Visa Exemption and E-Visa Policies Drive Growth of International Tourism in Vietnam

Strategic Insights -

Vietnam's introduction of a 45-day visa exemption policy for citizens of Poland, the Czech Republic, and Switzerland has led to significant growth in international tourism, particularly from European markets. The policy, combined with the expansion of e-visa issuance, has created a more accessible and convenient travel experience for tourists. According to data from Agoda, searches for accommodations in Vietnam from these markets have surged by 306%, 155%, and 68% from Poland, the Czech Republic, and Switzerland, respectively.

Key Takeaways:

  • The 45-day visa exemption policy for citizens of Poland, the Czech Republic, and Switzerland has been effective since March, resulting in a significant increase in tourist searches and numbers from these markets.
  • The most sought-after destinations in Vietnam include Aa Naoung, HCM City, Ha Na tmi, Phu Qua 'c, and Nha Trang, which are renowned for their rich tourism ecosystems, diverse accommodation options, and vibrant recreational activities.
  • Tourists from these European countries tend to prefer premium services, including local cultural experiences, and enjoy traditional Vietnamese cuisine.
  • The tourism sector in Vietnam is capitalizing on this trend by upgrading tourism products and promoting luxury experiences, including golf tourism, cruise travel, wellness retreats, and adventure tourism.
  • The Vietnam National Administration of Tourism has implemented various promotional strategies to attract international visitors, including large-scale international promotion programmes in key European markets.
  • The country aims to welcome 22 to 23 million international visitors this year, thanks to positive signals from international tourism growth.

Statistics:

  • Searches for accommodations in Vietnam from Poland increased by 306% after the implementation of the temporary visa exemption policy.
  • Searches from the Czech Republic increased by 155% and from Switzerland by 68% compared to the same period in 2024.
  • The number of tourists from Poland to Vietnam has increased by 44% and visitors from Switzerland have risen by 10% compared to the same period in 2024.
  • The country aims to welcome 22 to 23 million international visitors this year.

Sources:

  • Agoda (no date specified)
  • Vietnam National Administration of Tourism (no date specified)
  • Vietluxtour TraoSSn Tha 'c and Hao! Long Bay (no date specified)
  • Vietravel (no date specified)
  • Straof Reuters (no date specified)