Vietnam has recently expanded its visa exemption initiative, inviting a selection of European nations to participate in this strategic move aimed at boosting tourism. By allowing citizens of certain countries to enter without a visa for up to 45 days, Vietnam is enhancing accessibility and fostering a greater influx of international visitors. This initiative, effective until August 14, 2028, signifies a concerted effort to position Vietnam as a premier travel destination in Southeast Asia while stimulating its economic growth through enhanced cultural exchanges and tourism activities.
Introduction to Vietnam’s Visa Exemption Initiative
Vietnam is enhancing its attraction as a premier travel destination through an updated visa waiver policy aimed at several European nations. This initiative, effective until August 14, 2028, seeks to boost tourist arrivals and support the growth of the country’s tourism sector. As a testament to its openness, Vietnam has negotiated visa exemption agreements that allow citizens from select countries to enjoy visa-free stays for up to 45 days, reinforcing Vietnam’s appeal as a cultural and economic hub in Southeast Asia.
Countries Benefiting from the Visa Waiver
As of August 15, 2025, citizens from countries including Belgium, Bulgaria, Croatia, Hungary, Luxembourg, Netherlands, Romania, Slovakia, and Slovenia have been incorporated into Vietnam’s visa exemption program. This addition reflects Vietnam’s commitment to expand its tourism sector while facilitating easy entry for international travelers. Moreover, existing exemptions for Poland, the Czech Republic, and Switzerland have also been extended until August 14, 2028, allowing a broader range of visitors to explore Vietnam.
Prior Visa Waiver Adjustments
Previously, starting from March 15, 2025, several other European nations had already been granted visa waivers under the same initiative. These countries include Germany, France, Italy, Spain, United Kingdom, and several others. The recent revisions and expansions of the visa waiver policy signify Vietnam’s ongoing drive to attract more tourists and strengthen cultural exchanges. The inclusion of a total of 24 countries showcases the country’s dedication to becoming a key player in the global tourism industry.
Conditions for Entry Under the Visa Exemption Program
To take advantage of the visa exemption, travelers must adhere to specific conditions. The regulations stipulate that visitors may stay in Vietnam for a maximum of 45 days without a visa, which starts from their date of entry. All passports must maintain a validity of at least six months beyond the date of departure from Vietnam. Future visitors planning a stay exceeding this duration can apply for an electronic visa (e-visa), which streamlines the entry process further.
The Impact on Vietnam’s Tourism Sector
This expanded visa exemption policy is part of a larger strategy by the Vietnamese government to boost international tourism. By simplifying entry requirements and promoting the country as a tourist destination, Vietnam aims to enhance its economic and cultural exchanges. This effort has already shown promising results, with over 12 million visitors recorded in the first seven months of 2025, indicating sustained interest in exploring Vietnam’s rich heritage and stunning landscapes.
Vietnam’s proactive visa exemption initiative, which now encompasses several European nations, represents a significant step towards enhancing its appeal as a premier travel destination. The measures facilitate easier access for tourists, supporting both cultural and economic growth, and position Vietnam firmly on the global tourism map.
- Countries with Extended Visa Exemption (Until August 14, 2028):
- Belgium
- Bulgaria
- Croatia
- Hungary
- Luxembourg
- Netherlands
- Romania
- Slovakia
- Slovenia
- Countries Already Exempt:
- Germany
- France
- Italy
- Spain
- UK
- Russia
- Japan
- South Korea
- Denmark
- Sweden
- Norway
- Finland
- Countries with New Visa Exemption Policy (From August 15, 2025):
- Poland
- Czech Republic
- Switzerland
The Vietnamese government is actively expanding its visa waiver policy to attract more tourists from various European nations. This initiative, effective from August 15, 2025, allows citizens from countries such as Belgium, Bulgaria, Croatia, Hungary, Luxembourg, Netherlands, Romania, Slovakia, and Slovenia to enter Vietnam without a visa for stays of up to 45 days. This extension of the policy aligns with Vietnam’s broader strategy to enhance tourism momentum, promote cultural exchanges, and strengthen economic ties until August 14, 2028. Furthermore, other nationalities including the Polish, Czech, and Swiss citizens are also included in this initiative, benefiting from a visa exemption period to facilitate smoother travel to Vietnam.

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