Vietnam Expands Visa-Free Travel to 12 More Countries, Adds Special Waivers

Starting August 15, 2025, Vietnam will allow citizens from 12 new countries to enter visa-free that too for 45 days. At the same time, a new policy grants special visa exemptions to scholars, tech experts, business leaders, and cultural figures whose presence supports Vietnam’s strategic goals.

Let’s break down what the new policy means for travellers from the new visa-free countries travelling to Vietnam.

Visa-Free Entry for 12 European Countries

If you are travelling from one of the following countries, Vietnam has just become a more convenient destination to include on your itinerary.

1. Belgium
2. Bulgaria
3. Croatia
4. the Czech Republic
5. Hungary
6. Luxembourg
7. the Netherlands
8. Poland
9. Romania
10. Slovakia
11. Slovenia
12. Switzerland

From mid-August 2025, travellers from these countries can visit Vietnam for up to 45 days without the usual visa hassles. This change streamlines the entry process and opens the door to more spontaneous, flexible travel.

This applies regardless of passport type and is part of Vietnam’s broader tourism development push, valid through August 14, 2028.

If you’re from Poland, Czech Republic, or Switzerland, you may already be enjoying visa-free access under a separate resolution passed earlier this year. Just know that the older rule, Resolution No. 11/NQ-CP (January 2025), will be replaced by this new one on August 15, 2025.

Visa Waivers for High-Value Visitors

On the same day the new tourism rule was approved, the Vietnamese government also issued Decree No. 221/2025/ND-CP, outlining a different kind of visa waiver. This one isn’t about mass tourism, it’s aimed at specific foreign nationals whose visit aligns with Vietnam’s economic or diplomatic interests.

So who qualifies? Here’s the breakdown:

1. Invited by Vietnam’s Top Leaders: If you’re personally invited by the President, Prime Minister, or other top officials, you’re in.

2. Senior Government or Global Org Officials: High-ranking officials from other governments or major international organisations also qualify.

3. Experts, Scientists, and Tech Pros: This includes researchers, university professors, and top talent in digital and high-tech industries.

4. Big Investors and Business Execs: CEOs, founders, or major investors from global companies can enter under this waiver too.

5. Famous Artists, Athletes, and Cultural Figures: If you’ve got global influence in arts, sports, or entertainment, Vietnam wants you on the list.

6. Honorary Consuls of Vietnam: People officially representing Vietnam overseas, even in unpaid roles, are also eligible.

7. Invited by Major Universities or Companies: If a top university, research institute, or big Vietnamese company invites you, that counts too.

In some cases, the Ministry of Public Security can grant visa-free entry to individuals deemed beneficial to the country’s strategic goals, even if they’re not on the predefined list.

What This Means for Travellers

If you’re a European traveller from one of the 12 countries listed, the new 45-day visa-free rule simplifies things. No paperwork. No fees. Just fly in and enjoy.

For others working in academia, business, or cultural industries, it’s worth checking if you qualify for a visa waiver under the special category.

Vietnam’s recent changes show a clear strategy: grow tourism, attract talent, and build global partnerships, all while maintaining control over who gets fast-tracked in.