 Photo: Henleyglobal.com |
On July 22, Henley & Partners released the Q3 Henley Passport Index, ranking Vietnam’s passport 84th out of 199 countries and territories. This is the most significant jump for Vietnam’s passport since Henley & Partners began evaluating passport travel freedom nearly 20 years ago.
Associate Professor Dr. Duong Van Sau, senior lecturer at the Faculty of Tourism, Hanoi University of Culture, said: "The ranking improvement reflects the recognition and growing respect for Vietnam’s global position, which is attributed to Vietnam’s open-door policies and deep international integration. It will open up new opportunities for and raise the status of Vietnamese people abroad, and expand markets for international travel companies, contributing to promoting Vietnam's tourism."
Vietnam’s improved passport ranking reflects growing international trust in Vietnam as a stable country with positive changes in its foreign policy and its rising global credibility. Vietnamese travelers are increasingly leaving a positive impression abroad. Nguyen Thanh Nga, CEO of Thang Long Tours, said: "Thanks to their polite behavior, respect for local laws and cultures, strong spending capacity and shopping experiences, Vietnamese tourists are increasingly welcomed by more countries."
Vietnamese citizens can now enter 51 countries without a conventional visa, or with just an e-visa or visa on arrival. This will pave the way for travel companies to explore new destinations.
Tao Thi Thuong, Executive Director of Hanoi International Travel Company, said: "With this policy, travel companies can expand their list of attractive foreign destinations, improve competitiveness in organizing international tours, and offer new, more distinctive travel routes and products."
The visa exemption policy also boosts cultural exchange and enhances Vietnam’s image internationally.
Pham Duy Nghia, Director of Vietfoot Travel Company, said: "Visa exemption makes it easier to enter many countries, opening up opportunities for cultural exchanges, studying abroad, and trade. Travelling overseas, Vietnamese travelers will help promote Vietnam’s image to the world."
Besides the entry–exit policy, data digitization, national safety, and friendly people are also important factors in improving Vietnam’s passport ranking.