HANOI – As of August 15, 2023, Vietnam launched a new electronic visa system (e-visa) for all nationalities. This relaxation is expected to provide a major boost to the country’s tourism and related sectors, which struggled to thrive before the pandemic in part due to bureaucratic regulations.

In addition, visitors from select countries are granted the privilege of a visa waiver, allowing them to explore Vietnam for a longer period of up to 45 days (90 days in some cases).

Legal basis for expanding access to the e-visa for Vietnam

The Vietnamese e-visa system was introduced under Resolution No. 127/NQ-CP dated August 14, 2023. This resolution represents a notable expansion of the availability of e-visas to citizens from all countries and territories, a significant relaxation from the previous list of 80 countries.

The main aim of this strategic move is to strengthen tourism and position Vietnam as a more accessible and attractive destination for travelers from all over the world and to keep it competitive compared to neighboring prominent destinations in the region.

Expanded “visa-free” privileges for select countries

Of notable significance, the introduction of the e-visa brings with it a standardized allowable stay of 90 days, encouraging longer consecutive stays than previously possible, which also makes Vietnam a more attractive destination for foreign retirees, particularly those spending the winter months outside of your own country.

Travelers from certain Western European countries as well as Japan and South Korea make important contributions to Vietnam’s tourism economy. Before the change, these people were granted visa-free entry for a period of 15 days.

The extension of the visa-free days should be tripled, i.e. 45 days, attracting a higher number of visitors from these countries, which is expected to increase lagging tourism revenue and promote greater cultural exchange.

This transformative visa policy reform extends its benefits beyond major aviation hubs such as Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City.
Attracting highly qualified talent, and business travelers, boosting tourism.

In addition to the extended duration of the e-visa, the National Assembly has approved the introduction of multiple-entry visas.
Policymakers expect that these decisions will streamline administrative processes, resulting in significant time and cost savings for both the Vietnamese government and visa applicants.

A three-month e-Visa effectively meets the needs of foreign visitors who wish to extend their stay to explore potential investment opportunities.

Source: Dezshira