Vietnam announces visa-free entry to multiple countries to boost tourism: Details

Hanoi: Vietnam may soon roll out visa-free entry for citizens of various countries to boost their tourism sector. Vietnamese Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh has given the necessary instructions regarding this to the Ministries of Public Security and Foreign Affairs. The Southeast Asian country plans to attract more than 18 million international travellers by the end of 2024. As per the official data published by the government, around 8.8 million tourists visited Vietnam in the first half of the year. Currently, Vietnam offers tourist visas that are valid for up to three months to citizens of all countries. Besides, in August 2023, Vietnam allowed visa-free stay in the country for citizens from 13 countries including Germany, France, Italy, Spain, UK, Russia, Japan and South Korea, for up to 45 days.

Currently, Vietnam offers visa waivers for citizens of 25 countries. Meanwhile, neighbouring countries like Malaysia and Singapore allow visa-free entry for citizens from 162 countries while the Philippines allows visa-free entry for citizens from 157 countries. Thailand too offers visa-free entry for citizens of 93 countries. Vietnam has come up with the latest visa regulations as other Southeast Asian countries have been introducing visa-free entry. However, Vietnam hasn’t revealed the list of countries that will be allowed visa waivers. Indian citizens require a visa to visit Vietnam. They could apply for the visa online or could avail of the visa-on-arrival option. The visa thus issued will be valid for up to 90 days. For a regular tourist visa, one needs to apply at least 15 days before the day of travel.

Visa rates for Indian citizens

Regular tourist visa
1 month: 55 Dollars (Rs 4,600)
3 months: 70 Dollars (Rs 5,800)
1 month (multiple entry visa): 90 Dollars (Rs 7,500)
3 months (multiple entry visa): 115 Dollars (Rs 9,600)

Emergency e–visa that is available in two days
1 month: 85 Dollars (Rs 7,100)
3 months: 95 Dollars (Rs 7,900)
1 month (multiple entry visa): 100 Dollars (Rs 8,300)
3 months (multiple entry visa): 125 Dollars (Rs 10,500)

Emergency e–visa that is approved within just 8 hours
1 month: 120 Dollars (Rs 10,000)
3 months: 175 Dollars (Rs 14,600)
1 month (multiple entry visa): 140 Dollars (Rs 11,700)
3 months (multiple entry visa): 185 Dollars (Rs 15,500)