Russia is exploring visa free entry for Vietnamese tour groups, a move that could significantly boost two way tourism and deepen travel ties between the two countries.
The proposal, outlined by Russia’s Minister of Economic Development Maxim Reshetnikov, reflects growing interest in attracting visitors from Southeast Asia, particularly Vietnam’s fast expanding middle class.
A strategic push to attract Vietnamese travelers
Russia sees Vietnam as a high potential outbound market, driven by strong economic growth, a large population, and increasing demand for international travel.
Under the proposed policy, Vietnamese tourists traveling in organized groups could be granted visa exemptions, making trips more accessible and reducing administrative barriers.
The initiative is part of a broader effort to promote Russia as a destination across Southeast Asia through campaigns such as “Discover Russia.”
Strong growth potential despite current gap
Currently, the flow of tourists between the two countries is uneven.
Vietnam receives around 600,000 Russian visitors annually, while only about 15,000 Vietnamese travelers visit Russia each year. However, recent trends suggest strong momentum.
In the first two months of 2026 alone, nearly 250,000 Russian tourists visited Vietnam, more than triple the figure from the same period last year.
Industry experts believe that easing visa requirements could help narrow this gap significantly.
Industry expects sharp increase in demand
Travel operators say demand is already rising.
According to one major Vietnamese tour company, outbound travel to Russia has increased by around 30 percent year on year. If visa free group travel is implemented, the number of Vietnamese visitors could grow by 40 to 60 percent in the following year.
Tour packages typically include major cities such as Moscow and Saint Petersburg, with visits to iconic landmarks including Red Square, the Kremlin, and the Winter Palace.
A competitive visa advantage
Russia already offers relatively accessible visa procedures compared to destinations such as Europe or North America.
Vietnamese travelers can apply for an electronic visa, with faster processing times and higher approval rates than many Western visa systems.
Further easing requirements through group visa exemptions would strengthen Russia’s competitive position in attracting Vietnamese tourists.
The bottom line
Russia’s consideration of visa free group travel signals intensifying competition for outbound tourists in Asia.
For Vietnam’s growing middle class, the move could make Russia a more accessible and appealing destination.
If implemented, the policy has the potential to unlock a new wave of travel, strengthening tourism flows and economic ties between the two countries.
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