Longer-stay visas and visa waivers can have significant benefits in boosting tourism and attracting foreign investment, PATA Chairman Chris Crampton says.
“It is great news that the Vietnamese authorities have extended their visa offerings including visa-free travel increasing three-fold from 15 to 45 days.
In addition, the Vietnam e-visa stay duration for the UK and other select countries increased from 30 to 90 days.
It comes as airlift from the UK to Vietnam increases from October.
David Kevan, Director of CHIC Locations, a PATA member, said: “The immediate advantage is that travellers are encouraged to stay longer.”
“For us, Vietnam is largely sold as a multi-centre touring destination,”
“They often combine at least four places so they can now do it at a more leisurely pace.”
Thailand last year increased the visa-free travel period from 30 to 45 days over peak season.
This was also a positive step that boosted tourism and welcomed long-stay travellers for winter sun, PATA says.
Several other countries in the region have revised or extended visa free policies to attract more visitors.
It includes New Zealand, Malaysia, Japan, Singapore and South Korea.
“More flexible visa options regionally boosts tourism by enhancing regional connectivity,” Crampton added.
In more positive visa news, Australia recently increased the maximum age for their Working Holiday Visa from 30 to 35 years old.
This potentially means 16 million more Brits could live and work in Australia.
