Vietnam considers special visas for remote workers, medical tourists

Vietnam is considering special visa arrangements for foreign remote workers and medical tourists as part of a proposed tourism development plan aimed at attracting higher-spending visitors and encouraging longer stays.

Its Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism reportedly presented the draft resolution to Vietnam’s National Assembly on November 7, proposing more flexible entry and residence policies for selected groups of international visitors.

Under the proposal, Vietnam would pilot special arrangements for foreigners working remotely, as well as visitors seeking medical examinations, treatment, rehabilitation, and long-term healthcare, along with their accompanying family members.

The government also wants to expand bilateral visa exemptions for key tourism markets and prioritize visitors who spend more, stay longer, return frequently, or attend international conferences and seminars.

The proposal could benefit Filipinos seeking extended stays in Vietnam for work or healthcare, although the proposed measures have yet to take effect.

Filipino ordinary passport holders can currently visit Vietnam without a visa for up to 21 days under existing arrangements, according to the Vietnam National Authority of Tourism.

Vietnam has also become an increasingly popular destination for Philippine travelers, receiving 482,173 Filipino visitors in 2025, up 81.3% from the previous year.

The number climbed further to 579,199 in the first 10 months of 2026, a 52.4% increase from the same period last year, according to Vietnam’s tourism authority.

Beyond visa reforms, the draft includes investment incentives for tourism projects, support for new air routes, workforce training, and pilot programs for entertainment and cultural tourism developments.

The National Assembly is expected to vote on the proposed resolution on November 21. If approved, it would take effect in 2027 and remain in force for 10 years.