Foreign tourists visit the Temple of Literature in Hanoi

Vietnam began to issue online visas on January 1. The policy offers simple procedures for foreigners to travel to Vietnam as tourists or on business. Nguyen Van Tuan, General Director of the Vietnam National Administration of Tourism, says the e-visa is one of the government’s measures to boost tourism. “E-visa applicants will receive a reply within 3 days. An e-visa has a validity period of 30 days. Tourists from any country can apply for an e-visa without a letter of guarantee or invitation.”

Vietnam accommodated 10 million foreign tourists and 60 million domestic tourists last year. Tourism companies have improved their services and trained their staff. Nguyen Tien Dat, Deputy Director of Transviet Ha Noi, told VOV: “We organize regular training courses for our staff on professional etiquette and how to boost Vietnam’s image. We discuss how to effectively introduce Vietnam’s attractions and culture to tourists so they will understand and respect the local customs.”

The Ministry of Culture, Sports, and Tourism have issued Tourism Etiquette Guides consisting of rules for appropriate conduct by tourists and tourism staff.