The new list excludes earlier beneficiaries, namely the US, Germany, Russia, France, Japan, South Korea, and the UK. The Decree stipulates several border gates where e-visas are applicable, including International border gates Tay Trang in Dien Bien province, Na Meo in Thanh Hoa province, La Lay in Quang Tri province, Duong Dong port in Kien Giang province, and Chan May port in Thua Thien-Hue province. Vietnam now has 16 land boder gates and 9 sea border gates that permit immigration by e-visa.

Minister and Head of the Government Office Mai Tien Dung (Photo: Zing.vn)

Minister and Head of the Government Office, Mai Tien Dung, said the e-visa program reflects the government’s strong commitment in immigration procedures reform. He added:“The e-visa program has boosted the number of tourist arrivals to Vietnam. Besides positive visa policy, active tourism promotion programs have maintained an annual increase of 30% in tourist arrivals.”

The new decree will take effect for two years, starting on February 1. The National Assembly has extended the pilot e-visa program for another 2 years until 2021 on time for amendment schedule of the Law on Immigration, Transit and Residence.