Vietnam has approved a temporary visa exemption for Chinese citizens traveling in groups under a new government resolution. The policy, outlined in Resolution 325/NQ-CP signed on October 12, 2026, applies to holders of ordinary Chinese passports (excluding Hong Kong and Macao SAR passports) visiting as part of organized tour packages during the Vietnam-China Tourism Cooperation Year 2026-2027. The exemption covers travel to Khanh Hoa Province exclusively, with entry and exit restricted to Cam Ranh International Airport via direct flights from mainland China. Entry and exit must occur through the same airport, with no alternative ports permitted. This requirement ensures streamlined border procedures and facilitates coordinated monitoring of tourist movements.
The exemption applies only to groups of two or more travelers participating in package tours arranged by Vietnamese international travel enterprises. The policy is set to remain in effect until December 31, 2027, aligning with the tourism cooperation initiative between the two countries. The visa exemption policy takes effect immediately upon signing of the resolution and remains valid through December 31, 2027, with no provision for extension beyond this period.
The resolution specifies strict conditions for participation: tourists must enter and exit through the same airport, and travel must be arranged by approved Vietnamese tour operators. The exemption does not extend to individual travelers or those using other entry points. This targeted approach reflects Vietnam’s focus on controlled tourism growth during the designated cooperation period. Additionally, flights must operate directly between mainland China and Cam Ranh International Airport, excluding transit stops or connections through third countries.
Implementation will be overseen by the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism, which is tasked with drafting procedural guidelines within 30 days. The ministry will also manage the selection and oversight of participating travel enterprises, while coordinating with local authorities in Khanh Hoa. The Ministry of Public Security will provide guidance on entry, exit, and residency procedures for exempted travelers. The Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism will also coordinate with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs to intensify promotional activities, ensuring the policy achieves maximum effectiveness in attracting Chinese tourists.