English
French
Spanish
Italian
The updated Vietnam visa exemption policies for 12 countries and other eligible groups signal that this country is stepping up its game in the global tourism and business arena. Announced on August 8, 2025, the attempt is expected to bring many benefits to both the nation and foreign visitors.
The Vietnamese government has recently issued Resolution 229 with updated Vietnam visa exemption policies as part of a broader tourism stimulus program. This is an attempt to increase the nation's accessibility for tourists from other countries.
This announcement coincides with a period of rapid growth in Vietnam's tourism sector. 12.2 million foreign visitors visited the nation in the first seven months of 2025, a 22% increase over the same period in 2024.
Vietnam has established itself as an ideal tourist destination, not only in Southeast Asia but also on the global stage
Vietnam is establishing the foundation for sustained economic growth by making it easier for more people to enter, particularly prominent figures in business, science, and culture.
Starting August 15, 2025, citizens from European countries of Belgium, Bulgaria, Croatia, the Czech Republic, Hungary, Luxembourg, the Netherlands, Poland, Romania, Slovakia, Slovenia, and Switzerland will be allowed to enter Vietnam without a visa and stay for up to 45 days.
This Vietnam visa exemption policy applies regardless of passport type and will remain in effect until August 14, 2028. This decision doubles Vietnam’s list of countries benefiting from unilateral visa exemptions, bringing the total from 12 to 24.
Visa difficulty is an important factor in deciding where to travel
It reflects a growing recognition that removing barriers to entry is one of the most effective ways to succeed in the global tourism market. For many European travelers, who often combine multiple destinations in a single trip, such visa policies can be the deciding factor in choosing where to go.
Just days before Resolution 229 was announced, the government issued Decree 221, which targets a very different audience. This policy offers limited-term visa exemptions to six categories of individuals deemed particularly valuable for Vietnam’s socio-economic development.
The first group covered by the Vietnam visa exemption includes guests invited by the country’s top leadership, ranging from the General Secretary and President to provincial leaders.
You may also like: Cat Tien National Park Tour 3-Day: Wildlife and Nature
The second focuses on scholars, scientists, professors, chief engineers, and top-tier digital technology professionals who have either won prestigious international awards or earned significant recognition in their fields.
Vietnam is signaling its ambition to become a hub for innovation and research in Southeast Asia
The updated Vietnam visa exemption also covers business leaders. Executives and investors from companies ranked among the world’s top 100 by market capitalization will be eligible for visa exemptions. This is a clear nod to the government’s desire to encourage large-scale investment and foster stronger partnerships with global industry giants.
In addition, influential figures in the arts, sports, and tourism will also qualify for exemptions. Vietnam’s honorary consuls abroad and guests invited by major research institutions, universities, or large enterprises also fall within the scope of this policy.
Of course, there will be criteria. For professional footballers, the bar is especially high: they must rank among the world’s top 100 players and be invited by a Vietnamese professional club.
To implement these changes, the Vietnamese government will offer two types of special Vietnam visa exemption cards: an electronic version and a physical card embedded with a chip. Both formats carry equal legal validity and can be issued for up to five years, and will expire at least 30 days before the passport’s expiration date.
As Vietnam enters a new era of national rise, the country will take many measures to open itself further to the world
This modernization of the visa process is in line with how most countries operate nowadays, reflecting Vietnam’s aim to make traveling in and out of its borders more convenient and secure.
In addition, if you’re wondering how long does it take to get a Vietnam visa, the normal processing time is 4 to 7 working days, counted from the date all required documents are submitted.
With the visa exemption now extended to 45 days for 12 more European countries, Vietnam becomes far more appealing for extended holidays.
Many travellers choose to visit Vietnam as part of a Southeast Asia itinerary
If you’re European, there’s a high chance that you’d love to combine multiple Southeast Asian destinations in one trip. With this updated 45-day allowance, it is now easier to comfortably spend two to three weeks in Vietnam without worrying about having to cut the itinerary short.
For expats and business travelers who qualify under the special Vietnam visa exemption, travel in and out of the country and between different regions of Southeast Asia becomes simpler and cheaper. This would make it easier for expats to travel to Vietnam more frequently for short vacations or business meetings.
Vietnam is also emerging as a business & conference hub
Thanks to the extended stay allowed under the revised Vietnam visa exemption regulations, you’ll have more time to visit less-popular destinations like Quy Nhon, Ninh Binh, or Can Tho. If you're into off-the-beaten-path trips, this is an absolute win.
There are many hidden gems in Vietnam that remain under the mainstream radar, waiting to be explored
The Vietnam 5-year visa exemption can be a game-changer if you're not on the eligible list but still intend to travel there frequently.
Designed for overseas Vietnamese, their spouses, and certain invited guests, this exemption allows you to enter and exit Vietnam as many times as you like for a period of five years without needing to reapply for a visa each time.
With new policy updates, applying for a Vietnam visa will only become easier
While the visa itself is free, the Vietnam 5-year visa exemption fee is simply a small processing charge you pay when applying, which is about US$20 for first-time issuance and US$10 from second-time issuance onwards.
Vietnam, already renowned for its warmth and friendliness, is becoming even more accessible to foreign tourists and expats thanks to these new visa exemption policies and other administrative changes.
If you need some assistance with your travel arrangements to Vietnam, our team of professionals at Asia King Travel is always available. We have the answer to all of your inquiries, including the classics like how long does it take to obtain a Vietnam visa or how much the 5-year visa exemption fee is, and make sure that your trip is as smooth, unforgettable, and fulfilling as it can be.
You may also like: Ha Giang Tour 3 days: A Scenic Journey through Dong Van
