According to the rule that takes effect on January 1,
2013, the fee for applying a single-entry visa will be increased from
US$25 to $45, applicable to foreigners and those of Vietnamese origins
holding foreign passports.
The rate for multi-entry visa will
also be hiked to $65 for a period of less than one month, $95 for less
than six months, and finally, $135 for a period of above six months. The
current charges for the latter two periods are $50 and $100.
For
transfer of validity of visas or temporary residence from expired to
new passports, the fee will be US$15 instead of the current US$10.
Fees
for granting temporary residence cards will also increase by US$20.
Cards valid for up to one year, over one year to two years, and over two
years and three years will be US$80, US$100, and US$120, respectively,
Tour
operators and tourism officials fear the visa fee increase will be a
step backwards in tourism development and international integration,
while sending a negative message to travellers. They believe it will
drag down visitor arrivals during an already difficult period.
Vietnam
Tourism Association vice chairman, Vu The Binh, said the decision to
increase visa fees was untimely as the inbound tourism sector was
already experiencing hardship. “It will hinder efforts of the tourism
authorities to attract international tourists in 2013.”
In
addition, some foreign visitors from a selected group of countries will
no longer enjoy visa exemptions in 2013. Currently, Vietnam is granting
visa exemptions for citizens of ASEAN nations. Specifically, Cambodia,
Thailand, Malaysia, Singapore, Indonesia and Laos enjoy visa exemption
for a stay of up to 30 days.
This year, Vietnam should welcome 6.6 million international tourists, up 10% on last year.
Nick
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