Southeast Asian countries are considering a pioneering travel program that has the potential to revolutionize regional tourism. Thailand and Vietnam are spearheading talks on a Schengen-type visa scheme under the “Six Countries, One Destination” program to enable free movement across ASEAN countries.
The new system would enable tourists to visit several participating nations with a single visa, greatly enhancing regional connectivity and economic integration. Thai and Vietnamese authorities see this step as a game-changer for tourism, drawing more foreign tourists while streamlining red tape for visitors.
ASEAN members Cambodia, Laos, Malaysia, and Myanmar are also being urged to join this program. If successfully implemented, the system would be able to replicate the European Schengen model, and Southeast Asia would become an even more desirable and accessible holiday destination.
Though there are still challenges ahead, including the harmonization of visa policies and security measures, proponents of the plan say it has the potential to make ASEAN a stronger global tourism hub. More negotiations are anticipated as countries work out the details of this ambitious travel scheme.
