The removal of visa procedures is an important factor for Vietnam’s tourism to attract more foreign tourists (Photo: Vietnam+) Hanoi (VNA) - National Assembly (NA) deputies said that increasing the duration of electronic visas, unilaterally exempting visas and removing visa procedures will help Vietnam's tourism to attract more foreign tourists.
Vietnam’s government is seeking to relax visa requirements to woo more foreign visitors into the country and boost the tourism industry.
In a bid to revive the struggling tourism sector, Vietnam is set to unveil a series of new visa and immigration policies at the upcoming National Assembly meeting.
Among the changes being discussed include offering more visa waivers for foreign tourists, expanding the e-visa program, and increasing the duration of stays for visitors.
These policies are expected to bolster the country's socioeconomic development by attracting foreign visitors, following the devastating impact of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Vietnam’s government is seeking to relax visa requirements to woo more foreign visitors into the country and boost the tourism industry. (Photo: Vietnam+) In 2022, Vietnam set a target of 5 million international visitors but only welcomed 3.6 million, while Thailand attracted 11 million and Malaysia 9.2 million.
Pointing to the fast recovery speed of neighboring Southeast Asian countries, NA deputy Nguyen Manh Hung from the Mekong Delta city of Can Tho said that in 2022, Thailand issued policies to create favorable conditions for tourists, such as extending visas, extending length of stay, and creating favorable conditions for online entry.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs has been proactively urging the Government to present a comprehensive plan to the National Assembly, aimed at expanding the list of visa exemptions and promoting the growth of tourism. The proposed immigration policies encompass several key changes that could potentially transform the landscape of travel to Vietnam.
One significant proposal is the extension of the duration for electronic visas from 30 days to 3 months, applicable for both single and multiple entries. This extended timeframe aims to provide travellers with greater flexibility and encourage longer stays, allowing them to fully immerse themselves in the country's diverse offerings.
The extension of the duration for electronic visas from 30 days to 3 months, applicable for both single and multiple entries aims to provide travellers with greater flexibility and encourage longer stays. (Photo: Le Minh Son/Vietnam+) Furthermore, the plan entails the issuance of electronic visas to citizens of all countries and territories. By streamlining the visa application process, this measure seeks to eliminate unnecessary barriers and facilitate smoother entry for international visitors. This inclusive approach reflects Vietnam's commitment to embracing global tourism and fostering cultural exchange.
Another noteworthy proposal involves extending the visa exemption period. Currently limited to a duration of 15 days, this certificate would be extended to 45 days. This extension aims to accommodate travellers from countries enjoying visa-exempt status, granting them a more extended period to explore the country's attractions and contribute to its tourism revenue.
NA deputy Nguyen Thanh Phuong from Can Tho city said these forthcoming visa and immigration reforms signify Vietnam's determined efforts to revitalise its tourism industry, which has suffered immensely from the impact of the pandemic. The introduction of these policies is anticipated to create new opportunities for growth and development, positioning Vietnam as an appealing destination for international travellers seeking a memorable and immersive experience, Phuong said.
Vietnam expects to handle 110 million domestic and foreign tourists in 2023, with an estimated 8 million coming from foreign arrivals.
As the country prepares to present these proposals to the National Assembly, stakeholders and industry experts eagerly await the outcome, hopeful that these reforms will pave the way for a vibrant and resilient tourism sector in Vietnam./.
