Vietnam tourism arrivals hit 19.5 million in first ten months of 2026
Vietnam's international tourist arrivals reached 19.5 million in the first ten months of 2026. The figures, released by the Vietnam National Authority of Tourism, show a 13.8 percent increase over the same period last year and affect travelers from Asia, Europe and other global regions.
In this story
At a glance
- What changes
- International arrivals rose to 19.5 million in Jan‑Oct 2026
- Timing
- Data cover January to October 2026
- Who is affected
- Travelers from Europe, Asia and other regions visiting Vietnam
The details
- Announced by
- Vietnam National Authority of Tourism (VNAT)
Overall tourism growth
Vietnam welcomed 19.5 million foreign visitors between January and October 2026, marking a 13.8 percent rise compared with the same period in 2025. The surge reflects the country's expanding appeal to both regional and long‑haul markets.
- 19.5 million arrivals Jan‑Oct 2026
- 13.8 % increase over 2025
- Growth driven by Europe, Asia and other regions
Regional source markets
Asia remained the dominant source, delivering roughly 14.6 million visitors, about three‑quarters of total arrivals. Europe contributed 3.22 million, a 51.5 percent jump year‑on‑year, while the Americas added around 1.04 million and Oceania 602,700. Russia emerged as the leading European market with 1.25 million arrivals.
- China: 4.4 million arrivals
- South Korea: 3.4 million arrivals
- Russia: 1.25 million arrivals
- Poland, Switzerland, Sweden also showed strong growth
Future targets and promotion
By the end of October, Vietnam had achieved about 78 percent of its 25‑million annual target, leaving a gap of roughly 5.5 million visitors. Authorities aim for an average of 2.75 million arrivals per month in November and December, focusing promotional efforts on China, the Republic of Korea, India and Russia.
The continued expansion of direct international flights and favourable visa policies are expected to support the push toward the year‑end goal.
- Target: 25 million arrivals in 2026
- Need ~2.75 million arrivals per month Nov‑Dec
- Key promotion markets: China, South Korea, India, Russia
What this means for travellers
Trip planning
- Existing bookings remain valid; no entry requirement changes reported for travelers.
- Higher visitor numbers may increase competition for accommodation in popular destinations during peak months.
Cost and documents
- Visa fees and required documentation stay unchanged according to current policies.
- Travel insurance recommendations remain the same as before.
What you need to do
- No new paperwork is needed for travelers heading to Vietnam.
- Monitor accommodation availability if traveling during November‑December.
Who this affects
-
European tourists
Europe delivered a 51.5 percent increase and added over one million extra arrivals.
-
Asian tourists
Asia supplied the largest share with 14.6 million visitors, nearly three‑quarters of total arrivals.
-
Long‑haul travelers (e.g., United States, Australia)
Long‑haul markets contributed significant growth, supporting Vietnam's diversification beyond regional sources.
-
Southeast Asian neighbours
Countries such as the Philippines and Cambodia showed strong percentage gains, reinforcing regional tourism links.
Frequently asked questions
How many international tourists visited Vietnam in 2026?
Vietnam recorded 19.5 million international arrivals from January to October 2026, according to the Vietnam National Authority of Tourism.
Which country was Vietnam's biggest source of tourists in 2026?
China remained the largest source, contributing nearly 4.4 million visitors during the first ten months of 2026.
What was the growth rate of European visitors to Vietnam in 2026?
European arrivals grew by 51.5 percent in the January‑October 2026 period, the fastest regional increase recorded.
What is Vietnam's target for international arrivals in 2026?
The government set an ambitious goal of 25 million international visitors for the full year 2026.
Which markets are being promoted for the remainder of 2026?
Tourism authorities plan continued promotion in China, the Republic of Korea, India and Russia to help close the remaining visitor gap.
Did visa requirements change for travelers to Vietnam in 2026?
No new visa requirements were announced; existing visa policies and fees remain in effect.
