Vietnam grants visa exemption to Chinese tour groups visiting Khanh Hoa
The trial runs until 31 December 2027 and covers groups of at least two arriving directly at Cam Ranh International Airport.
Vietnam’s government approved a visa-exemption trial on 12 October for Chinese nationals visiting Khanh Hoa Province in tour groups. Travellers must arrive on direct flights to Cam Ranh International Airport, with at least two people in each group. The arrangement lasts until 31 December 2027.
China was Vietnam’s biggest overseas visitor market during the first nine months of 2026. Arrivals from China reached about 3.95 million, accounting for 22.3% of international visitors.
Thai Thi Le Hang, director of Khanh Hoa’s Department of Culture, Sports and Tourism, said the province’s Chinese visitor market had recovered more slowly since the pandemic than its South Korean and Russian markets. She said fewer visa procedures would help travel agencies develop all-inclusive packages.
Martin Koerner, commercial director of The Anam Group, said the exemption could encourage additional charter services and organised tours. He suggested extending similar arrangements to Da Nang and Lam Dong, where Da Lat is located, if the trial succeeds.
Justin Matthew Pang, senior programme manager for tourism and hospitality management at RMIT University Vietnam, urged a thorough assessment of the Khanh Hoa trial’s appeal and limitations before any wider opening.
