Vietnam Unveils New Visa-Free Access and Strategic Exemptions

Vietnam is stepping up its global outreach with a fresh visa‑free policy and bespoke exemptions designed to boost tourism, attract talent, and forge strategic partnerships.

Expanded Visa-Free Travel for 12 European Nations

Starting August 15, 2025, citizens of these 12 countries can now enter Vietnam without a visa for up to 45 days:

• Belgium, Bulgaria, Croatia, Czech Republic, Hungary, Luxembourg, Netherlands, Poland, Romania, Slovakia, Slovenia, Switzerland.
  
  

The initiative, authorized via Resolution 229/NQ‑CP (August 8, 2025), will run through August 14, 2028 as part of a broader tourism stimulus program.

Notably, the older visa‑free arrangement for Poland, Czech Republic, and Switzerland (Resolution No. 11/NQ‑CP from January 15, 2025) will be replaced by this more comprehensive and streamlined policy.

Targeted Waivers for VIPs, Experts, and Cultural Ambassadors

Simultaneously, Decree 221/2025/ND‑CP, also issued on August 8, 2025, introduces special visa exemptions for specific individuals whose presence aligns with Vietnam’s strategic ambitions—including:

• Guests invited by top national leaders (e.g., President, PM).

• High‑level government or international organization officials.

• Academics, scientists, and digital‑tech experts.

• Key investors and business executives.

• Prominent figures in arts, sports, and culture.

• Honorary consuls and invitees of major universities, research institutes, or corporations.

• Other individuals approved by the Ministry of Public Security for economic/diplomatic purposes.

These targeted exemptions support alignment with Vietnam’s socio-economic and diplomatic development goals.

What This Means for B2B Travel Professionals

• Streamlined offerings for European partners: New markets benefit from hassle-free 45-day visa-free access—ideal for tour packages, corporate retreats, and curated cultural trips.

• Enhanced engagement with key stakeholders: Academics, tech talent, investors, and creatives can be invited under streamlined visa terms—enhancing conference planning, talent placement, and executive visits.

• New revenue opportunities: Agents and airlines can promote Vietnam as a low-touch, high-reward destination—especially in Europe—for both leisure and business travel.

• Strategic positioning: Align your brand with this wave of openness—position Vietnam as a forward-looking, well-connected destination for sustainable group travel, innovation tours, and cultural exchanges.

Conclusion & Key Takeaway

Vietnam’s dual-track visa policy—opening doors to European tourists while offering bespoke exemptions to global influencers—signals a smart and deliberate pivot toward growth, collaboration, and inbound investment. For B2B travel agents, consolidators, airlines, and corporate planners, this presents a prime moment to adapt services, create tailored packages, and deepen strategic relationships with European markets and high-impact visitors.

Stay Connected with the Travel Community.

Follow our updates at blog.agentbazar.in and transform how you support your clients at every stage of travel.