Southeast Asia remains the “safe zone”

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Southeast Asian destinations such as Thailand and Singapore remain popular with Vietnamese travelers thanks to visa-free entry policies. Photo: F.P

Southeast Asia continues to be the most convenient region for Vietnamese travelers, with most countries offering visa-free stays ranging from 14 to 30 days. Familiar destinations such as Singapore, Thailand, Malaysia, Indonesia, Cambodia, and Laos remain top choices thanks to their proximity, reasonable costs, and open entry policies.

Thanks to bilateral and regional agreements, Vietnamese travelers typically only need a valid passport, a return ticket, and sometimes proof of accommodation to enter these countries without undergoing complex visa procedures.

Asia and the Middle East expand access

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Chile, home to attractions like Lauca National Park, is among the countries offering visa-free travel for Vietnamese visitors. Photo: F.P

Beyond Southeast Asia, several countries across Asia and the Middle East are easing entry requirements. Kazakhstan and Kyrgyzstan allow visa-free stays of up to 30 days, while Maldives and Nepal offer visas on arrival with simple procedures. South Korea grants visa exemptions for Vietnamese travelers flying directly to Jeju Island.

Some destinations such as the UAE or Taiwan (China) apply e-visa systems or conditional visa exemptions, often requiring travelers to have previously held visas from developed countries. These policies are seen as stepping stones toward accessing more restrictive markets.

Latin America and the Caribbean open doors

Although less prominent, Latin America and the Caribbean offer relatively flexible entry policies for Vietnamese citizens. Under bilateral agreements, Panama allows stays of up to 90 days, while Chile and Barbados also permit 90-day visits without prior visas.

Several island nations such as Dominica and Haiti provide short-term visa exemptions, enabling longer, multi-destination journeys across the region.

Pacific island nations offer flexible policies

Small island countries in Oceania, including Micronesia, Samoa, and Palau, maintain flexible visa policies, typically granting visa-free entry or visas on arrival. Despite long travel distances and higher costs, these destinations appeal to travelers seeking unique experiences.

Eastern Europe and special visa exemptions

In Eastern Europe, Belarus stands out as a country offering visa-free entry for Vietnamese citizens. The policy allows stays of up to 30 days per visit and a maximum of 90 days per year under a bilateral agreement effective from January 30, 2025.

Entry requirements still apply

While visa exemptions simplify travel, they do not mean unrestricted entry. Vietnamese travelers must still meet basic requirements such as having a passport valid for at least six months, return or onward tickets, and, in some cases, proof of financial means or accommodation bookings.

Entry policies may also change depending on global developments, making it essential for travelers to check updated regulations before departure.

The growing number of visa-free destinations reflects a gradual improvement in the global standing of the Vietnamese passport. Although there remains a gap compared to developed countries, the expanding list of accessible destinations is making international travel more attainable than ever for Vietnamese citizens.

Thu Hien