Vietnam is set to enhance its tourism sector by introducing visa-free entry for citizens of various countries. Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh has directed the Ministries of Public Security and Foreign Affairs to implement these changes. The Southeast Asian nation aims to attract over 18 million international travelers by the end of 2024, having welcomed approximately 8.8 million tourists in the first half of this year.
Currently, Vietnam grants tourist visas valid for up to three months to visitors from all countries. Additionally, as of August 2023, Vietnam permits visa-free stays of up to 45 days for citizens from 13 countries, including Germany, France, Italy, Spain, the UK, Russia, Japan, and South Korea. The country also offers visa waivers to citizens from 25 countries.
In comparison, neighboring Southeast Asian countries offer broader visa-free access: Malaysia and Singapore provide entry without visas for citizens from 162 countries, the Philippines for 157 countries, and Thailand for 93 countries. Vietnam’s move aligns with regional trends to attract more tourists, although the list of countries benefiting from the new visa-free policy has not yet been disclosed.
For Indian citizens, who currently need a visa to visit Vietnam, the following options are available:
Regular Tourist Visa:
1 month: $55 (₹4,600)
3 months: $70 (₹5,800)
1 month (multiple entry): $90 (₹7,500)
3 months (multiple entry): $115 (₹9,600)
Emergency E-Visa (2 days processing):
1 month: $85 (₹7,100)
3 months: $95 (₹7,900)
1 month (multiple entry): $100 (₹8,300)
3 months (multiple entry): $125 (₹10,500)
Emergency E-Visa (8 hours processing):
1 month: $120 (₹10,000)
3 months: $175 (₹14,600)
1 month (multiple entry): $140 (₹11,700)
3 months (multiple entry): $185 (₹15,500)
Indian travelers can apply for visas online or choose the visa-on-arrival option, with regular tourist visas requiring application at least 15 days before travel.
