Vietnam achieved a record 19.15 million international visitors in the first 11 months of 2025, exceeding pre-pandemic levels. Key drivers included relaxed visa policies and significant events. Asia was the primary source, with China as the largest contributor. Experts emphasize the need to enhance visitor quality for sustainable tourism growth.
Vietnam welcomed a record 19.15 million international visitors in the first 11 months of 2025, surpassing pre-pandemic levels and exceeding the government’s full-year target, according to official data released on Saturday.
Nearly 1.98 million foreign travelers arrived in November alone, continuing the sector’s strong upward momentum, the National Statistics Office (NSO) reported.
From January to November, international arrivals rose 20.9% year-on-year, surpassing the previous peak set in 2019 and reinforcing Vietnam’s position as one of Asia’s fastest-growing tourism markets.
The NSO attributed the surge to relaxed visa policies, expanded tourism promotion efforts, and a series of large-scale cultural, sporting, and business events that have drawn international attention throughout the year.
Strong growth across markets
Visitors from Asia accounted for 79% of arrivals, around 15 million travelers, reflecting the region’s continued importance as Vietnam’s primary source market.
Europe contributed 2.4 million visitors, followed by the Americas (993,000), Oceania (549,000), and Africa (51,000).
China remained the largest source market, representing nearly 40% of total arrivals, while South Korea followed with 3.9 million visitors. Other major contributing markets included Japan, Taiwan, the U.S., India, Cambodia, and Russia.
Russia posted the highest growth rate, with arrivals increasing more than 290% year-on-year, driven by strong demand for warm coastal destinations such as Nha Trang and Phu Quoc.
Air travel continued to dominate, accounting for 85% of international arrivals.
Quality over quantity: the next phase
Tourism experts noted that while the sharp rise in arrivals is a positive indicator, the next phase of development must focus on improving visitor quality, attracting travelers who stay longer, engage more deeply with destinations, and contribute higher per-capita spending.
Australian Hospitality Alumni Network Vietnam 