Vietnam has announced a significant update to its visa policy, granting citizens of 12 countries visa-free entry for stays of up to 45 days, regardless of passport type. This new measure, designed to boost inbound tourism, will be in effect from August 15, 2025 to August 14, 2028 under the Government’s tourism promotion and development programme.

According to Resolution No. 229/NQ-CP issued on August 8, 2025, this policy applies to citizens of:
 

   •   Belgium

   •   Bulgaria

   •   Croatia

   •   Czech Republic

   •   Hungary

   •   Luxembourg

   •   Netherlands

   •   Poland

   •   Romania

   •   Slovakia

   •   Slovenia

   •   Switzerland

This expansion builds on Vietnam’s ongoing efforts to make travel more accessible for international visitors. With this update, eligible travelers from these countries can enter Vietnam without a visa and stay for up to 45 days per visit, making it easier for them to enjoy the country’s diverse cultural, natural, and culinary attractions.

Policy Updates and Replacements
The new policy will replace the earlier Resolution No. 11/NQ-CP dated January 15, 2025, which granted shorter visa waivers to citizens of Poland, the Czech Republic, and Switzerland. That resolution will become invalid from August 15, 2025, as the new 45-day waiver takes effect for a wider group of countries.

Eligible individuals include:

   •   Distinguished guests invited by Vietnam’s top leaders, such as the General Secretary of the Communist Party, the State President, the Chair of the National Assembly, and the Prime Minister.

   •   Scholars, scientists, university professors, chief engineers, and leading professionals in digital technology.

   •   High-profile investors, corporate executives from the world’s largest companies, and individuals with notable influence in culture, arts, sports, and tourism.

   •   Vietnam’s honorary consuls abroad, as well as guests of approved research institutes, universities, and large enterprises.

   •   Any other individuals approved by the Minister of Public Security for diplomatic or socio-economic purposes.

Impact for Travel and Tourism
For partners in the travel and tourism industry, this update opens exciting opportunities to attract more visitors from Europe and beyond. Longer visa-free stays allow travelers more time to explore Vietnam’s diverse destinations—from the heritage towns of Hội An and Huế, to the mountain landscapes of Sapa and Hà Giang, to the bustling cities of Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City.

Aurora Travel & DMC is delighted by this positive development and looks forward to working with partners to design extended itineraries that make the most of the 45-day visa-free period. This policy is expected to boost arrival numbers, encourage repeat visits, and strengthen Vietnam’s position as one of Southeast Asia’s most welcoming destinations.

For more information about travel programs for visa-exempt markets, please feel free to contact our team.