E-visas at 41 border gates: A major step towards an "open gateway" for tourism and investment.

Policy breakthroughs and the "open gateway" effect

Vietnam's decision to expand the application of electronic visas (E-visas) to foreign citizens at 41 international border gates, including air, land, and sea ports, is a strategic policy breakthrough, reflecting the government's strong determination to reform administrative procedures and enhance national competitiveness. This is considered a significant shift from a "restricted gateway" model to an "open gateway" model, promptly responding to the trend of integration and the requirements of post-pandemic economic recovery.

This decision, concretized through government resolutions and directives, is not merely an addition to a list of destinations, but a clear declaration of Vietnam's welcome to international tourists and investors. Previously, the limited number of border crossings allowing entry via e-visa created significant barriers and inconveniences, especially for tourists wishing to explore regions that were not major tourist centers.

With the widespread adoption of e-visas, travelers can complete the entire process online, quickly and transparently.

According to economic experts, the expansion of border gates accepting E-visas has created a strong ripple effect across many sectors, from tourism and investment to administrative reform, contributing to strengthening the image of a more open and modern Vietnam in the eyes of the international community.

For the tourism industry, convenience in immigration procedures is always a decisive factor. With the widespread application of e-visas, tourists can complete the entire process online, quickly and transparently, minimizing waiting time at airports or border crossings. This not only helps increase the number of international tourists but also facilitates the distribution of tourists to many emerging localities with great potential but lacking convenient connections. Many businesses consider this a crucial "boost" for the recovery and breakthrough of Vietnamese tourism.

In the field of attracting foreign investment, e-visas also create a significant competitive advantage. Investors and international experts who frequently travel to survey and monitor projects will receive maximum support as entry procedures become easier, especially at border gates near industrial zones. Saving time and travel costs contributes to strengthening the image of a friendly and flexible investment environment, helping Vietnam stand firm in regional competition regarding the quality of administrative services.

From a government perspective, the expansion of e-visas marks a significant step in the digital transformation of immigration procedures. Gradually replacing the traditional paper-based management model with a data and technology platform improves operational efficiency, increases transparency, and strengthens border security control in a smarter way. This also forms the foundation for building a modern, synchronized management system that better serves citizens and businesses.

In particular, economic experts unanimously agree that the expanded E-visa policy is a powerful "lever," not only aimed at the short-term goal of increasing tourist numbers but also at the long-term goal of repositioning Vietnam as a leading open, modern, and convenient destination in the region.

Synchronizing technological infrastructure and human resources, moving towards a smart border.

Expanding the E-visa policy to 41 international border gates is a success in terms of policy implementation, but the biggest challenge now lies in synchronizing technical infrastructure and improving the quality of immigration services at all these points. If the policy is implemented but the infrastructure does not keep pace, the actual effectiveness will be significantly reduced.

The expansion of e-visas marks a significant step in the digital transformation of immigration procedures.

The nationwide rollout of e-visas requires a stable and smooth-operating information technology system at border crossings, from major international airports to smaller road checkpoints. Even a minor technical glitch can cause congestion, disrupt the process of receiving international visitors, and directly affect the effectiveness of the policy.

Alongside technological requirements, the human factor also plays a crucial role. Border guards and customs officers at border crossings need to be fully equipped with the skills to use electronic devices, understand the E-visa process, and possess a professional communication style.

According to many international travel businesses, a tourist's first experience at the immigration area is the most important "touchpoint," shaping the impression of the destination's friendliness and modernity.

A traveler's first experience at the immigration area is the most important "touchpoint".

In the context of globalization, countries are accelerating the development of smart border models. Therefore, expanding e-visa services is not just about procedural reforms, but also about creating a foundation for Vietnam to achieve many new breakthroughs.

One of the anticipated directions is the development of automated gate control systems at major airports, allowing holders of electronic documents to self-check-in without direct contact with security personnel. This solution would significantly shorten processing times and increase service capacity during peak periods.

Furthermore, integrating online payment methods for all fees and services related to immigration and emigration will contribute to completing the digital public service chain, maximizing convenience for citizens and businesses. When data between ministries and agencies is interconnected, from security and customs to tourism, a modern management ecosystem will be formed, better supporting governance and economic development.

The tourism and aviation business communities expect that processing times for applications can be further shortened in the future, while expanding the scope of application to key markets, moving towards more flexible policies. The combination of procedural reforms and synchronized digital transformation is seen as key to Vietnam accelerating its attraction of tourists and investors, creating a competitive advantage in the region. This is an inevitable shift, but it also requires systematic and continuous investment to transform the potential of policies into tangible results, making a practical contribution to economic growth and enhancing the national image.

Source: https://vtv.vn/e-visa-tai-41-cua-khau-buoc-tien-lon-sang-cua-ngo-mo-cho-du-lich-va-dau-tu-100251205221823744.htm