Vietnam Welcomes Russia's Visa-Free Entry for Vietnamese Citizens

Vietnam has officially welcomed Russia's decision to waive visa requirements for Vietnamese ordinary passport holders, effective from October 15, 2026. This announcement was made by Phạm Thu Hằng, spokesperson for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, during a regular press briefing.

Details of the Visa-Free Policy

The visa exemption was part of a joint statement issued during the recent state visit of Vietnam's General Secretary and State President Tô Lâm to Russia. The statement outlined measures to deepen the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership between the two countries, including efforts to enhance tourism and simplify entry procedures for travelers.

Impact on Travelers

This new policy is expected to facilitate easier travel for Vietnamese citizens wishing to visit Russia, promoting tourism and cultural exchanges. It aligns with ongoing initiatives to increase regular and charter flights between the two nations and improve labor cooperation.

Related Visa Exemption Initiatives

In a related development, Vietnam has also introduced a pilot visa exemption scheme for Chinese tour groups visiting Khánh Hòa Province. This initiative allows eligible Chinese citizens to enter Vietnam without a visa for group tours, effective from October 12, 2026, until December 31, 2027. The scheme aims to boost tourism and strengthen bilateral ties between Vietnam and China.

As these new policies roll out, Vietnamese authorities will monitor their implementation and assess their impact on tourism and bilateral relations.