Starting from August 15, 2023, Vietnam has taken a progressive stride by extending the validity of its electronic visa, the Vietnam E-visa, from the existing 60 days to an extended period of 90 days. This decision reflects Vietnam’s proactive approach to encouraging longer visits, ultimately aiming to stimulate economic activities within the country.

E-visa and Visa Policy Reforms: A Strategic Shift for Vietnam

In an effort to bolster tourism and attract international investments, Vietnam has embraced this policy change as part of a broader strategic initiative. The extended validity of the E-visa is expected to enhance convenience for both tourists and corporate travelers, providing them with an extended timeframe to explore and experience the country. Additionally, this change is anticipated to streamline the entry of skilled workers and specialists who contribute significantly to Vietnam’s economy.

Multiple-Entry Visas and Administrative Streamlining

Concurrent with the extension of E-visa validity, the National Assembly of Vietnam has approved the introduction of multiple-entry visas. 

• Vietnam has introduced multiple-entry visas in conjunction with the extension of E-visa validity to 90 days.
• Travelers with multiple-entry visas can enter and exit Vietnam multiple times within the visa’s validity period.
• This policy aims to reduce administrative burdens, leading to time and cost savings for both the government and visa applicants.
• The introduction of a three-month E-visa and multiple-entry option aligns with the needs of foreign visitors seeking extended stays, including those exploring investment opportunities.

Encouraging Extended Stays

The revisions in visa policy extend the duration of visa-free stays for citizens of specific countries to an impressive 45 days, which is three times the previous limit. Nationals from select Western European nations, Japan, and South Korea, major contributors to Vietnam’s thriving tourism sector, can now enjoy an extended visa-free stay. This strategic policy aims to entice visitors from these countries to prolong their time in Vietnam, subsequently boosting tourism revenue and fostering cultural exchange.

Positive Reception and Economic Implications

The decision to extend E-visa validity and allow multiple entries has been met with enthusiasm from Vietnam’s tourism and business sectors. These alterations are anticipated to make the country more appealing to foreign investors, playing a pivotal role in revitalizing economic growth, particularly in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Enhancing Regional Competitiveness

Vietnam’s current visa policies, offering E-visas to residents of approximately 80 countries and territories, and exemptions for nationals of 25 countries, have been perceived as less liberal compared to its neighboring countries. The newly introduced 90-day E-visa policy is positioned to enhance Vietnam’s regional competitiveness, drawing a larger influx of tourists and investors.

Application Process Remains Unchanged

It is important to note that despite the policy changes, the Vietnam E-visa application process remains unchanged. Applicants are still required to provide their passport details, a recent passport-sized photo, and make the necessary fee payment online. The E-visa is then delivered to the applicant via email.

In Summary

In summary, the decision to extend Vietnam’s E-visa validity to 90 days and introduce multiple-entry visas signifies a significant stride towards making the country more accessible and attractive to foreign visitors and investors. These policy changes are projected to elevate tourism, foster cultural exchange, and contribute to the overall economic development of Vietnam. With the new policy taking effect on August 15, 2023, travelers intending to visit Vietnam can look forward to a more flexible and accommodating visa experience.

FAQ

1. What is the validity period of Vietnam’s E-visa before the extension?

The validity period of Vietnam’s E-visa was previously 60 days.

2. When will the validity extension of Vietnam’s E-visa come into effect?

The validity extension of Vietnam’s E-visa to 90 days will begin on August 15, 2023.

3. Why did Vietnam decide to extend the validity of its E-visa?

Vietnam aims to encourage longer visits and stimulate economic activity within the country through this policy change. By offering an extended visa validity period, Vietnam hopes to attract more tourists, skilled workers, and specialists, ultimately contributing to its economic growth.

4. What is the significance of multiple-entry visas in this context?

Alongside the extended E-visa validity, Vietnam has also introduced multiple-entry visas. This means that travelers with these visas can enter and exit Vietnam multiple times within the validity period of the visa. This change is expected to streamline administrative processes and save time and costs for both the government and applicants.

5. Which visitors will benefit from the extended visa-free stay period?

Nationals from select Western European countries, Japan, and South Korea, which are major contributors to Vietnam’s tourism sector, will now enjoy a visa-free stay period of up to 45 days. This is a threefold increase from the previous limit, aiming to encourage longer stays and boost tourism revenue.

6. How have the tourism and business sectors in Vietnam reacted to these changes?

The tourism and business sectors in Vietnam have responded positively to the extension of E-visa validity and the introduction of multiple-entry visas. These changes are expected to make the country more attractive to foreign investors and play a crucial role in reviving economic growth, especially considering the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic.

7. Will the application process for Vietnam’s E-visa change with the new policy?

No, the application process for Vietnam’s E-visa remains the same. Applicants are still required to provide their passport details, a recent passport-sized photo, and pay the necessary fee online. The E-visa will then be delivered to the applicant via email.

8. How does Vietnam’s E-visa policy compare to neighboring countries?

Vietnam’s previous visa policies were perceived as less liberal compared to its neighboring countries. The introduction of the 90-day E-visa policy is expected to enhance Vietnam’s competitiveness in the region, attracting more tourists and investors.

9. Will this policy change impact international investment in Vietnam?

Yes, the extension of E-visa validity and the introduction of multiple-entry visas are anticipated to make Vietnam more appealing to foreign investors. These changes align with the country’s efforts to attract international investments and contribute to its economic development.

10. Where can I find more information about Vietnam’s E-visa policy?

You can find all the information about Vietnam’s E-visa policy on the official website of the relevant government authority responsible for immigration and visa matters.

11. How can travelers benefit from these changes?

Travelers planning to visit Vietnam can benefit from the extended E-visa validity by having more time to explore the country. The introduction of multiple-entry visas can also provide greater flexibility for travelers who need to enter and exit Vietnam multiple times within the visa’s validity period.