Record Vietnam tourism fuels renewed optimism in casino sector
Vietnam has recorded its highest number of international visitors for the first 11 months of any year, underlining a strong tourism rebound that is increasingly reshaping expectations for the country’s leisure and gaming industries.
According to Vietnam’s General Statistics Office, 19.2 million foreign tourists entered the country between January and November, representing a 21 percent year-on-year increase. The figure has already surpassed the 17.6 million visitors recorded across the whole of 2024, and is also higher than the 18 million arrivals seen in 2019, before the COVID-19 pandemic.
The recovery has been driven largely by Asian markets. Mainland China remained Vietnam’s largest source of visitors, accounting for 4.8 million arrivals, followed by South Korea with 3.9 million. Tourism officials say the strength of these markets has helped stabilise demand even as global travel patterns continue to adjust following the pandemic.
Record numbers due to eased visa policy
Analysts attribute the surge to a mix of eased visa policies, sustained promotional campaigns, and major national events. Vietnam recently waived visa requirements for citizens of 12 European countries, allowing stays of up to 45 days, while authorities have stepped up overseas marketing efforts to position the country as a year-round destination.
Tourism experts say policy consistency has been crucial in sustaining momentum. The government is now targeting 23 to 25 million international visitors in 2025, signalling confidence that growth can be maintained.
Casino sector poised to benefit?
The rise in visitor numbers is expected to benefit Vietnam’s casino industry, which has traditionally relied on foreign tourists due to tight restrictions on local participation. Foreigner-only casinos, particularly those attached to integrated resorts, are likely to see increased footfall as international travel continues to recover.
At the same time, the government has begun cautiously expanding domestic access to casinos, marking a significant shift in gaming policy. Under Resolution No. 307/2025/NQ-CP, issued on 26 November 2025, Vietnam formally authorised permanent local entry at Corona Resort & Casino on Phu Quoc Island, while approving five-year pilot programmes for Vietnamese citizens at The Grand Ho Tram Resort and the planned Van Don integrated resort.
Corona had previously been the only casino allowed to admit Vietnamese nationals under a limited pilot scheme. Making that access permanent suggests authorities are satisfied with its compliance record and economic contribution. Officials say the new pilots will allow regulators to assess economic benefits, social impacts, and the effectiveness of safeguards before deciding whether to expand or restrict local access further.
Despite the easing, entry conditions remain strict. Vietnamese nationals must be at least 21 years old, meet income requirements of VND 10 million (€370) per month or higher tax thresholds, and pay entry fees of VND 1 million (€40) per day or VND 25 million (€1,010) per month. Families also retain the right to block access formally.
However, with record tourism numbers and a more flexible gaming framework, industry observers believe Vietnam’s casino and entertainment sector is entering a new phase, one shaped by cautious liberalisation and sustained international demand.
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