Tourism New Visa Rules to Narrow Vietnam-Thailand Tourist Gap

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Photo courtesy of VN Express

 

In efforts to increase its tourism numbers, Vietnam has introduced significant visa relaxations that could see it attracting up to 30 million foreign visitors annually by 2026. The move narrows the gap with tourism giant Thailand, which welcomes 35–36 million arrivals each year.

 

On 8th August, the Vietnamese government announced the waiving of visa requirements for citizens from 12 additional countries, including Belgium, the Netherlands, and Switzerland, allowing stays of up to 45 days. This expansion brings Vietnam’s unilateral visa waiver list to 24 countries and extends its overall exemption policy to 39.

 

Pham Hai Quynh, of the Asian Development Institute in Hanoi, remarked, "Improving visa policies offers significant opportunities for both the tourism sector and Vietnam's broader economic development."

 

In a push towards growth, the government also granted visa exemptions for scientists, investors, and billionaires. This strategic move aims to attract affluent tourists who seek premium and sustainable experiences, aligning with Vietnam's high-end tourism goals.

 

Travelogy director Vu Van Tuyen described this as "a message of openness and integration,” highlighting its potential to draw high-income, long-staying visitors interested in luxury experiences. Vietnam is well-positioned in this market with offerings such as superyacht tours in Ha Long Bay, five-star resorts in Phu Quoc and Da Nang, and world-class golf courses.

 

For European visitors, these policy changes lower entry barriers, making Vietnam more accessible and appealing. Travel companies can now offer targeted experiences, such as culinary tours for French tourists or heritage itineraries for German visitors.

 

Tuyen anticipates a 20–25% increase in tourist arrivals, spurring growth in aviation, food, and handicrafts. However, Nguyen Van My, chairman of Lua Viet Tours, noted that attracting repeat visits from high-end consumers is essential for maximising economic gains.

 

While the visa reforms are important, insiders caution that closing the gap with Thailand requires more than just policy changes. Quynh emphasised the importance of investing in infrastructure, service quality, and marketing strategies.

 

To achieve this, My suggests Vietnam’s tourism sector should follow competitors in opening international offices for promotion. For instance, Malaysia has extensive networks with 30 representative offices globally.

 

"Vietnam's tourism is accelerating, but so are other countries'," My asserted. "We need to run faster to catch up with them."

 

With these proactive measures, Vietnam is positioning itself to become a formidable player in the regional tourism market, offering a blend of cultural richness and modern luxury.

 

  Adapted by ASEAN Now from VN Express 2025-08-14