Vietnam Debuts Preferential Visa Reforms to Attract...

Vietnam is transitioning to a high-value tourism model by introducing preferential visa reforms for remote workers and long-stay travelers, aiming to lift average visitor spend past the current USD 1,400 per trip.

The Local Trend: Preferential Visa Reforms

Vietnam is preparing a shift in its international tourism strategy. By introducing preferential visa policies, the government aims to target higher-spending travelers, remote professionals, and digital nomads. This framework marks a transition away from a high-volume arrival model to a quality-driven strategy, generating greater economic value from every international visitor.

This policy shift follows a period of strong international visitor growth. The country welcomed a record 21.2 million international travelers in 2025, representing a 20.4% increase compared to the previous year. Arrivals continued to rise in 2026, reaching nearly 13.92 million visitors during the first seven months of the year, an increase of 13.8%. Alongside proposed visa reforms, authorities are planning to introduce compulsory travel insurance requirements for all foreign visitors to establish a safer, more structured travel environment.

Increasing Spending Through Duty-Free and Regional Hubs

International travelers currently spend an estimated USD 1,200 to USD 1,400 per trip in Vietnam. To increase this economic yield, the government is targeting high-value markets, including North America, Australia, Northern Europe, and the Middle East. Strategic initiatives include expanding value-added tax (VAT) refund options at major shopping centers, establishing premium duty-free retail, and building high-end shopping streets in key destinations.

The country has identified four major regional centers to drive this premium expansion:

Hanoi: The cultural and heritage gateway, offering historical attractions and access to northern nature reserves.
Ho Chi Minh City: The key commercial and business travel hub, supported by high international connectivity.
Da Nang: The leading coastal travel hub, combining beach resorts with access to central heritage sites.
Phu Quoc: Positioned as a premium international resort destination for luxury travel and high-value leisure events.

Vietnam's Multi-Decade Tourism Strategy and Targets (2030-2045)

Planning Window / Target	Projected Volume Metric	Expected Economic Contribution	Strategic Priority Areas
Current Average Spend	USD 1,200 to USD 1,400	Baseline regional tourism yield	Traditional sightseeing and short stays
2030 Tourism Targets	45M to 50M international arrivals	USD 80B to USD 90B total revenue	Compulsory travel insurance, digital nomad pilot
2030 GDP Contribution	Direct 10% to 12% share	Major recurring income driver	High-speed rail, cruise terminal infrastructure
2045 Long-Term Target	70M international arrivals	Top 30 competitive tourism ranking	High-end duty-free shopping, luxury events

Regional Economic Impacts and Infrastructure

By encouraging longer stays, Vietnam aims to increase sustainable tourism revenue. Unlike short-stay travelers, remote professionals spend consistently across multiple local sectors, including long-term housing, domestic cafes, regional transport, and neighborhood services, dispersing capital directly to local communities.

To support these goals, the government is investing in transport infrastructure, including aviation networks, railways, highways, and deep-water cruise ports. Expanding cruise terminals capable of welcoming large vessels will allow the country to capture a larger share of Asia-Pacific maritime tourism.

Destination Specialist Local Insider Tips

To help travelers plan their visits to Vietnam, local travel specialists recommend the following insider tips:

Plan Your Base in Regional Hubs: If working remotely, choose Hanoi for heritage and cafe culture, or Da Nang for a beachside workspace with excellent fiber connectivity.
Utilize VAT Refund Stations: Save receipts from approved retail shops and process your value-added tax refunds at major international exit ports like Noi Bai or Tan Son Nhat.
Secure Compulsory Travel Insurance: Purchase compliant travel insurance showing coverage for medical and evacuation fees before your flight departure.
Explore Phu Quoc for Luxury Escapes: Visit Phu Quoc during the dry season (November to April) for world-class eco-resorts and direct international flight access.
Monitor Digital Nomad Pilot Updates: Keep in touch with local consulates for the official rollout of the remote work visa guidelines to secure multi-month stays legally.

Future Outlook

By implementing preferential visa policies, upgrading transport links, and targeting high-spending travelers, Vietnam aims to welcome 45 million to 50 million international visitors by 2030, generating up to USD 90 billion in revenue. The long-term plan targets 70 million international arrivals by 2045, positioning the country among the world's top 30 most competitive travel destinations.