Vietnam considers easier entry rules for foreign tourists

Photo courtesy of Tuoi Tre

Vietnam is considering more favourable entry and exit policies for international tourists as part of an ambitious plan to turn tourism into a leading economic sector and attract 70 million foreign visitors annually by 2045.

The proposals form part of Resolution No. 26, issued by the Politburo and signed by Party General Secretary and State President To Lam.

Relevant agencies have been instructed to examine wider bilateral visa exemptions and preferential visa policies for travellers considered likely to make a significant contribution to the tourism industry.

Long-stay visitors and remote workers targeted

The resolution also raises the possibility of controlled pilot schemes designed to attract long-stay visitors, remote workers and international investment in tourism and resort developments.

Vietnam plans to support new tourism models connected with digital platforms, the sharing economy, night-time entertainment, coastal and riverside activities, healthcare, shopping, conferences, exhibitions, culture and sport.

Authorities have also been told to improve value-added tax refund arrangements at major shopping centres, tourism hubs and other eligible outlets. The aim is to encourage visitors to spend more while making Vietnam more competitive with other regional destinations.

Pilot programmes may be introduced where existing legislation does not cover new tourism projects or where different rules are required to resolve urgent development issues.

Major cities to drive tourism expansion

Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City and Da Nang have been identified as Vietnam’s three principal tourism growth centres. The government also plans to develop ten key tourism hubs, 20 national tourism areas and internationally competitive beach and island resorts.

By 2030, Vietnam wants tourism to contribute directly between 10 and 12 percent of gross domestic product. The country is targeting 45–50 million international visitors, 160 million domestic travellers and annual tourism revenue of US$80–90 billion.

The strategy calls for approximately 1.5 million accommodation rooms and expects tourism to support 2.3 million direct jobs and 3.5 million indirect jobs.

By 2045, tourism is intended to contribute 14–15 percent of GDP and place Vietnam among the world’s 30 most competitive tourism destinations. More than 21 million international tourists visited the country in 2025.

What it means for foreigners in Vietnam

Foreign travellers could eventually benefit from wider visa exemptions, easier entry procedures, improved tax refunds and more services aimed at long-stay visitors and remote workers. However, the resolution outlines areas for further study rather than immediate rule changes. Existing visa and entry requirements therefore remain in force until the government announces and implements specific policies.

31 August 2026