Vietnam’s tourism sector anticipates visa-free policy to boost international arrivals

At the opening of the ninth session of Vietnam’s 15th National Assembly earlier this week, Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh outlined key tasks for achieving a GDP growth target of at least eight percent and a US$500-billion economy by 2025.

Among them is a focus on revitalizing tourism under the slogan ‘Distinctive products – professional services – simple procedures – competitive pricing – clean environment – safe and friendly destinations.’

This includes stimulating travel demand through the 2025 tourism promotion program and considering temporary visa exemptions for categories such as scientists, businesspeople, artists, and athletes, as well as citizens from strategic partner countries.

Huynh Phan Phuong Hoang, deputy CEO of Vietravel, a Vietnamese aviation and tourism corporation, said that the company will continue to tailor specialized tourism products that combine cultural, culinary, ecological, and wellness experiences, personalized to meet the needs of high-value customers.

She viewed the potential visa policy as a significant opening for targeted international marketing efforts.

To attract new customer segments, Vietravel plans to promote luxury packages combining business trips, conferences, cultural discovery, and premium resorts.

The company will also seek partnerships with scientific institutions, businesses, and cultural and sports associations.

Tu Quy Thanh, director of Ho Chi Minh City-based Lien Bang Travelink, which specializes in offering outbound and inbound tours, welcomed the visa proposal, calling it “valuable information” for inbound tour operators.

Thanh said that many firms have prepared tour products and are simply waiting for official confirmation to inform foreign partners and launch promotions.

He emphasized that while businesses are ready, government support for promotion and marketing is essential to maximize impact.

“Inbound firms already have the products and are expanding them—we just need a strong push in the form of strategic promotions to major markets,” he said.

Nguyen Duc Hiep, CEO of Viettourist, said that his company has already begun expanding outreach to European markets.

In late 2024, Viettourist was the only Vietnamese company to participate in the Swiss International Holiday Exhibition in Lugano, Switzerland, where it offered Vietnam tours at prices 20–30 percent lower than European competitors.

“Direct market access and transparent tour pricing help convince travelers to choose Vietnam,” Hiep explained.

“A visa waiver would remove a major barrier, unlocking more foreign currency inflows and strengthening Vietnam’s position as a competitive travel destination.”