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The 30-day visa exemption policy for international visitors to Phu Quoc has been regarded as a breakthrough measure that has helped promote tourism development on the island. However, many experts believe that the policy should be further expanded in order to make better use of Phu Quoc’s advantages and support tourism growth across the Mekong Delta region.

National Assembly deputies have proposed introducing a special “cultural visa” or “creative card” for foreign experts, international artists, and leading heritage managers participating in cultural industry projects in Vietnam.

These updates reflect Vietnam’s efforts to support tourism recovery, promote international integration, and modernize immigration procedures. The following are the key points travellers should note when entering Vietnam in 2026.

The Government has just issued Decree No. 327/2025/NĐ-CP, providing for special entry, exit, and residence policies for foreigners working at the International Financial Center in Vietnam. The Decree allows for the issuance of long-term visas and temporary residence cards, as well as consideration for permanent residence for eligible preferential categories.

Visa policy, cultural diplomacy, and the promotion of trade and economic exchange were among the key issues that drew questions from National Assembly deputies to Minister of Foreign Affairs Bùi Thanh Sơn.

Thanks to stronger administrative reform and digital transformation in the field of immigration, the long-standing situation of people waiting in long lines to apply for passports has now been completely eliminated. The online passport issuance rate has reached 98%, helping improve service quality while reducing time and costs for citizens and organizations.

From April 1, 2026, foreign nationals in special categories entitled to preferential treatment in support of socio-economic development will be exempt from visa issuance fees.

This Circular sets out the fee and charge payers, the fee- and charge-collecting authorities, and the rates, collection, and payment regime for fees and charges in the field of exit, entry, transit, and residence in Vietnam. These include passport, laissez-passer, exit permit, and “AB” stamp issuance charges, as well as visa fees and fees for other documents valid for exit, entry, and residence for foreigners.

The Vietnamese passport has risen by 6 places in the global passport ranking compared with the ranking issued in December 2025, and is now ranked 84th in the world. At present, Vietnamese citizens can travel to 48 destinations worldwide without having to apply for a visa in advance.

A new proposal concerning Phu Quoc’s visa policy has drawn attention in Vietnam’s tourism sector. According to information presented at a visa policy workshop, representatives from Kien Giang’s tourism industry proposed extending visa-free entry for international visitors to Phu Quoc to up to 180 days in order to improve competitiveness and support tourism growth.