TEL AVIV / HANOI – A new direct flight connection between Israel and Vietnam will make it easier for Israeli travelers to visit the Southeast Asian country, as they will also benefit from the electronic visa system.

According to the Israeli Embassy in Hanoi, the first direct flight from Tel Aviv to Ho Chi Minh City is scheduled for October 2023, and it will be followed by two weekly flights operated by VietJet Air, a low-cost Vietnamese airline. The details of the flight schedule and ticket prices have not been announced yet, but the embassy said that the direct flights will reduce travel time and costs for Israeli tourists, who currently have to transit through other countries.

Vietnam is one of the most popular destinations for Israeli travelers in Asia, as it offers a rich cultural heritage, diverse natural landscapes, and friendly people. Vietnam also has a special historical connection with Israel, as it was one of the first countries to recognize Israel’s independence in 1948. In recent years, the bilateral relations between the two countries have been strengthened by cooperation in various fields, such as trade, agriculture, education, and innovation.

One of the main advantages of traveling to Vietnam for Israeli citizens is the electronic visa system, which was launched in 2017 and allows visitors from 80 countries, including Israel, to apply for a visa online and receive it by email within three working days. The E-Visa is valid for 30 days and costs 25 USD. The E-Visa holders can enter Vietnam through any of the 33 international border gates, including eight airports, 16 land crossings, and nine seaports.

The electronic visa system has made it more convenient and faster for Israeli travelers to obtain a visa to Vietnam, as they do not have to visit the Vietnamese embassy or consulate in Israel or wait in long queues at the airport. The E-Visa also reduces the risk of fraud or loss of a passport, as it is stored electronically and can be printed out or shown on a mobile device.

With the new direct flight connection and the electronic visa system, Vietnam is expected to attract more Israeli tourists in the coming years, as well as enhance the cultural and people-to-people exchanges between the two countries. Vietnam is considered a safe and hospitable country that welcomes visitors from all over the world with open arms. (zi)