Visa Easy, Vibes Easier—Indians Flock to Vietnam as Red Tape Trips Europe

Image Source: Flamingo Travels

Vietnam has emerged as a top international destination for Indian tourists, outpacing traditional European hotspots. With over 500,000 Indians visiting Vietnam in the past year alone, the country’s affordability, cultural richness, and simplified travel logistics are making it the go-to choice for both leisure and corporate travel.

What’s Driving the Shift?

Affordability Over Euro-Zone Prices Vietnam offers 15–20% lower travel costs compared to Europe, with budget-friendly hotels, food, and transport.
Direct Flights & Easy Visas Regular direct flights from Delhi, Mumbai, Bengaluru, and Kolkata to Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City, plus e-visa and visa-on-arrival options, make Vietnam more accessible than Schengen countries.
Diverse Experiences in One Trip From Train Street in Hanoi to beachfront hot pot dinners in Da Nang, Vietnam offers a mix of adventure, history, and serenity.
Spiritual & Cultural Resonance Shared Buddhist heritage and spiritual sites like Linh Ung Pagoda and Temple of Literature appeal to Indian travelers seeking meaningful journeys.
Corporate Retreats & MICE Tourism Indian companies like Sun Pharma have organized massive employee tours to Vietnam, with over 4,500 staff visiting in August 2024, highlighting Vietnam’s rise as a corporate travel hub.
Food That Feels Familiar Vegetarian-friendly options, Indian restaurants, and customizable meals like Vietnamese Hot Pot (Lau) cater to Indian dietary preferences.

Tourism Trends & Stats

231% increase in Indian visitors to Vietnam in 2023 compared to 20193
India now ranks among Vietnam’s top 10 source markets for international tourists
Vietnam welcomed 23,000 Indian tourists in H1 2025, up 164% YoY

Why Not Europe?

Cumbersome Visa Processes Schengen and UK visas require extensive paperwork, long wait times, and limited flexibility for spontaneous travel
Last-Minute Planning Habits Indian travelers typically plan trips within 30 days, making destinations with easy entry like Vietnam more attractive

Sources: Rediff, Times Now, Vietnam Economic Times, Vivutravel, New Indian Express