In a move to boost tourism and attract more international visitors, the National Assembly of Vietnam has approved a government proposal to extend the validity period of tourist e-visas from 30 days to 90 days. The legislative body, with an overwhelming majority of 470 out of 475 members voting in favor, has also endorsed allowing multiple entries for e-visa holders. These amendments, which take effect from August 15, aim to facilitate travel and provide greater flexibility for tourists visiting Vietnam.

Extended E-Visa Validity and Multiple Entries

The key amendment to the Law on Entry, Exit, Transit, and Residence of Foreigners in Vietnam is the extension of the validity period for e-visas. Previously, e-visas were valid for 30 days, but now visitors can stay for up to 90 days, allowing them more time to explore the country and engage in various activities such as tourism, business, or investment. Furthermore, the approval of multiple entries for e-visa holders means that visitors can enter and exit Vietnam multiple times within the 90-day validity period, offering greater convenience and flexibility.

Duration of Visa-Free Stays

In addition to the extension of e-visa validity, the National Assembly has also tripled the visa-free stay duration for visitors from certain countries. Previously, nationals of western European countries, Japan, and South Korea, which are Vietnam's major tourism markets, were permitted to stay without a visa for 15 days. With the amendments, this period has now been increased to 45 days, providing a longer and more immersive experience for these visitors. This change aims to attract more tourists from these countries and encourage them to explore different regions of Vietnam during their extended stay.

Benefits of Multiple-Entry Visas

One of the primary reasons for approving the issuance of multiple-entry visas is to reduce administrative burdens and save time and money for both visitors and immigration authorities. By allowing multiple entries, visitors with e-visas can freely travel in and out of Vietnam without the need for repeated visa applications. This streamlining of the entry process is expected to enhance the overall visitor experience and make Vietnam a more attractive destination for international travelers. Additionally, it is believed that the introduction of multiple-entry visas will facilitate investment opportunities by allowing potential investors to make multiple visits to explore the country's business landscape.

Meeting Visitor Demands and Enhancing Tourism

The decision to extend e-visa validity to three months is in response to the growing demand from foreign visitors who wish to stay longer in Vietnam. By accommodating this demand, Vietnam aims to attract more tourists, foster increased spending, and create a positive impact on the country's tourism industry. Additionally, the extended validity period aligns with the government's efforts to position Vietnam as an attractive investment destination, encouraging foreign investors to explore business opportunities and contribute to the country's economic growth.

Vietnam's Visa Policies in Context

Vietnam's visa policies have undergone significant improvements in recent years. Currently, the country offers e-visas to citizens of 80 countries and territories, simplifying the visa application process and making it more convenient for travelers. Moreover, nationals from 25 countries, mostly with stays ranging from 15 to 30 days, are exempted from visa requirements altogether. While Vietnam's visa policies were previously considered less generous compared to some neighboring countries, these recent amendments demonstrate the country's commitment to enhancing its appeal as a tourist and business destination.

Tourism Recovery and Future Outlook

The tourism industry in Vietnam has faced challenges due to the global COVID-19 pandemic. Despite these difficulties, the country has made progress in gradually reopening its borders and welcoming international visitors. In the first five months of this year, Vietnam received 4.6 million foreign visitors, surpassing half of the annual target of eight million. However, this figure still represents only 63% of the pre-pandemic levels, highlighting the ongoing impact of the health crisis on the tourism sector.

The extension of e-visa validity and the introduction of multiple-entry visas are strategic measures taken by Vietnam to accelerate the recovery of the tourism industry. By attracting a larger number of international travelers, the country aims to revitalize its tourism sector and stimulate economic growth. These amendments demonstrate Vietnam's commitment to providing a welcoming environment for tourists and facilitating their travel experiences, ultimately contributing to the development and prosperity of the country.