A Schengen for Southeast Asia? Thailand, Vietnam dream big

Manila: What if you could hop between Thailand, Vietnam, Cambodia, Laos, Malaysia, and Myanmar with just one visa — just like in Europe?

That’s exactly what Thailand is pitching, and Vietnam is all ears.

During his official visit to Vietnam from February 23-25, Thai Foreign Minister Maris Sangiampongsa met with Vietnamese Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh to talk business — specifically, the business of booming tourism.

Their key focus: Strengthening regional travel ties under the "Six Countries, One Destination" initiative.

The idea is simple but game-changing: a single visa for six countries, allowing tourists to move freely across borders without the hassle of multiple permits.

If implemented, it could transform the region into a travel powerhouse, much like the Schengen Zone in Europe.

Thailand welcomed 35.5 million tourists last year — a 26 per cent increase from the previous year, thanks to relaxed visa policies.

Meanwhile, Vietnam pulled in 17.6 million international visitors in 2024, edging closer to pre-pandemic levels.

Malaysia itself welcomed 38 million tourists — far exceeding previous projections, according to local media.

Imagine the boost if travellers could easily explore all six nations in one seamless trip.

More tourism means more business, more flights, and more economic growth across the region.

While the proposal is still in its early stages, one thing’s clear: Southeast Asia is dreaming big — and it might just pull it off.

Malaysia, for its part, has officially overtaken Thailand as the top tourism destination in the Asean region for 2024, recording an impressive 38 million foreign tourist arrivals.