New expectations for the tourism industry

In the short term, the new visa exemption policy will attract a large number of high-spending international visitors, generating direct revenue for the tourism industry.

Decree 221/2025/ND-CP (issued on August 8) has officially expanded visa exemption for special groups. The visa exemption list includes high-ranking guests; scholars, scientists , experts; high-quality digital technology human resources; investors, leaders of large enterprises; people working in culture, arts, sports, tourism with positive influence; honorary consuls and some other cases proposed by competent authorities. People granted special visa exemption cards are allowed to enter multiple times, stay for a maximum of 90 days/time, the visa exemption period is not more than 5 years and is at least 30 days shorter than the passport period...

Visas, which used to be an administrative barrier, have now been transformed into a strategic bridge. This is a “soft lever” that many developed countries have effectively utilized and Vietnam is promptly entering this game. Exploiting the natural influence of “inspirational people” such as politicians, artists, athletes, investors or global experts... will help Vietnam promote its image effectively, saving costs that can amount to millions of USD.

An international artist coming to tour, a world- class football team coming to play a friendly match, or a travel blogger with millions of followers experiencing Vietnam across the country... will create widespread, natural and almost free media effects. This is the process of building the image of a modern, open, integrated Vietnam right on social media platforms and international press.

In the short term, the new visa exemption policy will attract a large number of high-spending international visitors, generating direct revenue for the tourism industry. In the long term, it will position Vietnam as a regional cultural, sports and economic hub. Ease of entry for investors and experts will also promote investment in high-end entertainment and resort projects, improving the overall quality of tourism services.

However, opportunities always come with challenges. This special group of visa-exempt visitors has extremely high requirements for services, from speed of customs clearance, privacy, quality of accommodation, to professionalism of events. If the actual experience does not meet expectations, the policy's advantages will quickly fade and can have the opposite effect. A bad experience of a famous travel blogger can damage a country's image more than any advertising campaign can fix.

That requires the tourism industry, the government and businesses to act proactively. Policy is just an “open door”, but turning it into a “real opportunity” is a matter of preparation. Tourism businesses need to immediately design separate, high-end service packages; closely coordinate with event organizers to attract international delegations. Upgrading infrastructure, training specialized human resources and building a smooth coordination mechanism are key factors. If well utilized, international tourists will know and remember Vietnam for its large-scale cultural and sporting events and inspiring stories.

Source: https://htv.com.vn/ky-vong-moi-cho-nganh-du-lich-22225081808254693.htm