies are part of the country’s broader strategy to facilitate international travel and strengthen its position as a top global destination.

E-Visa Expansion for 80 Countries

Since July 1, 2020, Viet Nam has been issuing e-visas to citizens from 80 countries, including Argentina, Canada, India, the United States, Australia, and China (excluding e-passport holders). Travelers with e-visas can enter the country through eight international airports, 16 land border gates, and 13 seaports, making access more seamless and efficient.

Viet Nam’s Rising Popularity in Global Tourism

Viet Nam has gained significant recognition as a premier travel destination. In 2024, the World Travel Awards honored Viet Nam as "Asia’s Leading Destination," "Asia’s Leading Heritage Destination," and "Asia’s Leading Nature Destination." These accolades, along with favorable visa policies and extensive tourism promotion programs, have contributed to a steady rise in international arrivals.

Last year, Viet Nam welcomed approximately 17.5 million foreign visitors. In the first two months of 2025 alone, nearly 4 million international tourists arrived, reflecting a 30.2 percent increase compared to the same period in 2024. China led the arrivals with 956,000 visitors (27.7 percent), followed by South Korea, Taiwan (China), the U.S., Japan, Cambodia, Malaysia, India, and Russia.

Aiming for Record-Breaking Tourism in 2025

The Vietnamese Government has set an ambitious target to attract 22-23 million international tourists in 2025, surpassing pre-pandemic levels. With a combination of relaxed visa policies, enhanced travel infrastructure, and globally acclaimed attractions, Viet Nam is well-positioned to achieve this goal.

For more information on visa policies and travel updates, visit www.vietnamtourism.gov.vn.