Vietnam is evaluating the implementation of a more flexible and convenient visa policy for tourists, including visa exemptions - particularly short-term - aimed at attracting high-profile individuals such as renowned artists, famous athletes, and billionaires.

On April 10, Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh signed Directive No. 34 to promote tourism development and ensure double-digit economic growth.

In the directive, the Prime Minister instructed the Ministry of Public Security, Ministry of National Defense, and Ministry of Foreign Affairs to coordinate with the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism to propose user-friendly visa policies.

These may include full visa exemptions for tourists, especially those entering Vietnam under tourism stimulus programs or to attend cultural diplomacy events by invitation from ministers or heads of governmental bodies.

The Prime Minister also emphasized the importance of designing favorable visa policies for specific groups, including researchers, artists, world-renowned athletes, experts, scientists, investors, and billionaires visiting Vietnam for tourism or for involvement in national projects or initiatives.

Vietnam's tourism sector has largely rebounded since the COVID-19 pandemic, showing impressive growth and emerging as a bright spot in the country’s broader socio-economic development.

In 2024, Vietnam welcomed 17.6 million international tourists, a 39% increase year-on-year. Domestic tourists reached 110 million, up 1.6%, while total tourism revenue reached approximately VND 840 trillion (around USD 33.2 billion), a 24% rise from 2023.

During the first quarter of 2025, international arrivals surpassed 6 million - the highest quarterly figure ever recorded - marking a 29.6% increase compared to Q1 2024 and affirming Vietnam's growing appeal as a global destination.

For 2025, Vietnam aims to welcome 22–23 million international tourists, serve 130 million domestic travelers, and achieve tourism revenue growth of 12–13% compared to 2024.

The Vinh