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Travel Advisory July 24, 2023

Vietnam - level 1: exercise normal precautions.

Reissued with obsolete COVID-19 page links removed.                    Exercise normal precautions in Vietnam.

Read the  country information page  for additional information on travel to Vietnam.

 If you decide to travel to Vietnam:

• Enroll in the  Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP)  to receive Alerts and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.   
• Follow the Department of State on  Facebook  and  Twitter .   
• Review the  Country Security Report  for Vietnam.
• Visit the CDC page for the latest  Travel Health Information  related to your travel.
• Prepare a contingency plan for emergency situations. Review the  Traveler’s Checklist .    

Embassy Messages

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Quick Facts

Must have six months’ validity remaining.

One visa page required for entry stamp.

Not required.

None. However, Vietnamese Dong in excess of VND 15,000,000 or foreign currency in excess of 5,000 U.S. dollars or equivalent must be declared.

Embassies and Consulates

U.S. Embassy Hanoi - Consular Annex 170 Ngoc Khanh Ba Dinh District Hanoi, Vietnam Telephone:   From outside Vietnam: +84-24-3850-5000 From the U.S.: 011-84-24-3850-5000 From landline within Hanoi: 3850-5000 From mobile or landline within Vietnam: 024-3850-5000

Emergency:   From outside Vietnam: +84-24-3850-5000 or +84-24-3850-5105 From the U.S.: 011-84-24-3850-5000 From landline within Hanoi: 3850-5000 or 3850-5105 From mobile or landline within Vietnam: 024-3850-5000 or 024-3850-5105 Fax: (+84-24) 3850-5010 Email:   [email protected] Facebook

U.S. Consulate General Ho Chi Minh City 4 Le Duan, District 1 Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam Telephone: From outside Vietnam: +84-28-3520-4200 From the U.S.: 011-84-28-3520-4200 From landline within Ho Chi Minh City: 3520-4200 From mobile or landline within Vietnam: 028-3520-4200

Emergency: From outside Vietnam: +84-28-3520-4200 From the U.S.: 011-84-28-3520-4200 From landline within Ho Chi Minh City: 3520-4200 From mobile or landline within Vietnam: 028-3520-4200 Fax: (+84-8) 3520-4244 Email: Contact Us Here

EMERGENCY TELEPHONE NUMBERS WITHIN VIETNAM

Police: 113 Fire brigade: 114 Ambulance: 115

Destination Description

Learn about the U.S. relationship to countries around the world.

Entry, Exit and Visa Requirements

Entry Requirements:  You must have a valid passport and a visa (or pre-approval for a visa on arrival) to enter Vietnam. Your passport must be valid for six months beyond your planned stay, and you must have at least one blank visa page (not including the endorsement page). Visit  Mission Vietnam’s website  for the most current information. If you arrive in Vietnam without an appropriate visa (which could be an e-visa) or pre-approval for a visa on arrival, you will be denied entry . The U.S. Mission to Vietnam cannot assist U.S. citizens who arrive in Vietnam without required visas. U.S.-Vietnam dual nationals should consult the Department of State’s information page for Travelers with Dual Nationality and the Embassy of Vietnam for travel requirements. You must enter and exit Vietnam on the same passport. If using a Vietnamese passport to enter and exit the country, your passport must have at least six months’ validity from your return date to the United States.

Visas:   The Government of Vietnam requires a “visa sponsor” for all visa categories, except for E-visa. A visa sponsor is a local business or travel agent to apply for a pre-approval letter with a Vietnamese Immigration Office in Vietnam on behalf of the traveler. Only on receipt of the pre-approval letter can a foreigner apply for an appropriate visa at a Vietnamese Embassy or Consulate abroad, or for a visa on arrival. For more information about this process, please visit the website of the Vietnamese Embassy here . When you apply for a visa to enter Vietnam, be sure to request the visa category that corresponds to your purpose of travel. Please refer to  Vietnam’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs website  for information detailing visa categories. If you plan to work in Vietnam, you must obtain a work permit  before  applying for your visa. If you change the purpose of your visit after you have received your visa, you must obtain a new visa outside of Vietnam appropriate for your new activities before beginning those activities. Under local immigration law, employment-based visas are based on a petition from a specific employer, and workers may be unable to switch jobs without securing a new visa. In addition, employers may prevent the departure of contracted employees from Vietnam if they violate contract terms. Before accepting employment in Vietnam, make sure you understand the conditions of contracts and employment-based visas.

Note that travelers with a U.S. APEC Business Travel Card will still need a valid visa to enter Vietnam.  The United States is a transitional member of APEC and does not reciprocate with other economies regarding full pre-clearance benefits to applicants.  As such, no countries are listed on the back of U.S. APEC Business Travel Cards and card holders are required to present any travel or identity documentation, such as a passport and visa (where applicable), required by Vietnam. If a  U.S. APEC Business Travel Card  holder does not conform to Vietnam’s entry requirements, the card holder may be refused entry.

Please consult  Mission Vietnam’s website  for more information.

Please note that Vietnam requires a valid visa, residence card, or approval from the Immigration Department to leave the country. Immigration officials will apply a fee to replace lost/stolen visas or will assess a fine for any visa overstays. The Government of Vietnam has recently increased the penalties for visa overstays, and fines can be substantial. In addition, the processing of exit visas for cases involving visa overstays can take one to two weeks, and longer for more complex cases.

If your U.S. passport is lost or stolen in Vietnam, you will need both a replacement passport and a replacement Vietnamese visa to legally remain in or depart Vietnam. The U.S. Embassy in Hanoi and the Consulate General in Ho Chi Minh City can usually issue you a limited validity replacement passport in as little as one business day for emergency purposes; however, the Vietnamese government requires three to five working days to issue a replacement visa. For lost and stolen passports, immigration officials will also request a police report. You must file a report of a lost or stolen passport with the police in the location where the loss or theft of your passport occurred, or authorities may refuse to accept the report. The U.S. Embassy and the Consulate General cannot expedite the replacement of your Vietnamese visa.

If you plan to travel from Vietnam to Laos by land, you should request that an adhesive visa be affixed to your passport instead of a detachable one. Lao immigration officials require proof that travelers have departed Vietnam, something that can only be shown with an adhesive visa. Vietnamese officials remove detachable visas from passports when travelers depart Vietnam, leaving travelers with no proof of their Vietnam departure. This situation can result in Lao officials requiring travelers to return to Vietnam.  

Pre-approval for Visa on Arrival:   The Government of Vietnam has authorized some businesses and travel agencies to arrange for pre-approval for a “visa on arrival” at the airport. On a receipt of a pre-approval letter, travelers may then travel to Vietnam and apply for a visa upon landing to Vietnam. Please be advised that you should not travel to Vietnam without having been issued a pre-approval letter as it may result in a denial of entry by immigration authorities. To avoid having to rearrange your travel date, please do not make travel arrangement before you receive your pre-approval letter.

E-visa:  U.S. citizens can apply online for an E-visa on the  Vietnam Immigration website . The E-visa is valid for a maximum of 90 days, single or multiple entry, and does not allow for renewal or extension from within the country.   The E-visa is valid for a maximum of 90 days, single or multiple entry, and does not allow for renewal or extension from within the country. An E-visa is usually processed within three to five working days after the Vietnam Immigration Department receives the completed application and E-visa fee. E-visa holders must present the printed E-visa and valid passport at the port of entry. Prior to your travel with an E-visa to Vietnam, we recommend travelers to carefully check their E-visa to make sure all information is correct, and that you will enter/exit Vietnam through a port of entry that you had selected at the time of application. An error on E-visa, including minor differences between the information on the application and the biographical information on the passport, may result in a denial of entry by immigration authorities. The U.S. Embassy and Consulate General are unable to change the information on your E-visa or help expedite the process as Vietnamese E-visa is under the sole jurisdiction of the Vietnamese government. 

Certificate of Visa Exemption:  Vietnamese nationals residing abroad indefinitely, their spouses, and their children may apply for a Certificate of Visa Exemption. The certificate has a maximum validity of five years, during which time the holder can enter Vietnam and stay for up to six months without applying for a visa. More information can be found on the  Vietnam Embassy website .

The U.S. Department of State is unaware of any HIV/AIDS entry restrictions for visitors to or foreign residents of Vietnam. 

Immunization information for travelers can be found on the  Centers for Disease and Control’s website .

Information about  dual nationality  or the  prevention of international child abduction  can be found on our website. For further information about customs regulations, please read our  Customs Information page . 

Safety and Security

The Department of State recommends that U.S. citizens overseas always maintain a high level of vigilance and take appropriate steps to increase their security awareness while traveling internationally. Please visit  www.travel.state.gov  for up-to-date information. 

Messages regarding weather-related events are posted  here  and on the Embassy/Consulate General  website . 

While in Vietnam you are subject to Vietnamese laws. U.S. citizenship will not help you avoid arrest or prosecution. If you violate local laws, even unknowingly, you may be arrested, expelled, or imprisoned. Individuals establishing a business or practicing a profession that requires additional permits or licensing should seek information from the competent local authorities, prior to practicing or operating a business.

Vietnamese authorities routinely do not provide timely notification of the arrest of a U.S. citizen to the U.S. Embassy or Consulate General or approval for consular officials to visit U.S. citizens. The delays for both – particularly for access – can take several weeks. Note that if you enter Vietnam with a non-U.S. passport, the Government of Vietnam has different notification and access responsibilities for the U.S. Embassy or Consulate General. See our  webpage  for further information. 

Small-scale, peaceful protests occasionally occur in Vietnam’s major cities, but large-scale demonstrations are rare. As in any country, you should avoid large protests, as they can become violent with little or no warning. 

The Government of Vietnam may not allow or authorize travel to certain areas of the country that are deemed sensitive. Check with local authorities before visiting border areas to see if you need to obtain a travel permit issued by local authorities. U.S. citizens have been detained after traveling in areas close to the Vietnamese borders with the People’s Republic of China, Cambodia, and Laos. These areas are not always marked, and there are no warnings about prohibited travel.

Safety standards in Vietnam are not at the same level as those in the United States and vary greatly from company to company and province to province. This is especially true for fire safety codes. Travelers should be aware that many buildings, including hotels, shops, and restaurants, have limited or no fire safety equipment or emergency exits. Ground and water transportation also lack safety regulations. 

Travelers to Vietnam should have no expectation of privacy and should safeguard all personal documents and electronic devices. Exercise caution when discussing sensitive or proprietary information.

Crime:  Crime in Vietnam is rated high. Exercise vigilance and the same commonsense security precautions you would in any major metropolitan city in the United States.  

Violent crime against foreigners is rare; however, petty crimes, such as theft, bag grabs, and pickpocketing occur regularly, especially in crowded areas and tourist locations. Typically, there is a rise in petty crime during the Christmas and Tet (Lunar New Year) holiday seasons, including during the day and in well-lit areas. Motorcyclists are known to snatch bags, cameras, cell phones, and other valuables from individuals riding or walking on the street.   If you are targeted by thieves, do not resist, and report the incident immediately to local police and to the U.S. Embassy in Hanoi or the U.S. Consulate General in Ho Chi Minh City. Keep a tight hold on bags as you enter and exit vehicles and as you walk around. Hold tightly to cell phones when using them outside and lock and stow phones until you actually need to use them.

Some U.S. citizens have reported threats of death or physical injury connected to business-related disputes. You should report such threats to local authorities and if you feel unsafe, you should depart the country. 

Keep your passport and other important valuables in your hotel in a safe or another secured location at all times and carry both photo and digital copies of your passport. You should immediately report the loss or theft of your U.S. passport to the local police and the U.S. Embassy or the U.S. Consulate General. See section on “Visas” for information on what to do if your passport/visa are lost or stolen.

Sexual Assault:  Women travelling alone may be subject to some forms of harassment and verbal abuse. Sexual assault, harassment and rape do occur. To minimize the risk avoid travelling alone, especially at night; remain particularly vigilant in less populous areas; and be careful when dealing with strangers or recent acquaintances. Local authorities may not always respond adequately to reports of sexual violence and harassment. If you are the victim of a sexual assault, you should report it immediately to local authorities and to the U.S. Embassy or Consulate General. Never leave food or drinks unattended or in the care of strangers. Be wary of accepting snacks, beverages, gum, or cigarettes from new acquaintances. These items may contain drugs that could put you at risk of sexual assault and robbery.

Male violence against women and sexual harassment is often ignored by the police. In areas foreigners frequent, women have reported harassment and assault such as men exposing themselves, asking for sexual favors, and groping.

Drugs:  Recreational drugs available in Vietnam can be extremely dangerous and can result in death. Drugs sold in Vietnam may be fake, synthetic, or laced with toxic ingredients undetectable to the buyer. This includes nitrous oxide balloons widely available in nightlife establishments. You should also avoid purchasing liquor or cigarettes from street vendors or strangers, as the authenticity of the contents cannot be assured. 

Victims of Crime:   U.S. citizen victims of sexual assault are encouraged to contact the U.S. Embassy or Consulate General for assistance. Vietnam’s local equivalent of an emergency line is 113. Local police will issue a report of a crime, but generally will only initiate investigations for crimes they determine serious, which do not always equate with U.S. standards. Investigations can take several months or even years to complete.

In the event you are a victim of a crime, local police will issue a crime report in Vietnamese, but generally will only initiate investigations for crimes they determine serious. While the overall situation is improving, some police have asked for bribes, ostensibly to support local police efforts or to facilitate investigation of a crime. If you are involved in a situation where a police officer is soliciting money, contact American Citizen Services at the U.S. Embassy or Consulate General.

See our webpage on  help for U.S. victims of crime overseas .

We can: 

• Help you find appropriate medical care. 
• Assist you in reporting a crime to the police. 
• Contact relatives or friends with your written consent. 
• Provide general information regarding the victim’s role during the local investigation and following its conclusion. 
• Provide a list of local attorneys.
• Provide information on victim’s compensation programs in the United States. 
• Provide an emergency loan for repatriation to the United States and/or limited support in cases of destitution.
• Help you find accommodation and arrange flights home.
• Replace a stolen or lost passport.

Domestic Violence:  U.S. citizen victims of domestic violence are encouraged to contact the Embassy or Consulate General for assistance .  Note that local authorities take a different attitude towards domestic violence cases and are hesitant to get involved in cases involving foreigners. Vietnam has very limited infrastructure to support victims of domestic violence.

Tourism:   The tourism industry is unevenly regulated, and safety inspections for equipment and facilities do not commonly occur. Hazardous areas/activities are not always identified with appropriate signage, and staff may not be trained or certified either by the host government or by recognized authorities in the field. In the event of an injury, appropriate medical treatment is typically available only in/near major cities. First responders are generally unable to access areas outside of major cities to provide urgent medical treatment. U.S. citizens are encouraged to purchase medical evacuation insurance. See our webpage for more  information on insurance providers for overseas coverage .

Local Laws & Special Circumstances

Criminal Penalties:   You are subject to Vietnamese laws. If you violate local laws, even unknowingly, you may be expelled, arrested, or imprisoned.  Individuals establishing a business or practicing a profession that requires additional permits or licensing should seek information from the competent local authorities, prior to practicing or operating a business. Penalties for possessing, using, or trafficking in illegal drugs in Vietnam are severe, and convicted offenders can expect long jail sentences and heavy fines, or even the death penalty. Police periodically raid nightlife establishments suspected of engaging in the drug trade and during these raids will subject all patrons present to drug testing at the police station. A positive result, regardless of whether drugs were consumed in Vietnam or before entry, may result in criminal charges.

In Vietnam, you may be taken in for questioning if you do not have proper ID, such as a passport or a copy of your visa. Driving under the influence of alcohol resulting in a fatal accident could lead to immediate imprisonment. If you break local laws in Vietnam, your U.S. passport  will not  help you avoid arrest or prosecution. Note that the Vietnamese legal system allows for lengthy criminal investigation periods that can lead to prolonged pre-trial detention; some investigations can last years without any explanation.

Furthermore, some laws are also prosecutable in the United States, regardless of local law. You can be  prosecuted in the United States  for engaging in sexual conduct with children or for using or disseminating child pornography in a foreign country regardless of the legality of these activities under the host country’s laws.

Arrest Notification in Vietnam:    If you are arrested or detained, ask police or prison officials to notify the U.S. Embassy or Consulate General immediately. There are often delays in notification by the Vietnamese authorities to the U.S. Embassy or Consulate General and officials have been known to delay consular access to prisoners for several weeks. 

Counterfeit and Pirated Goods: Although counterfeit and pirated goods are prevalent in many countries, they may still be illegal according to local laws. You may also pay fines or forfeit them upon return to the United States. See the  U.S. Department of Justice website  for more information.  

Gambling:  Gambling is highly regulated by the government and persons or businesses running games or gambling halls are required to be licensed. The Government of Vietnam pursues cases of running or playing in unlicensed games aggressively. There are currently U.S. citizens serving jail sentences of three to five years because of illegal gambling.

Dual Nationality:  Dual nationality is accepted by the Vietnamese government in some, but not all, circumstances. However, dual nationals should be aware that Vietnam recognizes their Vietnamese citizenship as primary before others. In such cases, the U.S. Embassy and Consulate General may be limited in the consular services we are able to provide. U.S. citizens who also hold Vietnamese citizenship and are currently residing in Vietnam may wish to contact local authorities and/or seek competent legal advice on how local laws may affect their status. For detailed information on Vietnamese nationality law and other legal issues visit the  Embassy of Vietnam website . 

Work Authorization:  The Government of Vietnam maintains strict laws with respect to foreign workers. U.S. citizens planning to work in Vietnam should make sure that they are in full compliance with Vietnamese regulations. Penalties can be severe and include deportation, fines, or detention. Vietnam immigration law allows for companies sponsoring foreign employees to exercise control over their employees’ visas, including prohibiting their exit from the country if they have any outstanding debts.

Teaching English:  We advise those considering accepting an English teaching job in Vietnam to carefully review the terms of the contract regarding working and living conditions and to ask for multiple references from persons familiar with the institution, especially former U.S. citizen employees, before committing to contracts. Some U.S. citizens have reported their employers have reneged on contract terms, including offering significantly lower salaries than agreed or seizing their passports, and employers have caused complications with the exit visa process for employees who quit, complicating the exit visas required to depart the country. 

Hotels:  Hotels in Vietnam require you to present your passport (and visas, if issued separately) upon check-in so that your stay can be registered with local police. Every guest in a hotel room or private residence must be registered, regardless of nationality. If you stay at a private residence (i.e., at the residence of family or friends), you must comply with registration requirements by visiting the local police station and registering your stay within 24 hours. Some provinces allow registration online.

Exports:  Vietnamese law prohibits the export of antiques. However, these laws are vague and unevenly enforced. Customs authorities may inspect and seize your antiques without compensating you, and the determination of what is an “antique” can be arbitrary. If you purchase non-antique items of value, you should retain receipts and confirmation from shop owners and/or the Ministry of Culture and the Customs Department to prevent seizure when you leave the country.  

Imports:  Vietnamese authorities have seized documents, audio and video tapes, compact discs, literature, and personal letters they deem to be pornographic or political in nature or intended for religious or political proselytizing. It is illegal to import weapons, ammunition, explosives, military equipment and tools (including uniforms), narcotics, drugs, toxic chemicals, pornographic and subversive materials, firecrackers, or children's toys that have "negative effects on personality development, social order, and security."    For up-to-date information on Vietnam Customs information, please visit the  Vietnam Customs website .

Freedom of Expression:   The Government of Vietnam maintains strict control over all forms of political speech, particularly dissent or speech it deems as critical of the government and/or party. U.S. citizens have been detained, tried, and convicted for political activities (including criticizing the government or its domestic/foreign policies or advocating alternatives to Communist Party rule), possession of political material, and non-sanctioned religious activities (including proselytizing). Authorities have also detained U.S. citizens for posting messages on blogs or online chatrooms that are perceived to be political or critical of the government. U.S. citizens of Vietnamese descent should be especially careful with their online postings. Review the latest version of the  Vietnam Human Rights Report  for the latest information on Freedom of Expression in Vietnam.

Association with Groups:   Persons whom the Government of Vietnam perceives to be associated with dissident or political groups may be denied entry to Vietnam, prevented from departing, detained, interrogated, placed under surveillance, or even tried and convicted. Note that if arrested, you could be subject to lengthy detention without access to an attorney or family members. U.S. citizens of Vietnamese descent should be especially careful about associating with dissident groups. U.S. citizen travelers have been summoned by immigration or local security officials for reasons that are unclear or not explicitly related to any suspected or alleged violation of law. We recommend that U.S. citizens finding themselves in this situation contact the U.S. Embassy or Consulate General immediately for further information and/or assistance.

Photography: Taking photographs of anything that could be perceived as being of military Taking photographs of anything that could be perceived as being of military or security interest may result in questioning by authorities, fines, or delayed travel. You should be cautious when traveling near military bases and avoid photography in these areas.     Disputes: The Vietnamese government has occasionally seized the passports and blocked the departure of foreigners involved in commercial disputes. U.S. citizens whose passports have been seized by Vietnamese authorities should contact the Embassy or Consulate General for assistance . 

Civil Procedures:  Civil procedures in Vietnam, such as marriage, divorce, documenting the birth of a child, and issuance of death certificates, are highly bureaucratic and can be slow. Local authorities may refuse a request to include a non-Vietnamese name on a birth certificate. In addition, for those wishing to get married in Vietnam, you will need a notarized affidavit of single status. Please contact the  Vietnamese Embassy in Washington, D.C. , or the  Vietnamese Consulate General in San Francisco  or  Houston  concerning documentary requirements for these services. Enforcement of civil orders is frequently difficult or non-existent. 

Women Travelers:   See our travel tips for  Women Travelers . 

LGBTQI+ Rights:  There are no legal restrictions on same-sex sexual relations or in attending LGBTIQ+ events in Vietnam. See   our  LGBTQI+ Travel Information  page and section 6 of our  Human Rights report   for further details.

Accessibility: Most public places and public transportation are  not  accessible to persons with disabilities. Sidewalks, curb ramps, restrooms, road crossings, and tourist areas are not equipped to assist such individuals. New, modern buildings and facilities in larger urban cities are regularly built with ramps and accessible entryways. 

Students: See our  Students Abroad  page and  FBI travel tips .

Medical facilities in Vietnam, including emergency response services, frequently do not meet international standards and may lack medicine and supplies. We strongly recommend travelers purchase medical evacuation insurance before visiting Vietnam.

• Medical personnel generally speak little or no English. Doctors and hospitals expect immediate cash payment for health services. You may obtain lists of local English-speaking physicians from the U.S. Embassy in Hanoi or the U.S. Consulate General in Ho Chi Minh City from our  website . 
• International health clinics in Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City can treat minor illnesses and injuries, but more serious problems often require medical evacuation to other cities in the region. 
• Although you can purchase many prescription and non-prescription medications at pharmacies, some common U.S. medications may not be available. You should bring adequate supplies of medications for the duration of your stay in Vietnam and ensure with the Ministry of Health that the medicine you need is allowed to enter Vietnam. You should carry a copy of your prescription if carrying medicine in a travel case or container.
• We strongly recommend travelers purchase medical evacuation insurance before visiting Vietnam. 
• Travelers to Vietnam are at risk of the following diseases: Tuberculosis, Dengue Fever, Zika, Avian Influenza (H5N1), and HIV. You can find detailed information on vaccinations and other health precautions on the  CDC website .  

We do not pay medical bills. The U.S. government cannot pay medical bills and does not provide medical assistance. Also, be aware that U.S. Medicare/Medicaid does not apply overseas.

Medical Insurance:  Make sure your health insurance plan provides coverage overseas. Most care providers overseas only accept upfront payments. See our webpage for more  information on insurance providers for overseas coverage . Visit the  U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention  for more information on type of insurance you should consider before you travel overseas. If covered by TriCare, check the TriCare website ( https://www.tricare.mil/ ) for additional information about overseas coverage. 

We strongly recommend supplemental insurance to cover medical evacuation as it can cost many thousands of dollars. Always carry your prescription medication in original packaging, along with your doctor’s prescription. 

It is extremely important  that travelers have sufficient funds and/or insurance to cover any potential medical costs.  Frequently hospitals will hold onto a patient’s passport as collateral for payment, and patients may have difficulty getting their passport back without paying their medical bills in full.  Patients who do not pay their medical bills in full also run the risk of being barred from departing the country.  

Vaccinations: Be up-to-date on all  vaccinations  recommended by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. 

Air quality: Air pollution is a significant problem in Vietnam’s major cities, and you should consult your doctor prior to travel and consider the impact that seasonal smog and heavy particulate pollution may have on you. To obtain information on the air quality in Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh City, please follow the link to the Environmental Protection Agency’s  AirNow website . Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City’s Air Quality Index (AQI) can be observed either by clicking on the Vietnam location on the map, or by selecting Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh City in the “Select a City” option on the upper right part of the page. The page provides AQI over the last 24-hour period as well as pollutant concentration and a downloadable historical document. 

Travel and Transportation

Road Conditions and Safety: Traffic in Vietnam is dangerous, chaotic, and undisciplined. Road conditions are poor; traffic accidents are the leading cause of death, severe injury, and emergency evacuation of foreigners in Vietnam. Long-distance buses and trains do not meet U.S. safety standards. Buses and trucks are often overloaded and travel at high speeds with little regard to other modes of road transportation.  

Traffic Laws:  Driving in Vietnam is not comparable to driving in other countries. Vietnamese drivers routinely ignore traffic laws, causing traffic fatalities on a daily basis. We strongly discourage you from operating a motorcycle or scooter in Vietnam. Vietnamese drivers and pedestrians may not behave in a manner to which Americans are accustomed. If you do choose to operate a motorcycle or scooter in Vietnam, wear a helmet and  always  yield to larger vehicles. Motor bike fatalities are a leading cause of death or serious injury among foreign nationals visiting or living in Vietnam, with several fatalities having occurred on major roads and rural routes within the past year. If you are the victim of a serious motor bike accident in Vietnam, the prognosis for full recovery and survival is low due to Vietnam’s poor medical infrastructure. A motorbike license is required to operate a motorcycle or scooter in Vietnam. Motor scooter drivers without a license can be held criminally liable for injuries to or death of a victim in an accident, and you may be held in custody for an extended period of time without the ability to speak to family or a lawyer during the investigation. 

Pedestrians should always look carefully  in both directions  before crossing streets, even when using a marked crosswalk with a green “walk” light illuminated or when crossing what is believed to be a one-way street. When walking on sidewalks, be mindful of scooters that may be behind you. Vietnamese commonly drive their scooters against traffic and on sidewalks. 

Because the United States is not a party to the Convention on Road Traffic, international driving permits and U.S. drivers’ licenses are  not valid  in Vietnam. Foreigners renting vehicles risk fines, prosecution, and/or imprisonment for driving without a Vietnamese license endorsed for the appropriate vehicle. If you wish to drive in Vietnam, contact the Provincial Public Transportation Service of the Vietnamese Department of Communications and Transport to obtain a Vietnamese driver’s license. Note that you may be required to take a medical examination as part of the driver license application process. 

For more information, please refer to Vietnam’s national tourism office website.

Public Transportation:

Bus System:  While Vietnam does have an extensive bus system, buses can be overcrowded and are often driven with little or no regard for passenger safety. 

For-hire vehicles:   Major taxi companies tend to be reliable. Occasionally boutique taxi companies have rigged meters, particularly on routes to and from the international airports. Exercise caution in choosing ground transportation upon arrival at the airport in Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh City. Some travelers have reported being robbed by drivers who greeted them upon arrival with a placard showing the traveler's name. If you are expecting to be picked up, ask the company for the driver’s name, phone number, and license plate number before you travel. Areas outside of large cities typically have only rudimentary public transportation and often do not have metered taxis. Travelers are advised to use caution in these situations. 

We strongly discourage the use of motorcycle taxis (known as “xe om”). Motorcycle taxis are unregulated and unsafe, and the helmets provided to riders offer little to no protection against injury in the case of an accident. 

Smartphone-based for-hire vehicle services:  GrabTaxi and local taxi companies are readily available, accessible via Smartphone apps, and routinely utilized by foreigners and locals. 

Aviation Safety Oversight: The U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has assessed the government of Vietnam’s Civil Aviation Authority as being in compliance with International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) aviation safety standards for oversight of Vietnam’s air carrier operations. Further information may be found on the  FAA’s safety assessment page .

Maritime Travel: Mariners planning travel to Vietnam should also check for  U.S. maritime advisories and alerts . Information may also be posted to the  U.S. Coast Guard homeport website , and the  National Geospatial-Intelligence Agency (NGA) broadcast warnings website  portal.

For additional travel information

• Enroll in the  Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP)  to receive security messages and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
• Call us in Washington, D.C. at 1-888-407-4747 (toll-free in the United States and Canada) or 1-202-501-4444 (from all other countries) from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m., Eastern Standard Time, Monday through Friday (except U.S. federal holidays).
• See the  State Department’s travel website  for the  Worldwide Caution  and  Travel Advisories .
• Follow us on  Twitter  and  Facebook .
• See  traveling safely abroad  for useful travel tips.

Review information about International Parental Child Abduction in Vietnam . For additional IPCA-related information, please see the International Child Abduction Prevention and Return Act ( ICAPRA ) report.

Travel Advisory Levels

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Your Vietnam

Detailed entry requirements for international visitors to vietnam.

The Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism has issued Document No. 829/PA-BVHTTDL on its plan to reopen the tourism sector in the new normal.

Regulations on the reception of international visitors to Vietnam under the document are now much easier than previous proposals submitted by relevant agencies. * To enter Vietnam, international visitors need to meet the following conditions: - To be a citizen from the 13 following states who will be entitled to 15-day visa exemption regardless of passport types and entry purposes, provided they meet all the conditions stipulated by Vietnamese law: Germany, France, Italy, Spain, the UK, Russia, Japan, the Republic of Korea, Denmark, Sweden, Norway, Finland, and Belarus. This rule is valid from March 15, 2022 through March 14, 2025. - To be foreign nationals, overseas Vietnamese, or relatives who hold sufficient legal papers as regulated (including valid permanent residence cards, temporary residence cards, visas, visa waivers). They do not need to re-apply for personal verification or visa issuance/visa waivers, or apply for entry permission by ministries, sectors, or localities. * Testing and vaccination requirements: - International visitors to Vietnam (except for children under 2) need to test negative for SARS-CoV-2 prior to their departure by air within 72 hours if using the RT/PCR/RT-LAMP test method, or within 24 hours if using the rapid antigen test method as verified by competent authorities of the countries conducting the tests. - Those who enter Vietnam by road, railway, or sea can take a test before their departure like air passengers if their travel duration is short. Meanwhile, they need to take a test at ports of entry if their travel duration is long. - A test is required if an international visitor shows COVID-19 symptoms. If the test result is positive, he/she must comply with the Ministry of Health’s guidance. - The rule that international arrivals by air have to undergo another test when entering Vietnam, as well as quarantine requirements, is no longer in place. International visitors can engage in tourism activities as soon as they meet these conditions.

* Entry procedures: - All international arrivals have to make health declarations at tokhaiyte.vn prior to leaving. - Installing the PC-COVID application. * Quarantine requirements: Within 10 days since their entry, international visitors have to self-monitor their health. In case of showing suspected symptoms (fever; cough; sore throat; runny nose, nasal congestion; aches or pains, tiredness, cold; loss of taste or smell; headache; diarrhea; shortage of breath; respiratory infection), they have to immediately report to their nearest healthcare establishment to receive timely guidance and management while practicing disease prevention measures (frequently wearing face masks, cleaning hands with sanitiser). * Other information: - International visitors must have health insurance or travel insurance with coverage of at least US$10,000 for COVID-19 treatment. - International visitors must pay testing, health quarantine, check-up, and treatment expenses, and others (if any) by themselves. - If wishing to apply for or having problems with seeking the Vietnam entry permit, foreign nationals and Vietnamese holding foreign passports can liaise via the following contacts: + Email: [email protected] + Email: [email protected] for guiding and handling foreigners’ entry, exist, and residence procedures. + Telephone numbers: (+84) 24 38 26 01 14/ 24 38 26 40 26 (Hanoi)/ (+84) 28 39 20 03 65 (Ho Chi Minh City). + For more information about entry permit application procedures, visit the website: https://xuatnhapcanh.gov.vn ./.

Foreigners, overseas Vietnamese to benefit from favourable entry procedures

Permanent Deputy Prime Minister Pham Binh Minh has given in-principle approval that favourable entry procedures will be created for foreigners, and overseas Vietnamese and their relatives.

Báo điện tử VOV

• Customized Tour

Info for travelers on Covid-19 in Vietnam: Entry requirements & Restrictions

Vietnam officially reopened its inbound tourism on 15th March 2022 after nearly two years of closure. Two months later (on 15th May 2022), Vietnam also removed the pre-entry Covid-19 testing requirements for all arrivals as per a recent government’s Official Dispatch No. 416/CD-TTg. The latest decision is expected to boost the traveling of international visitors to Vietnam in the context that the country’s Covid-19 infections have dropped to a 10-month low.

Vietnam Travel highest priority is our duty of care to your health, safety and well-being. The uncertainty surrounding Covid-19 makes it a confusing time to travel. As the situation evolves, we are closely monitoring official guidance from the World Health Organization (WHO) and Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), and working with Vietnam authorities on a country-by-country basis to ensure what we are doing is correct, comprehensive and effective.

We will support you to do whatever you feel is best for you and your loved ones. Below are a few useful fact you need to know before you go to Vietnam during and post-Covid 19:

Table of Contents

1. Vietnam Visa Exemptions

2. vietnam electronic visa (evisa), 3. vietnam visa on arrival, ii. passports, iii. borders, 1. heath check on arrival, 2. insurance requirement, 3. current snapshot of covid-19 situation in vietnam, v. what you can bring with, vi. traveling by air, 1. northern vietnam (hanoi, sapa, ha giang, halong & the red river delta…), 2. central vietnam (hue, danang, hoian, nha trang, phan thiet…), 3. southern vietnam (ho chi minh city, the mekong delta & phu quoc…), 1. location, 2. time zone, 3. country calling code‎, 4. capital city, 5. population, 7. language, 8. history & culture, 9. religion, 11. currency, 12. electricity, 13. vaccinations, 14. main airports, 15. major airlines, 16. internet access, 17. sim cards, 18. credit cards, 19. tipping, 20. emergency calls, 1. cambodia, 2. thailand, x. final lines.

– You may also need a visa to come into or travel through Vietnam, depending on your nationality. – Vietnamese visit visas are issued to foreign nationals for a limited duration and on the basis that visitors must leave on or before the date of expiry. Those who come to Vietnam to work are required to apply for a work visa / permit. You should check the visa validity and conditions carefully. Overstaying your Vietnamese visit visa is a serious matter and you may be delayed from travel until a fine is paid, and may be prevented from visiting Vietnam in the future. – In a very small number of exceptional cases, the Vietnamese authorities may be prepared to consider extending visit visas. This often requires agents who are prepared to act as sponsors, including taking some legal and financial responsibility, for the people applying for visa extensions.

Below is all the information you need on visas for Vietnam.

Vietnam offers visa exemptions ranging from 14 to 90 days to citizens of 24 countries holding valid ordinary passports. The full list of countries with visa exemptions is below.

Vietnam’s e-Visa is now available to nationals of 80 countries ALL countries: Andorra, Argentina, Armenia, Australia, Austria, Azerbaijan, Belarus, Belgium, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Brazil, Brunei, Bulgaria, Canada, Colombia, Croatia, Cuba, Cyprus, Czech Republic, Chile, China (including Hong Kong and Macau passports), Denmark, Estonia, Fiji, Finland, France, Georgia, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, India, Ireland, Italy, Japan, Kazakhstan, Latvia, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Macedonia, Malta, Marshall Islands, Mexico, Micronesia, Moldova, Monaco, Montenegro, Mongolia, Myanmar, Nauru, Netherlands, New Zealand, Norway, Palau, Panama, Papua New Guinea, Peru, Poland, Portugal, Philippines, Qatar, Romania, Russia, Salomon Islands, San Marino, Serbia, Slovakia, Slovenia, South Korea, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, Timor Leste, United Arab Emirates, United Kingdom, United States of America, Uruguay, Vanuatu, Venezuela, and Western Samoa.

The e-Visa takes three working days to process, costs 25 USD, and is a single-entry visa, valid for 30 days. You can enter Vietnam on an e-Visa at any of the country’s eight international airports, including Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, Danang and Phu Quoc, as well as 14 land crossings and 7 seaports.

How to Apply for Vietnam’s e-Visa: Step 1 : Prepare the required materials: + One 4×6 passport photo in .jpg format with a white background, without glasses. + One photo in .jpg format of your passport data page, + Passport valid for at least six months. + Your temporary address in Vietnam and points of entry and exit. + Debit or credit card for payment. Step 2 : Click this link or access www.immigration.gov.vn and go to ‘E-visa Issuance’ then click on the link for ‘Outside Vietnam foreigners’. Step 3 : Upload your .jpg images (passport data page and passport photo) and fill out the required fields on the form completely. Submit your form. Step 4 : Pay the e-Visa fee of 25 USD. Copy down the document code provided. Step 5 : Within three working days you should receive news of your e-Visa application via email. If not, you can also run a search for your e-Visa at this link. Step 6 : Use your document code to locate your e-Visa online. Download and print the e-Visa in two copies for extra safety. Travelers with an eVisa can go directly to immigration counters at their point of entry and do not need to queue at Visa On Arrival counters.

If you are planning a multiple-entry visit or a stay of more than 30 days, you will should apply for a visa on arrival. Requirements: + A 4×6 passport photo with a white background and no glasses. + A filled-out visa application form. + A passport or substitute ID valid for six months from the date you plan to enter Vietnam. + Payment (25 USD to 50 USD) for visa fees. + A Letter of Approval from a Vietnamese embassy or consulate (if you are picking up your visa at the airport). + If you are near a Vietnamese embassy or consulate, you can submit your photo, application form, passport, and visa fee in person.

If you are unable to reach a Vietnamese embassy, or are short on time, Vietnam Travel can help you obtain the Vietnam Visa Approval Letter . Bring this letter and together with a visa application form and your other documents to the Visa On Arrival counter at the airport when you land. You will need to pay your visa stamp fee in USD or Vietnamese Dong on arrival at the airport.

1. Your passport should be valid for a minimum of 6 months on the date you enter Vietnam. 2. A number of foreigners have been refused entry and exit due to their passport being damaged. Make sure your passport is in good condition before arriving in Vietnam. 3. Your passport will be checked when you arrive at a Vietnam port or airport to make sure you’re allowed to come into the country. It should be valid for the whole of your stay. 4. Being refused entry can result in significant cost and a long stay at the airport.

When checking into a hotel, you’ll have to hand over your passport so that the hotel can register your presence with the local police. Make sure your passport is returned and keep it in a safe place. You may be fined if you don’t register.

On 15 March 2022, Vietnam officially reopened its inbound tourism after nearly two years of closure.

IV. HEALTH AND SAFETY PRECAUTIONS FOR TRAVELERS

Travelers in Vietnam are encouraged to take sensible precautions against Covid-19 during their trips.

The World Health Organization outlines these basic practices to keep yourself and your loved ones safe: 1. Avoid traveling if you have a fever and cough. If you have fever, cough, and difficulty breathing, alert health care services and share with them your recent travel history. 2. Maintain social distancing. Stay a metre or more away from others, especially those who are sneezing or coughing, or have fever. 3. Wash your hands regularly with soap and running water. You can also use an alcohol-based hand-sanitizer to spray your hands as often as you like. 4. Cover your mouth and nose with tissue when you cough or sneeze. Dispose of dirty tissues immediately and wash your hands after coughing or sneezing. 5. Avoid contact with live animals. Wash your hands with soap and water if you touch live animals or animal products in markets. 6. Eat only well-cooked food. Make sure your meals especially animal proteins and dairy products are thoroughly cooked and prepared in a sanitary environment. 7. Discard single-use masks. If you choose to wear a single-use mask, ensure it covers your nose and mouth, avoid touching the mask, and wash your hands after removing it.

Vietnam dropped Covid-19 testing requirements for all international arrivals from 15 May 2022 as per Official Dispatch No. 416/CD-TTg after a significant decrease in the number of cases.

Purchase medical/travel insurance that covers COVID-19 treatment with a minimum of 10,000 USD cover. This typically costs about 40 USD.

Any travelers experiencing symptoms of the virus – fever, cough and difficulty breathing – should immediately call Vietnam’s health hotline: 19003228, or contact Vietnam Travel’s consultants for instant support.

What you can bring with you depends on where you’re traveling from. You must declare to customs: + anything over your duty-free allowance. + banned or restricted goods in Vietnam. + goods that you plan to sell. + more than 5,000 USD (or its equivalent) in cash. You and your baggage may be checked for anything you must declare.

Passengers must wear face masks when flying in Vietnam, including with Vietnam Airlines, Vietjet Air, Bamboo Airways. Flight attendants will also be required to wear masks. Passengers on flights within Vietnam are also required to undergo verbal health assessments and temperature checks.

VII. WEATHER AND CLIMATE IN VIETNAM

Vietnam’s unique geography creates a range of weather patterns, with both tropical and temperate zones. Generally, there are two monsoon seasons, between October and March in the northeast and between April and October everywhere but the mountains. While March to May offers the best weather countrywide, there is no bad time to visit Vietnam, as there is always some part of the country with holiday skies. Below is a guide to climate of Vietnam ’s major regions and destinations, so you know what to expect during your trip.

December – March : cool to cold, misty, cloudy. April – June : warm to hot, clear skies, sunny. June – August : hot, humid, rainy. September – November : cool, clear skies, sunny. The best time to visit Hanoi and the Red River Delta (including Halong Bay, Cat Ba Island, Ninh Binh) is usually from April to June or from September to December. From April the days are normally hot, occasionally above 30 degrees with clear skies. September to November sees cooler temperatures of around 25 degrees and sunny skies – perfect for exploring the region.

If you’re coming to Hanoi in June, expect soaring temperatures with humidity highs of 40 degrees Celsius, and the rainy season is full swing (June to August). December is cool, misty and atmospheric, however from late December until March temperatures are surprisingly cold with lows of 10 degrees. You’ll want to bundle up.

September – January : rainy, cool, cloudy. February – August : warm to hot, sunny, clear skies. Tropical storms often hit Central Vietnam starting in September. March is an excellent time to see the region when the fields, gardens and streets are awash in bright blossoms and soothing greens. From May to August, it can be hot, and you’ll want to head to the beach to cool off. In the late months of the year, from September to November, the Central Vietnam sees a lot of rain and even a few small floods. The temperatures begin to dip and reach their coldest point in January, warming up just before the Vietnamese New Year.

May to November : sporadic rainfall, hot, humid. December to April : clear skies, hot, sunny. Southern Vietnam and Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon) have consistent temperatures year-round. HCMC is either hot and dry or hot and rainy, although there are some pleasant fresh days early in the year, and some scorching days mid-year. Temperatures are normally around 30 degrees, with sunshine. From May to November, the wet season brings a dependable afternoon downpour, usually lasting a few hours.

VIII. THE BASICS

Vietnam is a country in Southeast Asia and borders China, Laos, Cambodia, Gulf of Tonkin, the Pacific Sea and the Gulf of Thailand. It comprises over 330,000 square kilometers, with more than 3,200km of coastline. From Dubai, a non-stop flight is 7h15m, and from Australia, it is roughly 8 hours direct.

Indochina Time Zone UTC + 07:00.

International dialing code for Vietnam: +84.

Hanoi is the capital of the Socialist Republic of Vietnam. It is the second biggest city of the country, just after Ho Chi Minh City (formerly known as Saigon).

Vietnam’s population has been recorded at over 96.2 million on 1 st April 2019, making it the 15th most populous country in the world and the third in Southeast Asia.

Vietnamese people are composed of 54 different ethnic groups coexisting peacefully, in which the Kinh (Viet) people account for 86% of the population and 53 other ethnic groups represent over 10%.

The official language of Vietnam is Vietnamese. English is spoken across the country and you should have no issue with basic communication or greetings.

Vietnam’s long and complex history includes Chinese, French, Japanese, and American influences adding to the intrigue of the country. Millennia of invasions and conflicts have shaped Vietnamese culture into what you see today. Vietnamese culture is complex, diverse and represents something of a history lesson. Vietnam’s culture focuses on humanity, harmony, family, and community values through music, art, dance, and literature. There are hints of French and American influence, but national symbols like dragons, turtles, bamboo, and lotuses are strictly Vietnamese and can be seen on many buildings and Buddhist temples throughout the country.

Vietnamese society is both conservative and fairly tolerant, so it’s best to follow these simple rules to avoid causing offence: shorts and sleeveless tops fine for the beach, not so at religious sites, and nudity on the beach is a no-no.

Vietnam’s major religions are Buddhism (14.91%) and Catholicism (7.35%), although the largest percentage of the population follows Vietnamese folk traditions or identifies as non-religious. Around 7% of the population is Christian, and there are also tiny numbers of Hindu and Muslim believers.

Vietnam travel is safer than you’d expect – the government has done a good job on keeping a lid on civil unrest in Vietnam, and violence to tourists has remained thankfully rare. Which isn’t to say that crimes of opportunity don’t happen: in Hanoi, Nha Trang and Ho Chi Minh City, tourists may be targeted by pickpockets and motorcycle-riding purse snatchers.

Vietnam uses the Vietnamese Dong (VND). It is safe to withdraw money from banks or ATMs while you’re in Vietnam – just check how much you’re really withdrawing. Exchange rates: 1 USD ~ 0 VND 1 EUR ~ 0 VND 1 AUD ~ 0 VND 1 SAR ~ 0 VND 1 INR ~ 0 VND

The electrical current in Vietnam is 220V/50Hz using plug types A, C and F. The standard voltage in the US is 110 volts, so you may need a surge adapter.

Typhoid, Hepatitis A and B and antimalarial tablets are advised, but not compulsory. You will, however, need a Yellow Fever certificate if traveling from a high-risk area. Consult your doctor 4 to 8 weeks before you depart.

Noi Bai International Airport (Hanoi – in the North), Tan Son Nhat International Airport (Ho Chi Minh City – in the South) and Danang International Airport (Danang City – in the Centre) are the international and domestic hubs for travelers. Other international airports of the country are Cat Bi (Hai Phong), Van Don (Quang Ninh), Vinh (Nghe An), Phu Bai (Hue), Cam Ranh (Nha Trang – Khanh Hoa), Can Tho (Can Tho City), and Phu Quoc (Phu Quoc Island).

With four airlines operating internal flights in Vietnam, and all providing an online booking service, there’s plenty of choice and booking in advance is easy. Vietnam Airlines is Vietnam’s national carrier. It has a comprehensive domestic network and a growing international one. Following names are Vietjet Air, Bamboo Airways, Jetstar Pacific Airlines.

Vietnam ranked 60th in the world for mobile speeds and 59th for fixed broadband speeds during May 2020. Internet and Wi-Fi are widely available throughout Vietnam. Something like 98% of hotels and guesthouses have Wi-Fi; only in very remote places (such as national parks, islands) is it not standard. Wi-Fi is almost always free of charge. Many cafes and restaurants also have (free) Wi-Fi. Connection speeds are normally fast and stably. Most travelers also surf the net using 4G mobile phone connections.

In Vietnam, Google (including Gmail, Google Maps, Youtube…) Facebook and TikTok are tops and Twitter isn’t blocked.

SIM cards are easy to get and affordable in Vietnam so there is no excuse for not getting one, even if you’re only traveling through for few days. For only 5 USD, you can enjoy a 2GB mobile data valid for 30 days with a speed up to 30Mbps. The cost of Vietnam sim card (mobile data) is between 5 USD to 14 USD, equivalent to 2GB – 20GB. Make sure your phone is unlocked. You can purchase SIM cards almost everywhere, including at the airport, mini marts, street vendors and travel agencies. The biggest mobile networks in Vietnam are Viettel, Vinaphone and Mobifone.

Credit cards are widely accepted throughout Vietnam. Please check with your bank about any foreign transaction. Mostly, transaction fee will be applied by agents, hotels, shops in Vietnam (about 3% for processing fee).

While tipping is not compulsory or always expected, but it is recommended to leave a tip to show your gratitude and appreciation for the food or service. As a guideline if you are traveling, alone we would recommend that you tip your guide between 5-7 USD per day, if traveling in a couple then allow 7-10 USD per couple per day. When traveling in a group of 3-4 then tipping in the region of 10-12 USD per group per day is appropriate, when traveling in groups larger than four then allow an increase roughly equating to 10% more for each additional person in the group.

The phone numbers to call in case of emergency are 113 for the police, 114 for a fire and 115 for an ambulance.

IX. OTHER TRAVEL INFORMATION RELATED TO CAMBODIA, LAOS, THAILAND & MYANMAR

Now Cambodia no longer requires inbound travelers to complete a health declaration form or provide proof of vaccination as 6th Oct 2022, effectively ending all border controls. However, travelers will continue to be subjected to temperature screening at all entry points into Cambodia.

No requirement for Covid-19 insurance coverage as well.

Visa on Arrival for all travelers to Cambodia is also reopened and this is applicable for all travelers arriving in Cambodia by air, land and sea. You can apply Cambodia e-Visa yourself at: https://www.evisa.gov.kh/

From 1 October 2022, passengers is no longer required to present Covid-19 related documents such as a certificate of vaccination and Covid-19 test results upon arrival in Thailand. No requirement for Covid-19 insurance coverage as well.

Laos officially dropped Covid entry restrictions for fully vaccinated tourists from Monday, 9 May 2022. Unvaccinated visitors must produce a Rapid Antigen Test issued within 48 hours of leaving their origin country. Visitors contracting or arriving with Covid-19 will be responsible for all treatment costs. Treatment can be obtained at state and private hospitals, while self-isolation and self-care is another option.

Those who have been infected with Covid-19 and recovered will not need to take an RT-PCR test, however, an official medical certificate will be required.

All international checkpoints is reopened for entry and exit by citizens and foreigners. Vehicles will be allowed to enter and exit as normal, the same as before the pandemic.

Citizens of countries that have bilateral or unilateral visa waiver agreements with Laos may now enter Laos without the need for a visa.

Citizens of countries that do not have a visa waiver agreement with Laos may now apply for a visa at a Lao embassy or consulate abroad or via the e-Visa online system. Visa on arrivals will also be reinstated at certain international checkpoints.

Now Myanmar is officially open for travel if visitors are fully vaccinated and meet the criteria to secure an online e-visa. You will be expected to take a Covid-19 Rapid Antigen Diagnostic Test at the airport, regardless of your vaccination status. You should bring 15,000 MMK (Myanmar Kyat; roughly 7 USD) with you or be prepared to convert cash at one of the exchange counters. This is in addition to the test you need to take 48 hours before your arrival. Which test you can take depends on if you are fully vaccinated or not.

If the test result is negative, you will be free to leave. Travellers who display symptoms or test positive will be isolated and taken to a hospital or hotel designated by the Ministry of Health at their own expense.

International travelers are also required to purchase Myanmar health insurance that covers Covid-19 (starting price 50 USD for insurance valid for 15 days). If the in-country test is positive, the health insurance covers the additional cost of hotel quarantine and hospital fees according to requirements by the health authorities for a maximum of 4,500 USD.

The list of approved hotels where international travelers must wait for results from their PCR test can be found here . There will be two categories of hotels to choose from: Category A which is 5 star accommodation and recommended for travelers and Category B which is 3* accommodation.

Due to the current situation in Myanmar, some areas of the country are either off limits to tourism or require special permission to visit. We recommend you only visiting established tourism centers including Yangon, Mandalay, Bagan and Inle and to avoid overland travel where possible by using flights.

Cash withdrawals from ATMs in Myanmar are not possible at the moment, and businesses do not accept international credit cards. Travelers must pre-arrange their trip to Myanmar through a travel agency and bring lots of cash to cover the entire holiday costs.

We share your passion for travel and are always here, whether you are looking for a family vacation , a beach escape or seeking an adventure or a contentment. We hope that our information gives you some peace of mind and we look forward to welcoming you soon. Please keep in mind that information is correct at the time of 15:00, 31 Oct 2022 (GMT +7, Hanoi Time) and will be updated as soon as possible.

Bookmark our Vietnam Travel Guide to see the most updated news and useful tips related to tourism first.

Thank you for choosing Vietnam Travel !

Updated: 31 Oct 2022

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• COUNTRY INFORMATION
• LATEST NEWS
• OUTBREAK SURVEILLANCE
• TOPICS IN BRIEF
• FACTSHEETS & RESOURCES
• WORLD OVERVIEW

Capital City: Hanoi

Official Languages: Vietnamese

Monetary Unit: dong (VND)

• General Information
• Vaccine Recommendations
• Other Risks

TRAVEL RESTRICTIONS ARE IN PLACE FOR THIS COUNTRY

There are entry requirements for anyone who plans to travel to England from this country. Please check here for further information. Advice may vary in Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland.

The information on these pages should be used to research health risks and to inform the pre-travel consultation.

Due to COVID-19, travel advice is subject to rapid change. Countries may change entry requirements and close their borders at very short notice. Travellers must ensure they check current Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) travel advice in addition to the FCDO specific country page (where available) which provides additional information on travel restrictions and entry requirements in addition to safety and security advice.

Travellers should ideally arrange an appointment with their health professional at least four to six weeks before travel. However, even if time is short, an appointment is still worthwhile. This appointment provides an opportunity to assess health risks taking into account a number of factors including destination, medical history, and planned activities. For those with pre-existing health problems, an earlier appointment is recommended.

All travellers should ensure they have adequate travel health insurance .

A list of useful resources including advice on how to reduce the risk of certain health problems is available below.

• Food and water hygiene
• Insect and tick bite avoidance
• Personal safety
• Sexually transmitted infections
• Sun protection

Details of vaccination recommendations and requirements are provided below.

All travellers

Travellers should be up to date with routine vaccination courses and boosters as recommended in the UK . These vaccinations include for example measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccine and diphtheria-tetanus-polio vaccine.

Country-specific diphtheria recommendations are not provided here. Diphtheria tetanus and polio are combined in a single vaccine in the UK. Therefore, when a tetanus booster is recommended for travellers, diphtheria vaccine is also given. Should there be an outbreak of diphtheria in a country, diphtheria vaccination guidance will be provided.

Those who may be at increased risk of an infectious disease due to their work, lifestyle choice, or certain underlying health problems should be up to date with additional recommended vaccines. See the individual chapters of the 'Green Book' Immunisation against infectious disease for further details.

Certificate requirements

There are no certificate requirements under International Health Regulations.

Most travellers

The vaccines in this section are recommended for most travellers visiting this country. Information on these vaccines can be found by clicking on the blue arrow. Vaccines are listed alphabetically.

Hepatitis A

Hepatitis A is a viral infection transmitted through contaminated food and water or by direct contact with an infectious person. Symptoms are often mild or absent in young children, but the disease can be more serious with advancing age. Recovery can vary from weeks to months. Following hepatitis A infection immunity is lifelong.

All travellers should take care with personal, food and water hygiene.

Hepatitis A vaccination

As hepatitis A vaccine is well tolerated and affords long-lasting protection, it is recommended for all previously unvaccinated travellers.

Hepatitis A in brief

Tetanus is caused by a toxin released from Clostridium tetani bacteria and occurs worldwide. Tetanus bacteria are present in soil and manure and may be introduced through open wounds such as a puncture wound, burn or scratch.

Travellers should thoroughly clean all wounds and seek medical attention for injuries such as animal bites/scratches, burns or wounds contaminated with soil.

Tetanus vaccination

• Travellers should have completed a tetanus vaccination course according to the UK schedule.
• If travelling to a country or area where medical facilities may be limited, a booster dose of a tetanus-containing vaccine is recommended if the last dose was more than ten years ago even if five doses of vaccine have been given previously.

Country-specific information on medical facilities may be found in the 'health' section of the FCDO foreign travel advice pages.

Tetanus in brief

Typhoid is a bacterial infection transmitted through contaminated food and water. Previous typhoid illness may only partially protect against re-infection.

Vaccination is recommended for most travellers, particularly travellers visiting friends and relatives, those in contact with an infected person, young children, frequent or long-stay travellers visiting areas where sanitation and food hygiene are likely to be poor, and laboratory personnel who may handle the bacteria for their work.

Typhoid vaccination

• Oral and injectable typhoid vaccinations are available.

Typhoid in brief

Some travellers.

The vaccines in this section are recommended for some travellers visiting this country. Information on when these vaccines should be considered can be found by clicking on the arrow. Vaccines are listed alphabetically.

Cholera is a bacterial infection transmitted by contaminated food and water. Cholera can cause severe watery diarrhoea although mild infections are common. Most travellers are at low risk.

Cholera vaccination

This oral vaccine is recommended for those whose activities or medical history put them at increased risk. This includes:

• aid workers.
• those going to areas of cholera outbreaks who have limited access to safe water and medical care.
• those for whom vaccination is considered potentially beneficial.

Cholera in brief

Hepatitis b.

Hepatitis B is a viral infection; it is transmitted by exposure to infected blood or body fluids. This mostly occurs during sexual contact or as a result of blood-to-blood contact (for example from contaminated equipment during medical and dental procedures, tattooing or body piercing procedures, and sharing of intravenous needles). Mothers with the virus can also transmit the infection to their baby during childbirth.

Hepatitis B in Vietnam

2% or more of the population are known or thought to be persistently infected with the hepatitis B virus (intermediate/high prevalence).

Travellers should avoid contact with blood or body fluids. This includes:

• avoiding unprotected sexual intercourse.
• avoiding tattooing, piercing, public shaving, and acupuncture (unless sterile equipment is used).
• not sharing needles or other injection equipment.
• following universal precautions if working in a medical/dental/high risk setting.

A sterile medical equipment kit may be helpful when travelling to resource poor areas.

Hepatitis B vaccination

Vaccination could be considered for all travellers, and is recommended for those whose activities or medical history put them at increased risk including:

• those who may have unprotected sex.
• those who may be exposed to contaminated needles through injecting drug use.
• those who may be exposed to blood or body fluids through their work (e.g. health workers).
• those who may be exposed to contaminated needles as a result of having medical or dental care e.g. those with pre-existing medical conditions and those travelling for medical care abroad including those intending to receive renal dialysis overseas.
• long-stay travellers.
• those who are participating in contact sports.
• families adopting children from this country.

Hepatitis B in brief

Japanese encephalitis.

Japanese encephalitis (JE) is a viral infection transmitted to humans by the bite of an infected mosquito. These mosquitoes usually bite between dusk and dawn, mainly in rural areas; especially where there are rice fields, swamps and marshes. Mosquitoes become infected by biting JE infected animals (particularly pigs) or birds.

Travellers are at increased risk of infection when visiting rural areas. Short trips (usually less than a month) especially if only travelling to urban areas, are considered lower risk.

Japanese encephalitis in Vietnam

JE occurs in this country, with year-round transmission in the south and from May to October in the north. Cases may be reported outside these months in the north of the country.

All travellers should avoid mosquito bites particularly between dusk and dawn.

Japanese encephalitis vaccination

• Vaccination is recommended for those whose activities put them at increased risk (see above).
• Vaccination could be considered for those on shorter trips if the risk is considered to be sufficient e.g. those spending time in areas where the mosquito breeds such as rice fields, marshlands, or pig farming areas.

Japanese encephalitis in brief

Rabies is a viral infection which is usually transmitted following contact with the saliva of an infected animal most often via a bite, scratch or lick to an open wound or mucous membrane (such as on the eye, nose or mouth). Although many different animals can transmit the virus, most cases follow a bite or scratch from an infected dog. In some parts of the world, bats are an important source of infection.

Rabies symptoms can take some time to develop, but when they do, the condition is almost always fatal.

The risk of exposure is increased by certain activities and length of stay (see below). Children are at increased risk as they are less likely to avoid contact with animals and to report a bite, scratch or lick.

Rabies in Vietnam

Rabies is considered a risk and has been reported in domestic animals in this country. Bats may also carry rabies-like viruses.

• Travellers should avoid contact with all animals. Rabies is preventable with prompt post-exposure treatment.
• Following a possible exposure, wounds should be thoroughly cleansed and an urgent local medical assessment sought, even if the wound appears trivial.
• Post-exposure treatment and advice should be in accordance with  national guidelines.

Rabies vaccination

A full course of pre-exposure vaccines simplifies and shortens the course of post-exposure treatment and removes the need for rabies immunoglobulin which is in short supply world-wide.

Pre-exposure vaccinations are recommended for travellers whose activities put them at increased risk including:

• those at risk due to their work (e.g. laboratory staff working with the virus, those working with animals or health workers who may be caring for infected patients).
• those travelling to areas where access to post-exposure treatment and medical care is limited.
• those planning higher risk activities such as running or cycling.
• long-stay travellers (more than one month).

Rabies in brief

Tuberculosis.

TB is a bacterial infection most commonly affecting the lungs but can affect any part of the body. When a person with TB in their lungs or throat coughs or sneezes they could pass TB on to other people. TB is curable but can be serious if not treated.

The BCG vaccination helps to protect some people, particularly babies and young children who are at increased risk from TB.

Tuberculosis in Vietnam

This country has reported an annual TB incidence of greater than or equal to 40 cases per 100,000 population at least once in the last five years ( further details ).

Travellers should avoid close contact with individuals known to have infectious pulmonary (lung) or laryngeal (throat) TB.

Those at risk during their work (such as healthcare workers) should take appropriate infection control and prevention precautions.

Tuberculosis (BCG) vaccination

BCG vaccine is recommended for those at increased risk of developing severe disease and/or of exposure to TB infection. See UK Health Security Agency Immunisation against infectious disease, the 'Green Book '.

For travellers, BCG vaccine is recommended for:

• Unvaccinated, children under 16 years of age, who are going to live for more than 3 months in this country. A tuberculin skin test is required prior to vaccination for all children from 6 years of age and may be recommended for some younger children.
• Unvaccinated, tuberculin skin test-negative individuals at risk due to their work such as healthcare or laboratory workers who have direct contact with TB patients or potentially infectious clinical material and vets and abattoir workers who handle animal material, which could be infected with TB.

There are specific contraindications to BCG vaccine. Health professionals must be trained and assessed as competent to administer this vaccine intradermally.

Following administration, no further vaccines should be administered in the same limb for 3 months.

The BCG vaccine is given once only, booster doses are not recommended.

Tuberculosis in brief

Malaria is a serious illness caused by infection of red blood cells with a parasite called Plasmodium. The disease is transmitted by mosquitoes which predominantly feed between dusk and dawn.

Symptoms usually begin with a fever (high temperature) of 38°C (100°F) or more. Other symptoms may include feeling cold and shivery, headache, nausea, vomiting and aching muscles. Symptoms may appear between eight days and one year after the infected mosquito bite.

Prompt diagnosis and treatment is required as people with malaria can deteriorate quickly. Those at higher risk of malaria, or of severe complications from malaria, include pregnant women, infants and young children, the elderly, travellers who do not have a functioning spleen and those visiting friends and relatives.

Travellers should follow an ABCD guide to preventing malaria:

A wareness of the risk – Risk depends on the specific location, season of travel, length of stay, activities and type of accommodation.

B ite prevention – Travellers should take mosquito bite avoidance measures.

C hemoprophylaxis – Travellers should take antimalarials (malaria prevention tablets) if appropriate for the area (see below). No antimalarials are 100% effective but taking them in combination with mosquito bite avoidance measures will give substantial protection against malaria.

D iagnosis – Travellers who develop a fever of 38°C [100°F] or higher more than one week after being in a malaria risk area, or who develop any symptoms suggestive of malaria within a year of return should seek immediate medical care. Emergency standby treatment may be considered for those going to remote areas with limited access to medical attention.

• There is a low risk of malaria in the southern part of the country in the provinces of Tay Ninh, Lam Dong, Dak Lak, Gia Lai, and Kon Tum, and other rural areas of Vietnam: awareness of risk and bite avoidance recommended.
• There is no risk in large cities, including Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh (Saigon), the Red River delta, coastal areas north of Nha Trang and Phu Quoc Island: bite avoidance recommended.

Special risk groups

In low risk areas, antimalarials may be considered in exceptional circumstances for travellers who are at higher risk of malaria (such as long term travellers visiting friends and relatives), or of severe complications from malaria (such as the elderly [over 70 years], the immunosuppressed, those with complex co-morbidities, pregnant women, infants and young children). The final decision whether or not to advise antimalarials rests with the travel health advisor and the traveller after individual risk assessment.

Travellers with an absent or poorly functioning spleen should be dissuaded from travel to any area with risk of malaria. Where travel is essential awareness, rigorous bite avoidance and antimalarials should be advise, even for the low risk areaa.

For special risk groups, you may wish to seek specialist advice. For the low risk areas in this country/area atovaquone/proguanil OR doxycycline would be suitable options.

Antimalarial recommendations map

• Click on map to open in a new window
• Malaria in brief
• Malaria factsheet
• Children's antimalarial dose table
• Malaria prevention guidelines for travellers from the UK

There are some risks that are relevant to all travellers regardless of destination. These may for example include road traffic and other accidents, diseases transmitted by contaminated food and water, sexually transmitted infections, or health issues related to the heat or cold.

Some additional risks (which may be present in all or part of this country) are mentioned below and are presented alphabetically. Select risk to expand information.

There is a risk of altitude illness when travelling to destinations of 2,500 metres (8,200 feet) or higher. Important risk factors are the altitude gained, rate of ascent and sleeping altitude. Rapid ascent without a period of acclimatisation puts a traveller at higher risk.

There are three syndromes; acute mountain sickness (AMS), high-altitude cerebral oedema (HACE) and high-altitude pulmonary oedema (HAPE). HACE and HAPE require immediate descent and medical treatment.

Altitude illness in Vietnam

There is a point of elevation in this country higher than 2,500 metres. An example place of interest: Mt Fansipan 3,143m.

• Travellers should spend a few days at an altitude below 3,000m.
• Where possible travellers should avoid travel from altitudes less than 1,200m to altitudes greater than 3,500m in a single day.
• Ascent above 3,000m should be gradual. Travellers should avoid increasing sleeping elevation by more than 500m per day and ensure a rest day (at the same altitude) every three or four days.
• Acetazolamide can be used to assist with acclimatisation, but should not replace gradual ascent.
• Travellers who develop symptoms of AMS (headache, fatigue, loss of appetite, nausea and sleep disturbance) should avoid further ascent. In the absence of improvement or with progression of symptoms the first response should be to descend.
• Development of HACE or HAPE symptoms requires immediate descent and emergency medical treatment.

Altitude illness in brief

Biting insects or ticks.

Insect or tick bites can cause irritation and infections of the skin at the site of a bite. They can also spread certain diseases.

Diseases in South-eastern Asia

There is a risk of insect or tick-borne diseases in some areas of South-eastern Asia. This includes diseases such as  chikungunya ,  leishmaniasis  and  scrub typhus .

• All travellers should avoid insect and tick bites day and night.
• There are no vaccinations (or medications) to prevent these diseases.

Further information about specific insect or tick-borne diseases for this country can be found, if appropriate on this page, in other sections of the country information pages and the  insect and tick bite avoidance factsheet .

Dengue is a viral infection spread by mosquitoes which mainly feed during daytime hours. It causes a flu-like illness, which can occasionally develop into a more serious life-threatening illness. Severe dengue is rare in travellers.

The mosquitoes that spread dengue are more common in towns, cities and surrounding areas.

Dengue in Vietnam

There is a risk of dengue in this country.

• Travellers should avoid mosquito bites particularly during daytime hours.
• A dengue vaccine is licensed in the UK for the prevention of dengue disease in individuals from 4 years of age. The Joint Committee on Vaccination and Immunisation (JCVI) and World Health Organization are in the process of reviewing the product information. Recommendations on the use of this vaccine will be published in due course.

Dengue in brief

Seasonal influenza is a viral infection of the respiratory tract and spreads easily from person to person via respiratory droplets when coughing and sneezing. Symptoms appear rapidly and include fever, muscle aches, headache, malaise (feeling unwell), cough, sore throat and a runny nose. In healthy individuals, symptoms improve without treatment within two to seven days. Severe illness is more common in those aged 65 years or over, those under 2 years of age, or those who have underlying medical conditions that increase their risk for complications of influenza.

Seasonal influenza in Vietnam

Seasonal influenza occurs throughout the world. In the northern hemisphere (including the UK), most influenza occurs from as early as October through to March. In the southern hemisphere, influenza mostly occurs between April and September. In the tropics, influenza can occur throughout the year.

All travellers should:

• Avoid close contact with symptomatic individuals
• Avoid crowded conditions where possible
• Wash their hands frequently
• Practise ‘cough hygiene’: sneezing or coughing into a tissue and promptly discarding it safely, and washing their hands
• Avoid travel if unwell with influenza-like symptoms
• A vaccine is available in certain circumstances (see below)*

*In the UK, seasonal influenza vaccine is offered routinely each year to those at higher risk of developing of severe disease following influenza infection, and certain additional groups such as healthcare workers and children as part of the UK national schedule (see information on vaccination ). For those who do not fall into these groups, vaccination may be available privately.

If individuals at higher risk of severe disease following influenza infection are travelling to a country when influenza is likely to be circulating they should ensure they received a flu vaccination in the previous 12 months.

The vaccine used in the UK protects against the strains predicted to occur during the winter months of the northern hemisphere. It is not possible to obtain vaccine for the southern hemisphere in the UK, but the vaccine used during the UK influenza season should still provide important protection against strains likely to occur during the southern hemisphere influenza season, and in the tropics.

Avian influenza

Avian influenza viruses can rarely infect and cause disease in humans. Such cases are usually associated with close exposure to infected bird or animal populations. Where appropriate, information on these will be available in the outbreaks and news sections of the relevant country pages. Seasonal influenza vaccines will not provide protection against avian influenza.

Avian influenza in brief

Outdoor air quality.

Poor air quality is a significant public health problem in many parts of the world. Exposure to high levels of air pollution over short time periods (e.g. minutes/hours/days) and longer time periods (e.g. years) is linked to many different acute and chronic health problems. These effects are mainly on the respiratory (lungs and airways) and cardiovascular (heart function and blood circulation) systems.

Current information on world air quality is available from the world air quality index project .

Travellers with health problems that might make them more vulnerable to the effects of air pollution who are travelling to areas of high pollution should:

• discuss their travel plans with their doctor, and carry adequate supplies of their regular medication.
• take sensible precautions to minimise their exposure to high levels of air pollution.
• check local air quality data and amend their activities accordingly.
• take notice of any health advisories published by the local Ministry of Health and Department for Environment, and follow the guidance provided.

It is unclear if face masks are beneficial at reducing exposure and may make breathing more difficult for those with pre-existing lung conditions. Those who choose to use one should make sure that the mask fits well and know how to wear it properly.

Outdoor air quality in brief

Zika virus (ZIKV) is a viral infection spread by mosquitoes which predominantly feed during daytime hours. A small number of cases of sexual transmission of ZIKV have also been reported. Most people infected with ZIKV have no symptoms. When symptoms do occur, they are usually mild and short-lived. Serious complications and deaths are not common. However, ZIKV is a cause of Congenital Zika Syndrome (microcephaly and other congenital anomalies) and neurological complications such as Guillain-Barré syndrome.

Zika virus in Vietnam

There is a risk of Zika virus in this country. Details of specific affected areas within this country are not available, but information on current outbreaks where available will be reported on our outbreak surveillance database.

Pregnant women should discuss the suitability of travel and the potential risk that Zika virus may present with their health care provider.

• All travellers should avoid mosquito bites particularly during daytime hours.
• There is no vaccination or medication to prevent Zika virus infection.
• Women should avoid becoming pregnant while travelling in this country, and for 2 months (8 weeks) after their last possible Zika virus exposure* (see below if male partner has travelled).
• If a woman develops symptoms compatible with Zika virus infection, it is recommended she avoids becoming pregnant for a further 2 months following recovery.
• Women who visited this country while pregnant, or who become pregnant within 2 months after their last possible Zika virus exposure*, should contact their GP, obstetrician or midwife for further advice, even if they have not been unwell.

Please note screening of returning travellers without Zika virus symptoms is not available on the NHS. Couples planning pregnancy in the very near future should consider whether they should avoid travel to a country or area with risk of Zika virus, rather than delay conception for the recommended period (see below) after travel. This particularly includes couples in assisted fertility programmes.

Prevention of sexual transmission

Couples should follow guidance on prevention of sexual transmission of Zika virus and avoid conception as follows:

• If both partners travelled, for 3 months after last possible Zika virus exposure*
• Male traveller only, for 3 months after last possible Zika virus exposure*
• Female traveller only, for 2 months after last possible Zika virus exposure*

See further information for pregnant women, their partners and couples planning pregnancy .

*Last possible Zika virus exposure is defined as the later of either the date of leaving a country or area with risk for Zika virus transmission, or the date on which unprotected sexual contact with a potentially infectious partner took place.

See detailed guidance on factors to consider when assessing the risk of Zika virus.

Zika virus in brief

COVID-19 disease is caused by the coronavirus SARS-CoV2. The main symptoms of COVID-19 are a new continuous cough, a high temperature, and a loss of, or change in, normal sense of taste or smell. Symptoms range from mild to life-threatening. Older people and  those with underlying health problems  are more likely to develop severe disease.

COVID-19 is spread through close contact with people who have the virus. It is mainly transmitted from person to person by breathing in droplets produced when someone infected with the virus breathes, speaks, coughs or sneezes. It is also spread by touching the infected droplets on surfaces, then touching the eyes, nose or mouth.

COVID-19 vaccines provide high levels of protection against severe illness, hospitalisation, or dying from the virus. Vaccination against COVID-19 reduces, but does not eliminate the risk of infection, so social distancing and personal and respiratory hygiene remain important interventions, particularly during overseas travel.

Travellers should always check the UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) travel advice and their  country-specific pages  for the latest COVID-19 travel advisories which may include information on travel restrictions, quarantine, COVID-19 testing or vaccination requirements. This includes considering the recommendations and requirements for any transit countries.

Travellers should be aware that COVID-19 case numbers in individual countries/areas can increase rapidly, and healthcare capacity and country requirements can change at short notice.

COVID-19 in Vietnam

Most countries worldwide present a risk of exposure to COVID-19. The risk of COVID-19, public health policy, and travel advice or restrictions may change quickly, therefore travellers should ensure they have access to up to date information on COVID-19 and be prepared for rapid changes in guidance both before and during travel.

All travellers should check the FCDO travel advice and carefully consider their personal situation and risks of COVID-19 before travel to this country. This is particularly important in those at higher risk from COVID-19 who may wish to seek medical advice before travel.

Individuals entering or returning to the UK may be required to follow additional  UK border measures .

If travelling to this country, travellers should:

• Consider the risk at all destinations including any transit countries, and the risk during travel itself.
• Check with the airline/tour operator about preventive measures in place to reduce risk during travel.
• Follow the latest guidance on social distancing and face coverings, including any local requirements and maintain good hand, respiratory, and personal hygiene at all times. This may be particularly important if staying with friends and family.
• Ensure they are up to date with their COVID-19 vaccination courses and boosters as recommended in the UK vaccination programme.

See  guidance on factors to consider when assessing the risk of COVID-19 for travellers .

If travellers develop COVID-19 symptoms while abroad, they should:

• Follow local guidelines on self-isolation, testing and avoiding travel.
• Contact their travel insurance provider.
• Seek medical advice if needed.

COVID-19 in brief

Lunar New Year: Travel advice

Celebrating the Lunar New Year abroad? Lunar New Year is a public holiday celebrated across several days in many countries worldwide

Changes to the Country Information pages: Zika

UK Health Security Agency and NaTHNaC have reviewed and updated country-specific Zika information and prevention advice

Malaria: a reminder for travellers over the winter holiday season

Advice for travellers and health professionals about malaria

Using information collated from a variety of sources, we regularly review and update information on overseas disease outbreaks and other health issues that may affect the UK traveller.

Please note that not all cases of disease or outbreaks are reported ; some diseases may only be reported if they occur outside of the usual recognised risk area or season, or they have been reported in greater than usual numbers.

Further information on the Outbreak Surveillance section.

Influenza A(H9N2) in Vietnam

As of 7 April 2024, the Vietnam Department of Information and Communications reported a confirmed human case of avian influenza A(H9N2) infection. This is the first confirmed human case of avian influenza A(H9N2) reported in Vietnam. To date, no further cases have been detected among close contacts.

Foreign travel advice

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COVID-19: travel health notice for all travellers

Vietnam travel advice

Latest updates: Editorial change

Last updated: June 5, 2024 06:24 ET

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Safety and security, entry and exit requirements, laws and culture, natural disasters and climate, vietnam - exercise a high degree of caution.

Exercise a high degree of caution in Vietnam due to high rate of petty crime.

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Petty crime

Petty crime, such as pickpocketing and purse snatching, occurs frequently. It’s most prevalent in larger cities and may increase during major public holidays, such as Tet (Lunar New Year).

Criminals work alone or in groups and may use various techniques to distract you and steal your belongings. They may try to grab your bag and other valuables while passing on a motorbike or slash your bag in crowded streets and markets. 

Theft is frequent:  

• in popular tourist areas
• in markets, shopping centres and commercial streets
• on public transportation including sleeper trains
• in transportation hubs such as airports and train stations
• in restaurants, including patios and outdoor cafés
• at beaches and seaside destinations

While travelling:

• ensure that your belongings, including your passport and other travel documents, are secure at all times
• keep a digital copy of your identity and travel documents
• avoid showing signs of affluence or wearing expensive jewellery 
• avoid carrying large sums of cash
• avoid isolated areas, especially at night
• pay attention to your surroundings, particularly in crowded and tourist areas
• be extra cautious when withdrawing cash from ATMs

Violent crime

Although violent crimes targeting foreigners are rarer, they may occur. In some cases, criminals have used weapons such as knives and razors. Threats of physical injury related to personal disputes also occasionally occur.

• If you are involved in a dispute, contact the police as soon as possible
• If you are threatened by robbers, don’t resist

Residential break-ins

Residential break-ins occur, especially in large cities and may increase before and during the Tet holiday (Lunar New Year). Burglars may target houses or apartments rented or owned by tourists and foreigners.

• Stay in accommodations with adequate security measures  
• Make sure you lock doors and windows at night and when you’re away

Women’s safety

Women travelling alone may be subject to some forms of harassment and verbal abuse. Sexual assault and harassment do occur, including:

• in beach destinations
• in bars, nightclubs and entertainment districts
• on taxis and public transportation

Local authorities may not always respond adequately to reports of sexual violence and harassment. If you are a victim of sexual assault:

• seek immediate medical assistance, whether or not you appear to have been physically harmed
• contact the local police and ensure they file a report
• inform consular officials at the nearest Canadian embassy or consulate

Advice for women travellers

Credit card and ATM fraud

Credit and debit card as well as ATM fraud occurs frequently.

• Avoid using your credit card in small establishments
• Consider using a card with a small credit limit
• Cover the keypad with one hand when entering your PIN
• Pay careful attention when others are handling your cards
• Avoid using card readers with an irregular or unusual feature
• Use ATMs located in public areas or inside a bank or business
• Check for any unauthorized transactions on your account statements

Cybercrime occurs. Perpetrators may compromise public Wi-Fi networks to steal credit card or personal information.

• Avoid using unsecured public Wi-Fi networks
• Avoid making purchases on unencrypted websites
• Be cautious when posting information on social media
• Be especially vigilant if you decide to meet someone you met online
• Don’t click a suspicious link in an email or text message asking for your credit card details

At the airport

Criminals posing as taxi drivers have targeted foreign visitors at Nội Bài International Airport in Hanoi and robbed them by forcing them to withdraw money from ATMs.

Travellers have also been robbed by drivers who greeted them upon arrival with a placard showing their name.

• Arrange your pickup with your hotel before arrival, or use authorized airport taxis
• Confirm the driver’s identity and the licence plate before getting in the car

Gambling scams

Tourists have been victims of gambling scams in Hanoi, as well as in Ho Chi Minh City, particularly in the Pham Ngu Lao neighbourhood.

The scam consists of a friendly invitation sent to the victim to go to someone’s home in order to meet a relative interested in visiting Canada. While waiting for the relative, the scammers suggest a casual game of cards involving an initial small wager. Some victims have lost thousands of dollars over the course of an evening.

Be wary of unsolicited proposals from strangers.

If you’ve been scammed:

• get to a safe location immediately
• take note, as soon as possible, of the name and address of the facility where you were held
• notify the police and obtain a report
• if a bank card was involved, report the scam to your banking company, which will likely request a copy of the police report to cancel the transaction

Overseas fraud

Spiked food and drinks

Snacks, beverages, gum and cigarettes may contain drugs that could put you at risk of sexual assault and robbery.

• Be wary of accepting these items from new acquaintances
• Never leave food or drinks unattended or in the care of strangers

Unregulated alcohol

Some people died after consuming unregulated and adulterated rice wine due to high levels of methanol.

• Be cautious if you choose to drink alcohol
• Only consume reputable alcohol brands
• Avoid buying alcohol from individuals or street vendors
• Seek medical assistance if you begin to feel sick

Alcohol, drugs and travel

Demonstrations

Current situation in dak lak.

An increased police presence in Dak Lak continues, after organized attacks on a police station in June 2023.

If you are in the area, do not photograph security forces.

Public demonstrations are rare since local authorities don’t usually authorize them. Demonstrating without authorization can lead to heavy consequences, including lengthy prison sentences.

• Avoid areas where demonstrations and large gatherings are taking place
• Don’t photograph demonstrations
• Follow the instructions of local authorities
• Monitor local media for information on ongoing demonstrations

Mass gatherings (large-scale events)

Internet censorship and surveillance

Within the Vietnamese territory, local authorities block access to several:

• social media
• search engines
• online services

You shouldn’t expect internet privacy.

Local authorities may monitor your communications at any time. They may review the content stored or consulted on your electronic devices. They may also place certain foreigners under electronic surveillance. They can search your home or hotel room without your knowledge or consent.

Cyber security while travelling

Foreign journalists and other media workers in Vietnam may face considerable restrictions in the context of their work. The Vietnamese government may employ measures such as:

• physical and electronic surveillance
• delaying or refusing renewals of press cards and visas
• intimidation and harassment

Be particularly vigilant if researching or reporting on subjects critical of or sensitive to the government.

Landmines and war remnants

Landmines and unexploded ordnance still pose a serious risk in several areas, particularly:

• in the province of Quảng Trị
• along the border with Laos
• in North and Central Vietnam

Unmarked minefields are common. If you plan travelling outside of major tourist destinations:

• pay attention to signs indicating the possible presence of landmines
• remain on paved roads
• avoid open fields, roadside ditches, shoulders and unmarked trails
• report any suspicious items to local authorities

Adventure tourism

Outdoor activities, such as trekking, zip-lining, rock climbing, speleology, or parasailing and other adventure activities can be dangerous if unprepared. Trails are not always marked, and weather conditions can change rapidly, especially during the rainy season.

Tour operators may not always adhere to international safety standards.

If you intend to practice adventure tourism:

• never do so alone, and do not part with your expedition companions
• consider hiring an experienced guide from a reputable company 
• obtain detailed information on your activity and on the environment in which you will be setting out  
• buy travel insurance that includes helicopter rescue and medical evacuation   
• ensure that your physical condition is good enough to meet the challenges of your activity  
• avoid venturing off marked trails  
• ensure that you’re adequately equipped and bring sufficient water   
• stay informed about weather and other conditions that may pose a hazard  
• refrain from using facilities or equipment if you have doubts on their safety  
• inform a family member or friend of your itinerary  

Water activities

Tidal changes and strong winds can cause hazardous currents and riptides.

Swimming and diving

Beaches are not always supervised.

Corals, sea urchins, jellyfish and other aquatic life found along reefs may be poisonous. A sting to the touch can cause poisoning or infection.

If you plan to dive:

• choose a reputable company 
• always respect warning flags advising of dangerous conditions
• ask about the presence of dangerous species
• seek immediate medical attention in case of injury
• wear swimming shoes to protect yourself from reefs, rocks, corals or sea urchins
• keep a safe distance from boats and restricted areas
• avoid beaches or coastal areas during periods of severe weather warnings
• avoid diving into unknown waters, as hidden rocks or shallow depths can cause serious injury or death
• follow the advice of the local authorities

Boat accidents have occurred due to the overloading and poor maintenance of some vessels, including in Ha Long Bay.

• Choose a reputable boating company
• Ensure that your tour operator follows up-to-date safety regulations
• Don’t board vessels that appear overloaded or unseaworthy

Water safety abroad

Although rare in Vietnam, pirates commit attacks and armed robbery against ships in coastal waters.

Live piracy report  - International Maritime Bureau

Road safety

Road safety is poor throughout the country. 

Fatal accidents are frequent. They frequently involve motorcycle and pedestrians are commonly victims.

Always use elevated walkways or pedestrian bridges when available.

Road conditions

Road conditions are poor throughout the country.

Driving can be dangerous due to:  

• poorly maintained roads and vehicles
• traffic jams and heavy traffic, especially in urban areas
• potholes 
• slippery roads during the rainy season

Driving habits

Drivers don’t always respect traffic laws.  

Some vehicles, especially motorcycles, drive against the flow of traffic and on the sidewalks.

If you plan to travel by car in Vietnam, you should consider hiring a driver.

If you choose to drive:

• always drive defensively
• avoid travelling after dark or during adverse weather conditions
• avoid driving a motorcycle
• Make sure you have proper insurance and a valid licence

Public transportation

Official taxis are generally safe.

Motorcycle taxis (known as “xe oms”) are not safe.

• Avoid motorcycle taxis
• Use only official taxis or a trusted ridesharing app
• Negotiate the fare in advance, or insist that the driver use the meter
• Never share a taxi with a stranger
• Be familiar with your hotel’s address and the neighbourhood to avoid being brought to a wrong location

Bus and coach accidents are common.

Trains are generally reliable.

Thefts have been reported on certain train lines, including sleeper trains.

Ticket stub is required to exit the train station. Passengers without a ticket stub will be required to pay the fare again.

Retain your ticket stub when travelling by train.

Ferry accidents have occurred due to the overloading and poor maintenance of some vessels, particularly on the line connecting Ho Chi Minh City to Vung Tau.

Don’t board vessels that appear overloaded or unseaworthy.

Transport within Vietnam - Vietnam Tourism

We do not make assessments on the compliance of foreign domestic airlines with international safety standards.

Information about foreign domestic airlines

Every country or territory decides who can enter or exit through its borders. The Government of Canada cannot intervene on your behalf if you do not meet your destination’s entry or exit requirements.

We have obtained the information on this page from the Vietnamese authorities. It can, however, change at any time.

Verify this information with the  Foreign Representatives in Canada .

Entry requirements vary depending on the type of passport you use for travel.

Before you travel, check with your transportation company about passport requirements. Its rules on passport validity may be more stringent than the country’s entry rules.

Regular Canadian passport

Your passport must be valid at least 6 months beyond the date you expect to leave Vietnam.

Passport for official travel

Different entry rules may apply.

Official travel

Passport with “X” gender identifier

While the Government of Canada issues passports with an “X” gender identifier, it cannot guarantee your entry or transit through other countries. You might face entry restrictions in countries that do not recognize the “X” gender identifier. Before you leave, check with the closest foreign representative for your destination.

Other travel documents

Different entry rules may apply when travelling with a temporary passport or an emergency travel document. Before you leave, check with the closest foreign representative for your destination.

Useful links

• Foreign Representatives in Canada
• Canadian passports

Tourist visa: required Business visa: required Student visa: required Work visa: required

E-visa authorization

If you have a valid Canadian passport, you may be eligible to apply online for an e-visa. This can be a single-entry or multiple-entry electronic tourist visa, valid for a maximum of 90 days. It allows you to enter Vietnam via the port of entry indicated in the visa approval notice only. Some restrictions apply.

For visits longer than 90 days, you must get a visa from the nearest Vietnamese embassy before departure.

Apply for an e-visa  - Immigration Department of Vietnam

Visa exemptions

Canadian spouses or children of Vietnamese citizens may be eligible for a visa exemption certificate.

Contact the Embassy of Vietnam in Canada for more information on this process.

Visa extension

You must have a visa to enter Vietnam.

If required, you can request a visa extension at:

• the Vietnam Immigration Department in Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh City
• certain local travel agencies and tour companies

Vietnamese visas in expired Canadian passports are not valid. The visa needs to be transferred to the new passport.

Overstaying your Vietnamese visa or having the wrong type of visa is a serious matter. You may be delayed from onward travel until a fine is paid.

Check the visa validity and conditions carefully.

Registration

You must report your presence to local authorities upon arrival.

Commercial accommodations will generally file the declaration on your behalf. If you're staying in a non-commercial accommodation, you must do so with the nearest police station.

Make sure you request the return of your passport once it has been registered by hotel staff.

The hotel staff may ask to see your passport at check-in. They may make copies of it. They may also insist on holding your passport until you leave. There is no legal reason for this.

• Never leave your passport or any other ID document with anyone
• Ask for your documents to be returned to you as soon as check-in is complete

Travel restrictions

Travel near military facilities is restricted:

• in some parts of the central highlands
• in some border area

If you wish to visit a village, commune or ward that is close to the border, you must obtain permission from the provincial police department.

Contact the relevant local authority to confirm these requirements.

Health screening

Upon entry, you may be subject to a body temperature check.

Vietnamese authorities may place an exit ban on certain individuals to prevent them from leaving the country.

An exit ban can relate to investigations into:

• an individual, their family or an employer
• criminal and civil matters, such as business disputes or motor vehicle accidents
• employment without a valid work permit
• unpaid financial debts

It is difficult to obtain information on bans from Vietnamese authorities. An exit ban can be requested by people involved in any of these circumstances. You may not be aware that authorities have placed an exit ban on you until you try to leave the country. Your passport may be seized until the case is fully investigated and settled.

If you're unable to leave the country because of an exit ban, consult a lawyer and contact the closest office of the Government of Canada.

• Children and travel

Learn more about travelling with children .

Yellow fever

Learn about potential entry requirements related to yellow fever (vaccines section).

Relevant Travel Health Notices

• Global Measles Notice - 13 March, 2024
• Zika virus: Advice for travellers - 31 August, 2023
• COVID-19 and International Travel - 13 March, 2024

This section contains information on possible health risks and restrictions regularly found or ongoing in the destination. Follow this advice to lower your risk of becoming ill while travelling. Not all risks are listed below.

Consult a health care professional or visit a travel health clinic preferably 6 weeks before you travel to get personalized health advice and recommendations.

Routine vaccines

Be sure that your  routine vaccinations , as per your province or territory , are up-to-date before travelling, regardless of your destination.

Some of these vaccinations include measles-mumps-rubella (MMR), diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis, polio, varicella (chickenpox), influenza and others.

Pre-travel vaccines and medications

You may be at risk for preventable diseases while travelling in this destination. Talk to a travel health professional about which medications or vaccines may be right for you, based on your destination and itinerary. 

Yellow fever is a disease caused by a flavivirus from the bite of an infected mosquito.

Travellers get vaccinated either because it is required to enter a country or because it is recommended for their protection.

• There is no risk of yellow fever in this country.

Country Entry Requirement*

• Proof of vaccination is not required to enter this country.

Recommendation

• Vaccination is not recommended.

* It is important to note that country entry requirements may not reflect your risk of yellow fever at your destination. It is recommended that you contact the nearest diplomatic or consular office of the destination(s) you will be visiting to verify any additional entry requirements.

About Yellow Fever

Yellow Fever Vaccination Centres in Canada

There is a risk of hepatitis A in this destination. It is a disease of the liver. People can get hepatitis A if they ingest contaminated food or water, eat foods prepared by an infectious person, or if they have close physical contact (such as oral-anal sex) with an infectious person, although casual contact among people does not spread the virus.

Practise  safe food and water precautions and wash your hands often. Vaccination is recommended for all travellers to areas where hepatitis A is present.

Measles is a highly contagious viral disease. It can spread quickly from person to person by direct contact and through droplets in the air.

Anyone who is not protected against measles is at risk of being infected with it when travelling internationally.

Regardless of where you are going, talk to a health care professional before travelling to make sure you are fully protected against measles.

Japanese encephalitis is a viral infection that can cause swelling of the brain.  It is spread to humans through the bite of an infected mosquito. Risk is very low for most travellers. Travellers at relatively higher risk may want to consider vaccination for JE prior to travelling.

Travellers are at higher risk if they will be:

• travelling long term (e.g. more than 30 days)
• making multiple trips to endemic areas
• staying for extended periods in rural areas
• visiting an area suffering a JE outbreak
• engaging in activities involving high contact with mosquitos (e.g., entomologists)

  Hepatitis B is a risk in every destination. It is a viral liver disease that is easily transmitted from one person to another through exposure to blood and body fluids containing the hepatitis B virus.  Travellers who may be exposed to blood or other bodily fluids (e.g., through sexual contact, medical treatment, sharing needles, tattooing, acupuncture or occupational exposure) are at higher risk of getting hepatitis B.

Hepatitis B vaccination is recommended for all travellers. Prevent hepatitis B infection by practicing safe sex, only using new and sterile drug equipment, and only getting tattoos and piercings in settings that follow public health regulations and standards.

Malaria  is a serious and sometimes fatal disease that is caused by parasites spread through the bites of mosquitoes.   There is a risk of malaria in certain areas and/or during a certain time of year in this destination. 

Antimalarial medication may be recommended depending on your itinerary and the time of year you are travelling. Consult a health care professional or visit a travel health clinic before travelling to discuss your options. It is recommended to do this 6 weeks before travel, however, it is still a good idea any time before leaving.    Protect yourself from mosquito bites at all times:  • Cover your skin and use an approved insect repellent on uncovered skin.  • Exclude mosquitoes from your living area with screening and/or closed, well-sealed doors and windows. • Use insecticide-treated bed nets if mosquitoes cannot be excluded from your living area.  • Wear permethrin-treated clothing.    If you develop symptoms similar to malaria when you are travelling or up to a year after you return home, see a health care professional immediately. Tell them where you have been travelling or living. 

In this destination, rabies is carried by dogs and some wildlife, including bats. Rabies is a deadly disease that spreads to humans primarily through bites or scratches from an infected animal. While travelling, take precautions , including keeping your distance from animals (including free-roaming dogs), and closely supervising children.

If you are bitten or scratched by an animal while travelling, immediately wash the wound with soap and clean water and see a health care professional. Rabies treatment is often available in this destination. 

Before travel, discuss rabies vaccination with a health care professional. It may be recommended for travellers who are at high risk of exposure (e.g., occupational risk such as veterinarians and wildlife workers, children, adventure travellers and spelunkers, and others in close contact with animals). 

Coronavirus disease (COVID-19) is an infectious viral disease. It can spread from person to person by direct contact and through droplets in the air.

It is recommended that all eligible travellers complete a COVID-19 vaccine series along with any additional recommended doses in Canada before travelling. Evidence shows that vaccines are very effective at preventing severe illness, hospitalization and death from COVID-19. While vaccination provides better protection against serious illness, you may still be at risk of infection from the virus that causes COVID-19. Anyone who has not completed a vaccine series is at increased risk of being infected with the virus that causes COVID-19 and is at greater risk for severe disease when travelling internationally.

Before travelling, verify your destination’s COVID-19 vaccination entry/exit requirements. Regardless of where you are going, talk to a health care professional before travelling to make sure you are adequately protected against COVID-19.

Safe food and water precautions

Many illnesses can be caused by eating food or drinking beverages contaminated by bacteria, parasites, toxins, or viruses, or by swimming or bathing in contaminated water.

• Learn more about food and water precautions to take to avoid getting sick by visiting our eat and drink safely abroad page. Remember: Boil it, cook it, peel it, or leave it!
• Avoid getting water into your eyes, mouth or nose when swimming or participating in activities in freshwater (streams, canals, lakes), particularly after flooding or heavy rain. Water may look clean but could still be polluted or contaminated.
• Avoid inhaling or swallowing water while bathing, showering, or swimming in pools or hot tubs. 

Travellers' diarrhea is the most common illness affecting travellers. It is spread from eating or drinking contaminated food or water.

Risk of developing travellers' diarrhea increases when travelling in regions with poor standards of hygiene and sanitation. Practise safe food and water precautions.

The most important treatment for travellers' diarrhea is rehydration (drinking lots of fluids). Carry oral rehydration salts when travelling.

Typhoid   is a bacterial infection spread by contaminated food or water. Risk is higher among children, travellers going to rural areas, travellers visiting friends and relatives or those travelling for a long period of time.

Travellers visiting regions with a risk of typhoid, especially those exposed to places with poor sanitation, should speak to a health care professional about vaccination.  

Insect bite prevention

Many diseases are spread by the bites of infected insects such as mosquitoes, ticks, fleas or flies. When travelling to areas where infected insects may be present:

• Use insect repellent (bug spray) on exposed skin
• Cover up with light-coloured, loose clothes made of tightly woven materials such as nylon or polyester
• Minimize exposure to insects
• Use mosquito netting when sleeping outdoors or in buildings that are not fully enclosed

To learn more about how you can reduce your risk of infection and disease caused by bites, both at home and abroad, visit our insect bite prevention page.

Find out what types of insects are present where you’re travelling, when they’re most active, and the symptoms of the diseases they spread.

There is a risk of chikungunya in this country.  The risk may vary between regions of a country.  Chikungunya is a virus spread through the bite of an infected mosquito. Chikungunya can cause a viral disease that typically causes fever and pain in the joints. In some cases, the joint pain can be severe and last for months or years.

Protect yourself from mosquito bites at all times. There is no vaccine available for chikungunya.

• In this country,   dengue  is a risk to travellers. It is a viral disease spread to humans by mosquito bites.
• Dengue can cause flu-like symptoms. In some cases, it can lead to severe dengue, which can be fatal.
• The level of risk of dengue changes seasonally, and varies from year to year. The level of risk also varies between regions in a country and can depend on the elevation in the region.
• Mosquitoes carrying dengue typically bite during the daytime, particularly around sunrise and sunset.
• Protect yourself from mosquito bites . There is no vaccine or medication that protects against dengue.

Animal precautions

Some infections, such as rabies and influenza, can be shared between humans and animals. Certain types of activities may increase your chance of contact with animals, such as travelling in rural or forested areas, camping, hiking, and visiting wet markets (places where live animals are slaughtered and sold) or caves.

Travellers are cautioned to avoid contact with animals, including dogs, livestock (pigs, cows), monkeys, snakes, rodents, birds, and bats, and to avoid eating undercooked wild game.

Closely supervise children, as they are more likely to come in contact with animals.

Human cases of avian influenza have been reported in this destination. Avian influenza   is a viral infection that can spread quickly and easily among birds and in rare cases it can infect mammals, including people. The risk is low for most travellers.

Avoid contact with birds, including wild, farm, and backyard birds (alive or dead) and surfaces that may have bird droppings on them. Ensure all poultry dishes, including eggs and wild game, are properly cooked.

Travellers with a higher risk of exposure include those: 

• visiting live bird/animal markets or poultry farms
• working with poultry (such as chickens, turkeys, domestic ducks)
• hunting, de-feathering, field dressing and butchering wild birds and wild mammals
• working with wild birds for activities such as research, conservation, or rehabilitation
• working with wild mammals, especially those that eat wild birds (e.g., foxes)

All eligible people are encouraged to get the seasonal influenza shot, which will protect them against human influenza viruses. While the seasonal influenza shot does not prevent infection with avian influenza, it can reduce the chance of getting sick with human and avian influenza viruses at the same time.

Person-to-person infections

Stay home if you’re sick and practise proper cough and sneeze etiquette , which includes coughing or sneezing into a tissue or the bend of your arm, not your hand. Reduce your risk of colds, the flu and other illnesses by:

•   washing your hands often
• avoiding or limiting the amount of time spent in closed spaces, crowded places, or at large-scale events (concerts, sporting events, rallies)
• avoiding close physical contact with people who may be showing symptoms of illness 

Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) , HIV , and mpox are spread through blood and bodily fluids; use condoms, practise safe sex, and limit your number of sexual partners. Check with your local public health authority pre-travel to determine your eligibility for mpox vaccine.  

Tuberculosis is an infection caused by bacteria and usually affects the lungs.

For most travellers the risk of tuberculosis is low.

Travellers who may be at high risk while travelling in regions with risk of tuberculosis should discuss pre- and post-travel options with a health care professional.

High-risk travellers include those visiting or working in prisons, refugee camps, homeless shelters, or hospitals, or travellers visiting friends and relatives.

Medical services and facilities

Good health care is limited. The quality of care varies greatly throughout the country.

Both medical facilities and supplies are limited outside of Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City.

Private clinics and hospitals are usually better equipped. Services can be expensive, but they usually have qualified medical staff who speak English or French well.  Emergency and ambulance services response times may be slow du to traffic congestion. In case of emergency, you may consider taking a taxi or private vehicle to go to the hospital rather than wait for an ambulance.

Medical evacuation is very expensive. You may need it to neighbouring countries in case of serious illness or injury.

Make sure you get travel insurance that includes coverage for medical evacuation and hospital stays.

Travel health and safety

If you take prescription medication, you’re responsible for determining their legality in Vietnam.

• Bring sufficient quantities of your medication with you
• Always keep your medication in the original container
• Pack your medication in your carry-on luggage
• Carry a copy of your prescriptions

You must abide by local laws.

Learn about what you should do and how we can help if you are arrested or detained abroad .

No transfer of offenders treaty exists between Canada and Vietnam. If you’re convicted of a serious crime, you must serve your jail sentence in Vietnam. You may also have to remain in Vietnam for a parole period after your release.

Penalties for possession, use, production or trafficking of drugs, including cannabis, are severe. Convicted offenders can expect heavy fines, jail sentences or the death penalty.

Drugs, alcohol and travel

Identification

Local authorities may request to see your ID at any time.

• Carry valid identification or a photocopy of it at all times
• Keep a photocopy of your passport in a safe place in case it’s lost or seized
• Keep a digital copy of your ID and travel documents

Gambling outside of licensed casinos is illegal in Vietnam.

You must hold of a foreign passport to gamble in these licensed establishments.

Political activities

There are severe restrictions on political activities, including:

• participating in public protests
• publishing messages critical of the government on social media

If you engage in political activities you may face detention, deportation and travel ban to Vietnam in the future.

Photography

Photography of sensitive installations is prohibited. This includes:

• military sites
• border crossings

These sensitive areas are not always identified.

• Refrain from photographing military installations or personnel even if no sign is posted
• Comply with all requests from local authorities

Religious activities

There are restrictions on certain religious activities, such as preaching, distributing literature and associating with unapproved religious groups.

Sexual and intimate activities

As a foreigner, you are not allowed to invite Vietnamese nationals of the opposite sex into your hotel room to stay overnight unless you are married.

You are allowed to stay with a Vietnamese family only if you have obtained permission from local authorities.

Importation, possession and distribution of pornographic material is illegal.

Exportation of antiques

Vietnamese law restricts the export of antiques, but these laws are vague and unevenly enforced. If you purchase items that may be considered as antiques:

• keep receipts and all paperwork provided by the seller
• ensure you have the proper exportation permits from the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism and the Vietnam General Department of Customs

If you can't present the required paperwork, the items may be confiscated.

Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism of Vietnam  (in Vietnamese)

Dress and behaviour

The Vietnamese society is conservative.

When visiting religious and culturally places to avoid offending local sensitivities:

• dress conservatively
• behave discreetly
• respect religious and social traditions
• seek permission from locals before photographing them

Tet celebrations

The lunar new year is celebrated between the end of January and the end of February. Theses celebrations usually last several days and can have an impact on the availability and provision of essential services such as:

• banking services
• public services including healthcare
• food distribution

Plan your trip accordingly if you travel to Vietnam during this period.

Dual citizenship

Dual citizenship is not legally recognized in Vietnam.

If local authorities consider you a citizen of Vietnam, they may refuse to grant you access to Canadian consular services. This will prevent us from providing you with those services.

Travellers with dual citizenship

Mandatory military service

Canadians with Vietnamese citizenship may be subject to mandatory military service and other national obligations.

Confirm this requirement before travelling to Vietnam.

International Child Abduction

The Hague Convention on the Civil Aspects of International Child Abduction is an international treaty. It can help parents with the return of children who have been removed to or retained in certain countries in violation of custody rights. It does not apply between Canada and Vietnam.

If your child was wrongfully taken to, or is being held in Vietnam by an abducting parent:

• act as quickly as you can
• consult a lawyer in Canada and in Vietnam to explore all the legal options for the return of your child
• report the situation to the nearest Canadian government office abroad or to the Vulnerable Children's Consular Unit at Global Affairs Canada by calling the Emergency Watch and Response Centre

If your child was removed from a country other than Canada, consult a lawyer to determine if The Hague Convention applies.

Be aware that Canadian consular officials cannot interfere in private legal matters or in another country's judicial affairs.

• International Child Abductions: A guide for affected parents
• Canadian embassies and consulates by destination
• Request emergency assistance

Doing business in Vietnam

Disputes related to business agreements or arrangements are costly and take time to resolve. You may be subject to a travel ban restricting you from leaving the country until matters are resolved.

If you plan on doing business in Vietnam:

• seek legal advice in Canada and in Vietnam before making commitments
• choose your own lawyer
• ensure that all documents are translated so that conditions, terms and limitations are well understood

There are many teaching opportunities in Vietnam. However, make sure you are well informed before signing a contract.

• Consult a local lawyer or professional
• Ensure that the contract specifies the maximum number of classroom hours per day and per week, maximum workdays per week, and vacation periods
• Confirm the living arrangements if any are included
• Ensure that you possess the right visa for the activities you will perform
• Ensure you understand any liabilities linked to early termination of a contract

You must hold a valid Vietnamese driver's licence to drive a vehicle with an engine of 50CC or more. This includes most motorcycles. Motorcycle drivers and passengers must wear a helmet.

The country has a zero-tolerance policy for drinking and driving or cycling. Penalties for drinking and driving or cycling include:

• licence suspension
• heavy fines

If you are involved in a traffic accident as a driver, you may:

• face criminal charges as a driver
• have to pay compensation to the victims
• face a travel ban preventing you from leaving the country until compensation is paid

There are restrictions on vehicles crossing from and into neighbouring countries.

Contact the Department of Transport in Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh City for information on for licences or restrictions.

Department of Transport in Ho Chi Minh City (in Vietnamese)

The currency of Vietnam is the Vietnamese dong (VND).

Cash declarations

Upon arrival, you must declare if you have:

• more than 15 million Vietnamese dong, more than US$5,000, or the equivalent in any other currency, in cash
• more than 300 grams of gold, including jewellery, gold bar and raw gold

Upon departure, you must:

• declare if you have more than 15 million Vietnamese dong, more than US$5,000, or the equivalent in any other currency, in cash
• present a written approval to carry foreign currency or Vietnamese dong in cash abroad, issued by an authorized Vietnamese credit institution in accordance with the laws on foreign exchange control or the State Bank of Vietnam

Rainy season

The rainy season extends:

• from June to September in the north and south
• from October to December in central Vietnam

Seasonal flooding occurs in October and November in central Vietnam. It’s also common:

• in and around Hanoi, particularly along the Red River
• in the Mekong River Delta regions in the south

Seasonal flooding can hamper overland travel and reduce the provision of essential services. Roads may become impassable due to mudslides and landslides. Bridges, buildings, and infrastructure may be damaged.

• Remain vigilant, especially in areas around major rivers
• Stay away from flooded areas
• Monitor weather reports
• Monitor local media for the latest updates, including those on road conditions
• Follow the instructions of local authorities, including evacuation orders
• Mekong Flood and Drought Forecasting  - Mekong River Commission
• Forecasting  - National Center for Hydro-Meteorological Forecasting

Typhoons usually occur from June and December. During this period, even small tropical storms can quickly develop into major typhoons.

These severe storms can put you at risk and hamper the provision of essential services.

If you decide to travel to Vietnam during this period:

• know that you may expose yourself to serious safety risks
• be prepared to change your travel plans on short notice, including cutting short or cancelling your trip
• stay informed of the latest regional weather forecasts
• carry emergency contact information for your airline or tour operator
• follow the advice and instructions of local authorities
• Tornadoes, cyclones, hurricanes, typhoons and monsoons
• Large-scale emergencies abroad

Humidity and heat may be severe, particularly during the rainy season.

Know the symptoms of dehydration and heatstroke, which can both be fatal.

Forest fires may occur.

The air quality in areas near active fires may deteriorate due to heavy smoke.

In case of a major fire:

• stay away from affected areas, particularly if you suffer from respiratory ailments
• follow the instructions of local emergency services personnel
• monitor local media to stay informed on the evolving situation

Air pollution

Smog and other types of air pollution can be hazardous in urban areas. Air quality can also be affected in rural areas due to agricultural burning.

Air pollution levels can change quickly.

During periods of high pollution:

• limit your outdoor activities, especially if you suffer from respiratory ailments or have pre-existing medical conditions
• monitor local media
• follow the instructions of local authorities
• Air pollution in Hanoi  - World Air Quality Index
• Air pollution in Ho Chi Minh City  - World Air Quality Index

Local services

In case of emergency, dial:

• police: 113
• medical assistance: 115
• firefighters: 114

Consular assistance

For emergency consular assistance, call the Embassy of Canada to Vietnam, in Hanoi, or the Consulate General of Canada to Vietnam, in Ho Chi Minh City, and follow the instructions. At any time, you may also contact the Emergency Watch and Response Centre in Ottawa.

The decision to travel is your choice and you are responsible for your personal safety abroad. We take the safety and security of Canadians abroad very seriously and provide credible and timely information in our Travel Advice to enable you to make well-informed decisions regarding your travel abroad.

The content on this page is provided for information only. While we make every effort to give you correct information, it is provided on an "as is" basis without warranty of any kind, expressed or implied. The Government of Canada does not assume responsibility and will not be liable for any damages in connection to the information provided.

If you need consular assistance while abroad, we will make every effort to help you. However, there may be constraints that will limit the ability of the Government of Canada to provide services.

Learn more about consular services .

Risk Levels

  take normal security precautions.

Take similar precautions to those you would take in Canada.

  Exercise a high degree of caution

There are certain safety and security concerns or the situation could change quickly. Be very cautious at all times, monitor local media and follow the instructions of local authorities.

IMPORTANT: The two levels below are official Government of Canada Travel Advisories and are issued when the safety and security of Canadians travelling or living in the country or region may be at risk.

  Avoid non-essential travel

Your safety and security could be at risk. You should think about your need to travel to this country, territory or region based on family or business requirements, knowledge of or familiarity with the region, and other factors. If you are already there, think about whether you really need to be there. If you do not need to be there, you should think about leaving.

  Avoid all travel

You should not travel to this country, territory or region. Your personal safety and security are at great risk. If you are already there, you should think about leaving if it is safe to do so.

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Vietnam reopens to foreign tourists after two years – but rules remain unclear

Government has yet to clarify what is required of travellers, article bookmarked.

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Vietnam finally reopens its borders to international tourists today after two years of travel bans – but the rules for travellers remain obscure.

The south Asian country announced in mid-February that borders would open to fully vaccinated arrivals from 15 March, but the government has yet to issue specific guidance on testing and isolation for foreigners.

When officials announced the reopening date on 17 February, they said tourists would have to show proof of being double jabbed or having recovered from coronavirus, plus present a negative Covid test result and quarantine for 24 hours upon entering Vietnam.

Meanwhile, on 1 March, the health ministry proposed subjecting international travellers to a three-day quarantine on arrival – at odds with the tourism ministry’s desire to welcome vaccinated tourists, quarantine-free.

It’s unclear which plan won out; requirements have yet to be updated. On 14 March, the day before the slated lifting of travel bans, Deputy premier Vu Duc Dam told the health ministry to “promptly revise [the] regulations and requirements” for foreign visitors and send them to the tourism ministry by the end of the day.

The UK’s Foreign Office (FCDO) has not updated its advice on entry requirements for Vietnam.

The last update was in November 2021, when the country started to let in some vaccinated tourists who entered Vietnam on organised group trips.

“Those wishing to enter for tourism may only do so by joining one of the tour groups operating tours to destinations approved by the Ministry of Culture, Sports & Tourism,” reads the FCDO advice.

“When arriving in Vietnam you must have completed an online passenger entry declaration form (available with an English option). You will need to take a screenshot or print out the QR Code as you’ll need this on entry into Vietnam and may require it at transit points.

“You will also need to provide evidence of a negative Covid-19 PCR test taken up to 72 hours before arrival. Some airlines are also instructing passengers to have a rapid (eg lateral flow) test within 24 hours of their flight.”

It goes on: “When entering Vietnam you must quarantine in either a designated hotel or a preapproved residence for three days. You will need to take a PCR test on day three and self-monitor up to day 14. You will be responsible for paying any hotel charges and for coronavirus testing costs.”

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Vietnam travel requirements 2024: What travelers need to know

We aim to keep this post updated about Vietnam travel in 2024 with official Vietnam travel restrictions, requirements, and health and safety guidance. Our goal is to help you make informed decisions so you can travel confidently, safely, and responsibly in this new post-pandemic world of ours.

Vietnam is a destination close to our hearts. We returned to visit Vietnam in 2023 and 2024.

As restrictions can vary based on the traveler’s citizenship, we will focus primarily on rules affecting U.S. citizens.

* Get our free Post-Pandemic Travel Checklist *  

April 2024 – “During our 3-month stay in Central Vietnam, we took a short trip out of the country. We brought our printed e-visa , which was examined by the agent that checked us into our flight from Hong Kong back to Vietnam and again at immigration in Da Nang. Proof of onward travel was not requested this time. The Hanoi airport international check in was as crowded as ever in April. Budget airlines like VietJet use buses instead of jetways for boarding and deplaning, so it’s impossible to avoid close contact with crowds. I’d say less than 1/4 of travelers are still wearing masks. Masks are more commonly worn outside on motorbikes in Vietnam.”

January 2024 – “We flew back to Hanoi, this time with a 3-month evisa we applied for online well in advance. Besides valid passports, we were asked for proof of onward travel from Vietnam while checking into our flight in the US. We were asked to name our travel insurance provider on the visa application and brought documentation of the policy from Safety Wing , however, we weren’t asked to show it at any point. We were not asked any questions at immigration, only provided our passport and black/white print out of the visa.”

At the end of the post, we share more on-the-ground perspectives from local residents and travelers to Vietnam so you can get a true sense of what things are like.

Table of Contents

Is Vietnam open for travel? Can I travel to Vietnam right now?

Vietnam is now open to foreign travelers. Vietnam officially reopened its borders to all international visitors on March 2022, after two years of being closed.

Travelers can apply for an e-visa online. See our Vietnam evisa tips here.

Foreign travelers are not required to take a pre-departure Covid-19 test or show proof of vaccination prior to arrival. The health declaration form requirement has been removed. 

Travel insurance that covers Covid-19 treatment with a minimum coverage of $10,000 has been required. There is a declaration that you’ll have insurance on the evisa application. It’s unclear if this is still being enforced anywhere. (We use Safety Wing for travel insurance in Vietnam.)

What Vietnam tourist visas are available right now?

E -visas are available to Americans, Canadians, and all other nationalities.

Effective August 2023, e-visa validity has been extended to 90 days. You can choose between single entry or multiple entries.

Travelers can apply for an e-visa at the e-visa web portal of the Vietnam Immigration Department.

Be sure to review our Vietnam evisa tips here , as there are some quirks and important things to know to avoid having to reapply.

In our experience, processing the evisa can take at least 3 days. We also had to redo one application because one of our credit cards wouldn’t allow the online charge. It’s best to apply for Vietnam e-visas several weeks in advance, just in case.

What about Vietnam Visas On Arrival?

We’re not clear on the availability of Visas On Arrival – technically it’s a Landing Approval Letter, which we used before the pandemic. We saw no desk for VOAs in the immigration hall at Ho Chi Minh City airport when we arrived at the end of 2022. In early 2024, there was a “Visa Application” desk in Hanoi, but it didn’t seem to be active.

In cases where you’re ineligible or have trouble with the e-visa process, you may be able to apply for a Landing Approval Letter through an agent in Vietnam, print out the letter, and proceed to the visa counter at the airport to receive your actual visa sticker, which is another $25 USD.

Can Vietnam e-Visas be extended?

E-visas cannot be extended , meaning visitors have to leave or do a border run and reapply. There is no official limit that we can find as to how many times tourists will be approved for e-visas back to back.

Vietnamese embassies and consulates are telling callers that nothing can be done about visas there, as all applications are currently online.

Quarantine rules in Vietnam: What happens if I get Covid?

Travelers entering Vietnam are not required to quarantine upon arrival.

Foreign tourists experiencing COVID-19 symptoms or those concerned they have been exposed to COVID-19 while in Vietnam can call Vietnam’s health hotline at 19009095 (Press 1 for English).

Foreign tourists who  test positive for Covid while in Vietnam may need to isolate for treatment. Thankfully, isolation no longer needs to take place in government facilities.

Medical treatment should be covered by the visitor’s travel insurance. Some of our acquaintances tried getting Paxlovid via a local doctor while in Vietnam but were not successful.

How has the Coronavirus impacted Vietnam?

Apart from suspending foreign travel, the impact of Covid in Vietnam was relatively minimal in the first year. The country’s quick reaction became one of the most effective in the world at first. Lock downs were for a few short weeks and then daily life resumed as usual for several months until new cases popped up.

Vietnam had 99 days without any cases of community transmission and no deaths in Spring 2020. However, in late summer 2021, the infection rate in Vietnam skyrocketed as the Delta variant spread and vaccination rates were low. In December 2021, Vietnam detected the first case of the Omicron variant in Hanoi.

Strict lock down zones were implemented throughout 2021. Vietnam’s tourism and manufacturing sectors have been especially hit hard.

In March 2021, vaccinations began but very slowly. Now, over three quarters of the population are fully vaccinated.

In January 2022, Vietnam reopened international flights from select locations. A limited number of tourists were accepted through package tours and a trial vaccine passport program until full reopening in late Spring 2022.

International tourism recovery was slow in 2022, though domestic tourism was strengthened. Vietnam’s tourism in 2023 was still lower than pre-pandemic levels.

For the current situation in Vietnam, including: total COVID-19 positive cases; total cases in Vietnam; and COVID-19 testing in Vietnam, please see the Vietnam Ministry of Health site .

Can I travel to Vietnam this Summer 2024?

Travel to Vietnam this Summer is open . Read on for details and check back for updates.

What is it like to fly to Vietnam HAN Hanoi, DAD Da Nang, or SGN Ho Chi Minh City International Airport right now?

Vietnam airports seemed very busy to us, and crowds are difficult to avoid. Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City airports can get exceptionally crowded. Masks are no longer required.

Do I have to quarantine when traveling to Vietnam? No. See details above.

Does Vietnam check COVID-19 symptoms of incoming travelers? No.

Does Vietnam require a proof of negative Covid 19 test result for travelers? No. As of April 2022, a negative test is no longer required for entry into Vietnam. 

Does Vietnam require a proof of Coronavirus vaccine for travelers? No. Proof of vaccination is currently not required to enter Vietnam. 

Do I still need to provide a negative Covid test or quarantine if I have been vaccinated? At this time, there is no special allowance for vaccinated travelers in Vietnam. However, a Covid test and quarantine is no longer required to enter Vietnam.

Is a booster shot required for travel to Vietnam? At this time, booster shots are not required in Vietnam. There is currently no expiration period set for the validity of vaccinations.

What healthcare options are available to travelers in Vietnam who get the virus? Hospitals and clinics are open in Vietnam. Foreigners must pay for any medical treatment out of pocket.  

Government quarantine locations may only have rudimentary facilities.

Persons experiencing symptoms of the COVID-19 virus should call the health hotline at 19009095 (Press 1 for English). Availability of treatments may differ from your home country.

If a foreign visitor is required to be tested for Coronavirus, they can get tested at designated laboratories in Vietnam. The test may be free if they test negative. If the test is positive, the visitor will be required to pay for it.

For travel insurance that covers Covid, check out Nomad Insurance by Safety Wing >

What service businesses and restaurants are open in Vietnam? Businesses and activities have fully reopened. Select cities and provinces have imposed temporary lock downs or closed certain non-essential businesses when outbreaks of the virus are detected in the area. 

Are face masks required in Vietnam? Vietnam has relaxed mask rules in pubic places. You’ll still see many people wearing face masks, especially while driving, as this was common practice even before the pandemic.

Are buses and trains running in Vietnam? Domestic airline and railway transportation are running on normal schedules. More daily flights within Vietnam are now available. Public and passenger transportation has resumed.

Will Vietnam impose new Covid restrictions? What’s next is difficult to predict. Vietnam no longer follows a “zero Covid” policy so shut downs are less likely than they were before vaccines were available. Historically, most countries impose COVID-19 restrictions when strains on the health care system become unsustainable.

What should you pack for safely traveling in Vietnam?

😷 Face Masks – Face coverings are required in some public places and commonly used throughout Vietnam. Find N95 masks at Bona Fide > or designer options at Vida >

🧴 Hand sanitizer   Shop hand sanitizer >

💊 Medicine – Bring enough prescription and over-the-counter medication for your entire trip to avoid trips to the clinic.

💳 Vaccine Card Holder – Protect that paper CDC card when traveling abroad (if your country doesn’t offer a digital version). Get a simple plastic protector > or Vegan leather clippable > or Leather passport + card combo holder >

👃 Covid self-test – The most studied rapid antigen self-test with FDA emergency authorization.  NOT valid to enter countries. Use for your own peace of mind. Order from CVS > or Walmart >

💧 Sealed water bottle – Make sure your reusable water bottle has a lid that’s not exposed to the air. We use one of each of the following: Shop insulated water bottles with protective lid > Shop water bottles with purification filter and protective lid >

✈️ Travel insurance that covers Covid – We’ve started using Nomad Insurance by Safety Wing for affordable evacuation, international medical, and trip coverage.

What do Vietnamese locals and recent travelers say about visiting Vietnam now?

What is it like to visit Vietnam right now? It’s our goal to provide regular updates here from real people on the ground, to help potential visitors know what to expect. The following are subjective opinions only. Official travel guidance can be found above.

October 2023 – Peta and Jonas of Exit45 Travels , Australian travelers: “We are travelling around the north of Vietnam for 1 month from mid-September to mid-October 2023. We are nearing the end of the wet season here in the north of Vietnam which is traditionally low season. There are some tourists travelling around but in general, it is fairly quiet.

There are no travel restrictions in place here in Vietnam and there is no shortage of restaurant, accommodation and medical care facilities available. As the seasons are changing here at the moment, many locals and travellers are sick with head colds. This has been most obvious in restaurants where the cooks and waiters have been coughing and sneezing freely without covering their mouths or wearing face masks. It feels as though covid never really happened, and no lessons have been learnt about general hygiene. This may have been the case pre-covid too, and maybe we just didn’t notice then, but we have certainly had a heightened awareness of it this time.

The new e-Visa application process can be quite a challenge and whilst they say to allow 3 to 5 business days for approval, we would highly recommend applying approximately 1 month before you plan on arriving in Vietnam. If you then have any problems with the application, you will have time to reapply.

The biggest problem people are encountering is once approved, the information on your approval is incorrect i.e. middle name is missing, D.O.B. has the day / month in the wrong format, incorrect entry port etc.”

September 2023 – Ros & Alan Cuthbertson of StepIntoVietnam , Australian Digital Nomads:  “We visited Vietnam frequently prior to Covid and have returned three times since the country reopened post Covid.

Everything is back to normal, masks are not required but you will find many locals still wearing them. Very few tourists can be seen wearing masks. There is no Covid or health testing required for travel within the country.

Tourists are beginning to flock to Vietnam and are rediscovering the wonders of this fascinating country. Popular destinations such as Hanoi, Ha Long Bay and Hoi An and Ho Chi Minh City are busy with tourists and prebooking travel and tours is advised. For example we tried to book a two berth train cabin from Hanoi to Hue but they had been booked out months in advance and we had to get a four berth cabin instead.”

March 2023 – Michelle, Intentional Travelers, U.S. nomad: “We thoroughly enjoyed returning to visit Vietnam and would have stayed longer if we could. Our Vietnamese friends tell us that Covid is no longer a major concern in Vietnam. Tourists have few restrictions to worry about.

There are still fewer tourists than pre-pandemic times, so I think now is a great time to visit. It still gets crowded in Hoi An Ancient Town at night, and the Hanoi airport departures area seemed exceptionally crowded.”

February 28, 2023 – Michelle, Intentional Travelers, U.S. nomad: “We arrived back in Vietnam, flying from Thailand to DAD, for our second stay on the 30-day tourist visa. The evisa application took 3-4 days this time and we made sure to print it out. Air Asia checked the evisa at check in, as did the agent at immigration when we arrived.

Filling out an immigration form when arriving in Vietnam is no longer required unless you have something to declare (bring in significant money or goods into the country). Wait time for immigration was no longer than the wait for our bags to show up at luggage claim, and customs just asked us to scan our two carry on bags.

As our flight came in, AirAsia announced that there was a mask requirement for arriving in Vietnam. However, we did not see masks enforced and even a few of the airport employees weren’t wearing masks.” 

January 27, 2023 – Michelle, Intentional Travelers, U.S. nomad: “Unlike our flight into Vietnam, masks were not required on our outgoing flight but a majority of passengers and all the crew were wearing face coverings. Da Nang airport is spacious and only crowded at certain times when many flights are scheduled.”

January 2, 2023 – Michelle, Intentional Travelers, U.S. nomad:  “The Ho Chi Minh City airport was very busy and had quite a few delayed domestic flights early in the year. More than half of passengers were wearing masks though they’re not required.”

December 2022 – Michelle, Intentional Travelers, U.S. nomad: “We flew to Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam from the US via Singapore. We applied for the 30-day evisa about one week before traveling. There was an issue with Chase not allowing the credit card charge online, so we had to redo one of our applications. It was processed in 2-3 days and I printed the one-page documents for our trip. We also printed our Safety Wing travel insurance coverage letter but didn’t end up needing to show it.

Upon check-in with Singapore Airlines in Seattle, we were only asked for our passports and visa paperwork. Arriving in Vietnam, there was a 40+ minute wait for immigration. We had to show our passport, boarding pass, and evisa printout. We were never asked for onward flight booking or Covid documents.

Masks were required on our flight into Vietnam. Many locals wore masks before the pandemic (partly due to air pollution), so mask-wearing out in public is still very common but by no means universal in Vietnam.”

July 1 2022 – M.T. Expat in Ho Chi Minh City: “Covid is very much an afterthought for most people now – official national case numbers have been under 1,000 per day for a while (with basically no testing going on), and mask use is far from universal anymore. I’ve even seen people in airports and on planes without a mask… But health officials are starting to sound some (mild) alarm bells [regarding the Omicron BA.5 variant]. Given how normal daily life has become (and the incredible surge in domestic travel, which is seeing holiday-level airport traffic daily), conditions are ripe for Covid to spread rapidly.”

May 2022 – Karla of Colorful Journeys , expat in Vietnam: “Every day, an increasing number of tourists travel within Vietnam. Many local tour operators have reopened for business and are now easily bookable. Transportation options are widely available and simple to book. 

Despite the fact that there are no longer any travel restrictions in Vietnam, the majority of people still wear masks. This is particularly true in larger cities such as Ho Chi Minh City and Hanoi. There is also a lot of local testing accessible in major cities. Because many hotels and attractions are permanently closed, it’s a good practice to call the business beforehand.”

March 25, 2022 – Phu, Vietnamese tour guide:  “Vietnam now is reopening for tourists but the tourists come to Vietnam very little at the moment. Not so many, still quiet here. In Hoi An all the shops and restaurants are open, and more domestic tourists come to Hoi An. The local people we are really happy welcome the tourists. And me I open my motorbike tours again, but in 1 month I have only one tour booking. I will be offering a discount price to welcome tourists booking this is the year.”

We highly recommend a motorbike day tour or overnight tour with our friend, Phu! Contact him at Hoianmotorbiketouradventures@ gmail.com .

January 2022 – Isabelle of Move to Vietnam , Vietnamese resident: “At the moment, domestic travel is possible as long as you are fully vaccinated. Tourists are only allowed in Vietnam under specific requirements. Unless you want to spend $1500 and up for 7-14 days of holiday, it’s better to wait for a few more months.

June 2022 is the government’s target to reopen. However, these policies change very often.

Vietnam has a pretty good system when it comes to contact tracing. Most places of business require everyone to check-in using a QR code or sign up sheet. If that place detects a positive case, people who were there at the same time will be contacted to be tested and self-isolated for a number of days. There’s very little anti-vaccination sentiment here. 

Tourists attractions are normally open. If you need to be hospitalised, you will have an option to go to a private hospital or a more affordable local hospital (you might have to bring a local or a translator).”

December 2021 – Huong Nguyen (Hanna), Vietnamese nomad CoXplore :  “After the lifting of strict COVID-19 restrictions, the government is still strict with the 5K rule: ‘Khau trang’ (facemask), ‘Khu khuan’ (disinfection), ‘Khoang cach’ (distance), ‘Khong tu tap’ (no gathering), and ‘Khai bao y te’ (health declaration) to help citizens get used to living safely with the COVID-19 pandemic in ‘new normal’ state; and citizens are generally active to follow. 

Recovering from COVID-19, Vietnam is now encouraging domestic travelling within the country, and is prepared to welcome international visitors who have met all the vaccination requirements. Residents must receive at least a dose of COVID-19 vaccine and obtain a QR code through mandated health apps for movement within the city.”

September 2021 – Phu, Central Vietnam Resident: “Vietnam now is lock down. Covid delta so fast in Vietnam now. Kill 14000 people already. My area we are staying home, still safe at the moment.”

January 2021 – Jackie & Justin, Life Of Doing , Expats in Ho Chi Minh City:  “Vietnam does not currently allow tourists to enter the country. Tourist cities rely on locals and long term residents visiting.  Currently, there aren’t any restrictions for traveling within the country for locals and long term residents. Everyone traveling must wear masks at public places and may have a temperature check before entering a building or vehicle. Many of the tourist cities have been impacted by fewer tourists and have closed restaurants and tourist attractions. Luckily, Vietnam’s government is proactive when it comes to finding the source of confirmed cases that have tested positive for the virus and trace the contacts of confirmed cases immediately.” 

Adela, Spanish/Digital Nomad. July 2020 ~ “The only tourists in Vietnam at the moment are either those who were already in the country or Vietnamese nationals doing internal tourism. At the moment, the relationship of the locals with foreigners is back to normal, however during the months of March and April there was a sudden “fear” of foreigners, especially Westerners, and in some places (restaurants, hotels, bars, etc) we were denied entrance. Although at the moment everyone is as friendly and welcoming as it can be, the kids that live in our street still laugh and cover their faces when they see us. Many businesses have chosen to close due to the lack of tourists, but most touristic attractions are open and …less crowded than they will ever be!”

Tasha , American Digital Nomad. July 2020 ~ “Despite having a third the population of the U.S. and sharing a border with China, thanks to common sense, early action, and preventative measures, Vietnam has vanquished coronavirus. Cases peaked at less than 400, and now the virus is completely contained — there is no community spread. Borders remain closed to keep the virus out. Vietnam has done an excellent job with testing and contact tracing. The virus is completely gone from the general population, so we are living life as normal, going to restaurants and cafes.”

Even if you can’t go to Vietnam right now, you can still get started planning your Vietnam trip for the future.

Check out our other Vietnam travel resources: – Suggested Vietnam Itineraries: 10+ Days in Vietnam – A budget guide to Hoi An Vietnam – A budget guide to Ninh Binh – A budget guide to Hue – A budget guide to Hanoi – A budget guide to Mai Chau Vietnam – Central Vietnam Destinations and Itinerary

* Get our free Vietnam Travel Destinations e-guide *

If you have questions or updates about travel to Vietnam during the Coronavirus crisis or post-pandemic, please let us know in the comments below.

~ Pin this post for later or share with friends ~

Disclaimer: Please note, travel restrictions change frequently. Readers must take responsibility for verifying information through official sources like the State Department and CDC, in respect to their specific situations. No responsibility can be accepted by Intentional Travelers for action or inaction as a result of information provided through IntentionalTravelers.com. Any information provided here is issued as general information only.

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Pinpoint Travel Health

Foreign travel advice Vietnam

Table of Contents

Foreign Travel Advice Vietnam

Warnings and Insurance:   This travel advice has been rewritten to make it easier to read and understand.

The Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) provides advice on travel risks to assist British nationals in making informed decisions. Learn more about FCDO travel advice.

ENTER YOUR DESTINATION FOR YOUR CUSTOM TRAVEL BRIEF

Before You Travel: No travel can be guaranteed safe. Read all the advice in this guide, as well as support for British nationals abroad, which includes:

• Advice on preparing for travel abroad and reducing risks
• Information for women, LGBT+, and disabled travelers

Follow and contact FCDO travel on Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram. You can also sign up to receive email notifications when this advice is updated.

Travel Insurance: If you decide to travel to Vietnam, conduct research on your destinations and obtain appropriate travel insurance. Your insurance should cover your itinerary, planned activities, and expenses in case of an emergency.

Before you travel

No travel can be guaranteed safe. Read all the advice in this guide and any specific travel advice that applies to you: 

• women travellers  
• disabled travellers  
• LGBT+ travellers  
• solo and independent travel  
• volunteering and adventure travel

Travel insurance

If you choose to travel, research your destinations and get appropriate travel insurance . Insurance should cover your itinerary, planned activities and expenses in an emergency.

About FCDO travel advice

The Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office ( FCDO ) provides advice about risks of travel to help British nationals make informed decisions. Find out more about FCDO travel advice .

Follow and contact FCDO travel on Twitter , Facebook and Instagram . You can also sign up to get email notifications when this advice is updated.

This information is for people travelling on a full ‘British citizen’ passport from the UK. It is based on the UK government’s understanding of the current rules for the most common types of travel.

The authorities in Vietnam set and enforce entry rules. If you’re not sure how these requirements apply to you, contact the Vietnamese Embassy in the UK .

COVID-19 rules

There are no COVID-19 testing or vaccination requirements for travellers entering Vietnam.

Passport validity requirements

To enter Vietnam, your passport must have:

• an ‘expiry date’ at least 6 months after the date you arrive
• at least 2 blank pages
• no damage – British nationals have been denied entry and exit due to passport damage

Check with your travel provider that your passport and other travel documents meet requirements. Renew your passport if you need to.

You will be denied entry if you do not have a valid travel document or try to use a passport that has been reported lost or stolen.

Make sure you get your passport stamped.

Check the visa expiry date written in your passport is correct before leaving border control. If it is wrong, you could be accused of overstaying.

Visa requirements

You can visit Vietnam without a visa for up to 45 days for tourism or business.

If you want to stay longer than 45 days, you can:

• book with a travel agent in Vietnam and ask them to apply for a visa pre-approval letter – your agent will tell you when to collect your visa from the embassy
• apply for other visa types from the Vietnamese Embassy in the UK
• apply for an e-visa that allows a 90-day stay and multiple entries

E-visas restrict you to the entry and exit points you select when you apply. If you get an e-visa while in Vietnam, you must exit the country and re-enter to start your e-visa.

The British Embassy will not assist with visa extensions.

Work or study

If you want to work or study, check which type of visa or work permit you need with the Vietnam Immigration Department .

Read about visas and work permits if you live in Vietnam .

If you overstay your visa or work illegally, the authorities can prevent you from leaving until you pay a fine. You could be deported and prevented from visiting Vietnam in the future.

Travelling through Vietnam

If you transfer from an international flight to a domestic flight in Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh City, you must go through immigration and enter Vietnam. You must do this even if your final destination is outside Vietnam.

Check with your airline before departing.

Vaccine requirements

For details about medical entry requirements and recommended vaccinations, see TravelHealthPro’s Vietnam guide

Customs rules

There are strict rules about goods you can take into or out of Vietnam . You must declare anything that may be prohibited or subject to tax or duty.

If you’re taking prescription medication into Vietnam, carry it in your hand luggage with a copy of the prescription. If it has a total import value greater than 100 US dollars, you must declare it at customs. For information about restrictions on medication, see Health .

Taking money into or out of Vietnam

If you’re taking cash into or out of Vietnam, you must declare amounts over:

• 15 million Vietnamese dong
• 5,000 US dollars (or the same value in other currencies)

If you’re leaving the country with more than these amounts, declare the money at customs and show either:

• confirmation you’re carrying cash abroad, issued by an authorised credit institution
• written approval to carry cash, issued by the State Bank of Vietnam

There is a high threat of terrorist attack globally affecting UK interests and British nationals, including from groups and individuals who view the UK and British nationals as targets. Stay aware of your surroundings at all times.   

UK Counter Terrorism Policing has information and advice on staying safe abroad and what to do in the event of a terrorist attack. Find out how to reduce your risk from terrorism while abroad . 

Terrorism in Vietnam

Although there is no recent history of terrorism in Vietnam, attacks cannot be ruled out. 

Attacks could be indiscriminate including in places visited by foreign nationals. Stay aware of your surroundings, keep up to date with local media reports and follow the advice of local authorities.

Political situation

Vietnam has a single-party political system, which does not welcome people disagreeing with the government. Some protests in recent years have turned violent or been violently suppressed by the authorities. Avoid all protests.

Protecting yourself and your belongings

Pickpockets and bag-snatchers operate in crowded areas and in places visited by tourists. Take care of your belongings and consider splitting important items between bags.

Do not give your passport to others as a guarantee – for example, to motorcycle rental shops or landlords. They can hold your passport against claimed damage.

There is a risk of petty theft on buses and trains, particularly while asleep on overnight trains.

Drink spiking and sexual assault

British nationals have reported rape and sexual assaults in tourist areas and places where foreigners live. Women have also reported indecent assaults and harassment. These include inappropriate touching and groping, particularly while walking alone.

In Vietnam there is a higher burden of proof for victims than in the UK. Victims must show they did not consent, particularly if they drank alcohol or knew the alleged attacker.

There is a risk of drink spiking – do not leave your drinks unattended or accept drinks from strangers.

Be wary of job offers that appear too good to be true. People have arrived in the Mekong region and have been illegally transported to neighbouring countries on the promise of high-paying jobs, which turn out to be scams.

There have been incidents of:

• passports being confiscated by scammers
• victims being held in poor living conditions
• coercion into undertaking wider online scamming activity

Transfers from airports and stations

Be cautious about offers of free bus transfers to hotels, unless organised in advance. These may be scams.  

Laws and cultural differences

Personal id.

You must always carry photographic ID. The authorities will accept a printed copy of the photo page of your passport and visa.

Illegal drugs penalties

Penalties for possessing, distributing or manufacturing drugs are severe. You can get the death sentence if you’re found with even small amounts.

Illegal drugs are often tampered with or spiked and can be much stronger than in Europe. British nationals in Vietnam have suffered severe psychiatric problems because of drug use.

LGBT+ travellers

Vietnam is a generally tolerant and progressive place for LGBT+ travellers. There are no criminal penalties for same-sex sexual activity or changing gender. Same-sex marriage is not recognised in law.

Read more  advice for LGBT+ travellers .

Respect local customs and dress in appropriate clothing when entering religious or cultural sites. This usually means covering your shoulders and knees. You’ll often see signs outside religious or cultural sites that tell you the dress code.

Money change counters

Only change money at official money exchange counters with a clear sign showing this status. Changing money elsewhere is illegal and you risk losing your money.

Some rice wines sold without recognised brand names can have very high and sometimes fatal levels of methanol.

Wildlife, animal products and souvenirs

It’s illegal to buy, sell, kill or collect protected wild animal or plants. If you’re caught buying or trafficking these items, you could get a fine or long prison sentence.

Restricted areas

There are restrictions on travel near military bases in Vietnam. Do not take photos near bases.

If you want to visit a village, commune or ward close to the border, you may need permission from the provincial police department. Contact the local authority for more information.

Legal system

People convicted of sex and drug offences can receive very long prison sentences or the death sentence. The Vietnamese legal system is not well developed, and the standard of prisons is very poor.

If you are under criminal investigation, you can be detained for long periods without evidence. There can be long delays before you can contact lawyers, British Embassy officials or family. Legal representation is far below UK standards.

Foreign nationals involved in traffic accidents have been stopped from leaving Vietnam until the police have completed their investigations. This process can take a long time, and foreign nationals have been asked to agree out of court financial settlements. FCDO advises you to get professional legal advice and representation if you are in this situation. See Getting help .

Internet access

There are sometimes restrictions on internet use, which can temporarily affect access to social media websites. Most social media sites are normally available.

Outdoor activities and adventure tourism

British nationals have died or been injured in Vietnam while engaged in adventure tourism in rural and mountainous areas.

Risks include:

• dangerous terrain
• remote areas that are difficult for rescue services to reach
• flooding, swollen rivers and landslides, especially during the rainy season
• lower safety standards than in the UK

To reduce your personal risk:

• follow safety guidelines
• stay on main routes
• take a reputable guide – in some places it is illegal to go without a guide
• use approved adventure tourism companies – check local authority websites
• check weather forecasts
• make sure your travel insurance covers your planned activity

Illegal tour guides have been known to offer tours and activities prohibited under local regulations.

Firearms activities

If you take part in leisure activities involving firearms, make sure a reputable guide supervises you. There is a risk of hearing loss.

Transport risks

Road travel.

If you are planning to drive in Vietnam, see  information on driving abroad  and  driving rules in Vietnam .

You’ll need to have both the  1968 version of the international driving permit  and your UK driving licence with you in the car. It is illegal to drive without third-party insurance.

Do not use your passport as a deposit for hiring vehicles or as a guarantee you will pay a fine for a traffic offence.

Drink-driving is a serious offence in Vietnam. If you are tested and found to have any alcohol in your system, you may get a fine and possible imprisonment.

Compliance with road laws is poor – keep your speed down and stay alert.

If you’re involved in an accident, you could face criminal charges and may need to pay compensation to injured people, even if the injuries are minor. Offer the police your full co-operation and inform the  British Embassy in Hanoi  or  Consulate General in Ho Chi Minh City .

Motorbike safety

Travelling by motorbike in Vietnam is much riskier than in the UK. Motorbike accidents are common and have killed and injured British nationals.

Do not hire a motorbike if you’re not an experienced rider. Always:

• check your motorbike thoroughly
• rent from a reputable organisation
• use a good helmet – it is illegal for drivers and passengers to ride without a helmet

Make sure your travel insurance covers your planned activity.

Metered taxis from larger firms are generally reliable. Where possible get hotels or restaurants to book you a reputable taxi. Always make sure the driver identifies themself before setting off. If you book taxis using the Grab app, which is similar to Uber – you can make sure the details of the vehicle and driver match those given by the company.

Buses and coaches

Bus and coach crashes are not uncommon and are more likely at night. Vehicles are often poorly maintained. Night bus drivers may become tired but continue driving, resulting in sometimes fatal crashes.

Check with your tour guide about the safety record and registration of boats, and the certification of staff. Make sure you get a full safety briefing and have a life jacket when joining any boat. 

Consider safety standards carefully before taking an overnight boat trip on Halong Bay. Overcrowding and poor safety standards have led to accidents in past years. Some boats have sunk quickly and without warning.

Piracy in coastal areas of Vietnam is very rare. See  piracy and armed robbery at sea for precautions you could take.

Landmines and unexploded weapons

Landmines and other unexploded weapons are a hazard in former battlefields. Areas of particular risk include central Vietnam and along the Laos border, formerly crossed by the Ho Chi Minh Trail. Mined areas are often unmarked.

Extreme weather and natural disasters

Find out what you can do to prepare for and respond to extreme weather and natural hazards .

Tropical cyclones

Tropical cyclones affect the eastern coastal regions of Vietnam, with a risk of:

• strong winds
• heavy rainfall and flooding
• disruption to transport

The season normally runs from May to November, but tropical cyclones can happen at other times. Monitor approaching storms on the  National Centre for Hydro-Meteorological Forecasting  and  Japan Meteorological Agency  websites. Follow the advice of the local authorities, including any evacuation orders.

Vietnam has a tropical monsoon climate. There can be large amounts of rain in short periods of time. Localised flooding, flash floods and landslides are common. Take care if you’re trekking in rural and mountainous areas.

Before you travel check that:

• your destination can provide the healthcare you may need
• you have  appropriate travel insurance  for local treatment or unexpected medical evacuation

This is particularly important if you have a health condition or are pregnant.

Emergency medical number

Dial 115 and ask for an ambulance.

Contact your insurance company quickly if you’re referred to a medical facility for treatment.

Vaccine recommendations and health risks 

At least 8 weeks before your trip check:

• the latest vaccine recommendations for Vietnam in  TravelHealthPro’s Vietnam guide
• where to get vaccines and whether you have to pay on the  NHS travel vaccinations page

See what health risks you’ll face in Vietnam , including:

• mosquito-borne diseases like Zika virus, dengue, malaria and Japanese encephalitis
• air pollution – see  information on air quality on TravelHealthPro

Altitude sickness is a risk in parts of Vietnam. Read more about altitude sickness on TravelHealthPro . 

Some medicines can be hard to find in Vietnam and many are fake.

The legal status and regulation of some medicines prescribed or bought in the UK can be different in other countries.

Read  best practice when travelling with medicines on TravelHealthPro .

Vietnam has restrictions on medicines it classifies as ‘addictive’ or ‘psychotropic’. These include medicine used to treat of addiction, anxiety, depression, insomnia and other conditions.

It is illegal to have more than the amount prescribed by a doctor for 7 days (addictive medicine) or 10 days (psychotropic medicine). You should carry the prescription with your medication and a letter from your doctor stating how much of the medication you need during your trip.

The letter can be in English and should:

• include your name and age
• list the medicine name, volume and dosage
• include the doctor’s signature and address

If you’re unsure if your medication falls within these categories or you need to bring more medication than is usually allowed, contact the  Vietnamese Embassy  in the UK before travelling.

Healthcare in Vietnam

FCDO  has a list of  medical providers in Vietnam where some staff will speak English.

There is also  guidance on healthcare if you’re living in Vietnam .

Travel and mental health

Read  FCDO  guidance on travel and mental health . There is also  mental health guidance on TravelHealthPro .

The Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office ( FCDO ) cannot provide tailored advice for individual trips. Read this travel advice and carry out your own research before deciding whether to travel.

Emergency services in Vietnam

Ambulance: 115

Police: 113

Contact your travel provider and insurer

Contact your travel provider and your insurer if you are involved in a serious incident or emergency abroad. They will tell you if they can help and what you need to do.

Refunds and changes to travel

For refunds or changes to travel, contact your travel provider. You may also be able to make a claim through insurance. However, insurers usually require you to talk to your travel provider first.

Find out more about  changing or cancelling travel plans , including:

• where to get advice if you are in a dispute with a provider
• how to access previous versions of travel advice to support a claim

Support from  FCDO

FCDO  has guidance on staying safe and what to do if you need help or support abroad, including:

• finding English-speaking  lawyers ,  funeral directors  and  translators and interpreters  in Vietnam
• dealing with a  death in Vietnam
• being  arrested or imprisoned in Vietnam
• getting help if you’re a  victim of crime
• what to do if you’re  in hospital
• if you’re  affected by a crisis  such as a terrorist attack

Contacting  FCDO

Follow and contact  FCDO  travel on  Twitter ,  Facebook  and  Instagram . You can also sign up to  get email notifications  when this travel advice is updated.

You can also  contact  FCDO  online .

Help abroad in an emergency

If you’re in Vietnam and you need emergency help from the UK government, contact the  British Embassy in Hanoi  or the  British Consulate General in Ho Chi Minh City .

FCDO  in London

You can call  FCDO  in London if you need urgent help because something has happened to a friend or relative abroad.

Telephone: 020 7008 5000 (24 hours)

Find out about call charges

Risk information for British companies

The Overseas Business Risk service offers information and advice for British companies operating in Vietnam on how to manage political, economic, and business security-related risks.

Vietnam for Beginners: 17 Things to Know Before Traveling to Vietnam

Is this your first time traveling to Vietnam and looking for the best advice? 

You’ve come to the right place!

This is a list of 17 tips and advice intended for first-time travelers visiting Vietnam for the first time. In this guide, you will find useful tips before you leave and helpful advice to make the most out of your Vietnam trip. We’ve included suggestions on how to be safe, the best sim card to get, where to exchange money, and many expert recommendations we’ve gathered over three years of traveling and living in Vietnam. 

Here are the top 17 things to know before visiting Vietnam for the first time.

1. Visa is Required to Visit Vietnam

Most visitors from outside Vietnam need a visa to enter the country. If you are traveling from one of the 24 countries on this list , you will be granted a visa exemption for stays ranging from 14 to 90 days. This includes visitors from Germany, France, the United Kingdom, and the majority of Southeast Asian countries.

Other citizens can apply for an Electronic Visa (E-visa) or a pre-approved visa on arrival online.

Read: Visa Requirements for Vietnam

2. Best to Have a Travel Insurance

Though it is not required, having travel insurance on your Vietnam trip is always a good idea, and we highly recommend you to get one. You never really know what can happen on a trip and having insurance gives you peace of mind that goes a long way. 

We recommend Heymondo for travel insurance. (Get 5% off for being our reader!) What we like best is that you can easily access everything by downloading the app. This includes 24-hour medical assistance, free online calls, and the ability to file claims directly from your mobile phone. Besides that, they include COVID-19 coverage.

3. No Mandatory Travel Vaccines 

There are NO mandatory vaccinations required for entry into Vietnam. But it's still critical to get your travel shots to avoid getting sick on the road. Find a travel clinic near you and speak with a professional about getting the recommended vaccinations before traveling to Vietnam. 

4. Best Time to Visit Vietnam Varies

Because of Vietnam's long and narrow shape, the country experiences a variety of seasons and weather events throughout the year. As a result, we recommend that you check the weather forecast before traveling to any part of the country. The best time to visit Vietnam depends on what you want to see and do. 

In general, these are the most recommended times to visit per region:

Northern Region: Spring (March to April) and Autumn (September to November)

Central Region: February to August

Southern Region: December to May

Read: Best Time to Visit Vietnam

5. Many Ways of Getting Around Vietnam

Vietnam is massive, and there are numerous ways to navigate this vast country. If you want to see as many highlights as possible, we recommend flying. Domestic flights in Vietnam are not only cost-effective, but they can also be less expensive than taking the bus if booked ahead of time. Vietjet Airlines has some of the lowest fares, but check-in baggage will almost certainly cost you extra. Other airlines to consider are Bamboo Airlines and Vietnam Airlines.

Taking the bus is a popular option for both tourists and locals due to the low cost of bus tickets. To save money on overnight accommodations, take a sleeper bus. Aside from that, we recommend renting a motorbike and spending the day exploring smaller cities and towns. It will not only provide you with more freedom, but it will also allow you to see more of Vietnam.

Read: How to Get Around Vietnam

6. Cash is King 

Vietnam’s currency is called the Vietnamese Dong (VND). All of the prices on our Vietnam guides will be in both Vietnamese dong and US dollars. At the time of writing, 1 USD is approximately 23,000 VND .

If there is one thing to remember about Vietnam, it is that cash is king. We recommend keeping small amounts of cash on you at all times. There will be plenty of ATMs in major cities and even smaller towns, with varying ATM fees. Most ATM machines allow you to withdraw up to 3 to 5 million VND (132 to 220 USD) in a single transaction.

In larger cities, you can use your credit card to pay for lodging or food at nicer restaurants. If you bring foreign currencies, you can exchange it at any gold shop in a larger city, as they have some of the best rates. If you're in Ho Chi Minh City, here's where you can exchange money .

7. Get A Sim Card

The internet connection is reliable throughout Vietnam. Wifi is also available in nearly every cafe, restaurant, and hotel. However, in some rural areas, internet connections may be slower.

That’s why we recommend getting a sim card so that you can always connect to the internet. When you arrive at the airport, you can easily purchase a sim card with internet packages. Viettel, Vinaphone, and Mobiphone are the three main data providers in Vietnam. We recommend Viettel because it has the best coverage in the country, has fast speeds, and is very affordable. They offer a 30-day internet package with 2 GB of data per day for 120,000 VND (5.25 USD).

If you’re arriving at the airport late at night and the sim card kiosks are closed, don’t worry! Head to Thegiodidong or Viettel store during the day and bring your passport with you. You’ll find many locations in any of the big cities. 

8. Practice Basic Vietnamese Phrases

Vietnamese people are extremely friendly. Though speaking English on a daily basis is possible, especially in larger cities, communicating with the locals can be difficult at times. This is especially true in Vietnam's rural areas. Know that Vietnamese always appreciate when foreigners try to speak their language. So here are three phrases that are simple to remember and apply in any situation. You'll be able to impress the locals if you can master these three. If you can learn more, even better!

Hello: Xin Chào (sin chow)

Thank you: Cảm Ơn (gam un)

Excuse me: Xin Lỗi (sin loy)

9. Power Sockets in Vietnam

Most electrical outlets in Vietnam accept plug types A, C, and F. However, bringing a travel adapter is always a good idea just to be safe.

10. Vietnam is a Safe Country to Travel

Vietnam is a safe country to travel to despite some petty crimes, especially in the bigger cities. Like anywhere else in the world, great use of common sense can get you a long way. That being said, here are our top three things to avoid when visiting Vietnam.

- Avoid walking around with your phone out or at the back of a bike.

- Avoid leaving your belongings unattended, whether in hostel dorms or on buses.

- Avoid driving a motorbike without a license or a helmet. 

11. Pack Small

If there is one piece of advice we can give to long-term visitors to Vietnam, it is to pack light. Mostly because checked baggage is costly but a load of laundry is not. Just make sure to check the weather forecast because if you're visiting the north during the winter, you might need some warm clothes. Otherwise, you can always buy affordable clothes in Vietnam if need be! 

12. Be Confident When Crossing the Streets

When it comes to navigating Vietnam's busy streets, there is one piece of advice we can give: do not hesitate! Crossing the streets can be difficult with hundreds of motorcycles coming from all directions. Simply be confident and raise your hand to warn the drivers. This allows motorbike drivers to slow down and maneuver around you. Again, don't run; instead, be confident and don't hesitate when crossing the street.

Read: The Backbone of Society: Motorbike Culture in Vietnam

13. Tipping Isn’t Common 

Tipping is not expected in Vietnam and is not as common as it is in North America. When you go to a higher-end restaurant or any establishment, service is usually automatically included in your bill. That being said, tipping someone is always appreciated, especially if you enjoyed the service.

14. Don’t Drink the Tap Water

It is always a good idea, as in any other Southeast Asian country, to drink bottled water. In Vietnam, tap water is not for drinking but is safe enough for washing. Some hotels even provide free water so you can refill your bottles and not have to buy them every time. However, you will find numerous stores that sell bottled water on every corner. 

15. Vietnam is Street Food Heaven

Vietnam is full of mouth-watering and affordable street food and it’ll be a shame to miss it. We recommend taking a food tour to sample the best street food in town. Otherwise, when it comes to trying out street food, go where the locals go. It's usually a good sign when a spot is busy with locals.

Here are our three most recommended foodie tours in Vietnam to book.

16. Avoid Day Tours

If you don't want to spend the majority of your time on the road, avoid taking day trips to different cities as much as possible. For example, we do not recommend the Mekong Delta day trip from Ho Chi Minh City and the Halong Bay day trip from Hanoi. Spend at least a night to be able to fully appreciate the beauty of these places! Moreover, you will almost certainly end up doing the same tour that most companies offer in a given location. Besides, when it comes to exploring the area, you'll only be scratching the surface. This frequently leads to an incorrect perception of a place. 

17. Don’t Over Plan

There are so many things to do and beautiful places to visit in Vietnam that we’re sure you want to experience them all. However, you should try your best to not over plan and avoid booking tours in advance, especially if you’re booking on a site that’s unreliable. So, before you book your tours, read some online reviews to see if the company is legitimate. Not over planning your trip can also mean that you'll have more leeway. For example, if there's bad weather or if you find yourself enjoying a specific place. You won’t be able to do so if you already have your bus tickets or accommodation booked.

And that’s our top 17 tips and advice for travelers visiting Vietnam for the first time! 

We hope that we’ve answered all of your questions and are now ready for your trip. Let us know if you have any questions in the comments below.

Enjoy Vietnam and safe travels!

Some links in this Vietnam travel guide may be affiliate links.

This means that if you make a purchase after clicking on one of our links, we will receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. Please know that by doing so, you are supporting Colorful Journeys in continuing to provide free high quality content to help you in your travels.

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U.S. envoy visits Hanoi days after Putin, saying U.S.-Vietnam trust is at ‘all-time high’

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A senior U.S. diplomat held talks in Vietnam on Saturday and said that the trust between the two countries was at an “all-time high,” just days after Russian President Vladimir Putin’s state visit to Hanoi .

U.S. Assistant Secretary of State for East Asia and Pacific Affairs Daniel Kritenbrink insisted that his trip was unrelated to Putin’s visit on Thursday. Vietnam had elevated the United States to its highest diplomatic status, comprehensive strategic partner, last year, putting it at the same level as China and Russia. The elevation of the U.S. ties suggested that Vietnam wanted to hedge its friendships as Western companies look to diversify their supply chains away from China.

Kritenbrink was speaking at a briefing for selected media in Hanoi. A recording of the interaction was reviewed by the Associated Press.

Putin’s trip to Hanoi had triggered a sharp rebuke from the U.S. Embassy in Hanoi, which said that “no country should give Putin a platform to promote his war of aggression and otherwise allow him to normalize his atrocities,” referring to Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, now in its third year.

World & Nation

Putin signs deals with Vietnam in bid to shore up ties in Asia

To offset Moscow’s growing isolation, Russian President Vladimir Putin signed a series of deals with his Vietnamese counterpart during a state visit.

June 20, 2024

The American East Asia envoy echoed those concerns but said that he made it clear to Vietnamese officials that the “main reason” for his trip was the partnership between the U.S. and Vietnam. He met Vietnamese Foreign Minister Bui Thanh Son.

“Only Vietnam can decide how best to safeguard its sovereignty and advance its interests,” he said, while stressing the economic relations between Vietnam and its largest export market, the U.S. Trade between the two countries was $111 billion in 2023 — compared with $3.6 billion between Vietnam and Russia.

Russia remains important for Vietnam, not just because it is an old ally from the Cold War era, but also because it continues to be its biggest defense supplier and Russian oil exploration technologies help maintain Vietnam’s sovereignty claims in the contested South China Sea.

Kritenbrink said that China’s increasingly assertive actions in pressing its claims to virtually the entire South China Sea were a cause of “great concern” for the region and the world.

Russia and North Korea pledge mutual aid if either country faces ‘aggression’

The agreement, which includes a vow of mutual aid if either country faces ‘aggression,’ appears to be the strongest since the Cold War.

June 19, 2024

The territorial disputes, which involve China, the Philippines, Vietnam, Malaysia, Brunei and Taiwan, have long been seen as an Asian flashpoint that could pit the U.S. against China if the high seas confrontations escalate into an armed conflict.

Vietnam said Friday that it was ready to hold talks with the Philippines to settle their overlapping claims to the undersea continental shelf in the South China Sea in a diplomatic approach that contrasts with China.

“We think that China’s actions, particularly its recent actions, around the Second Thomas Shoal, vis-à-vis the Philippines have been irresponsible, aggressive, dangerous, deeply destabilizing,” Kritenbrink said. He stressed that defense treaties between the U.S. and its ally the Philippines were “ironclad.”

The Philippines said Friday it has no plan to invoke its mutual defense treaty with the U.S. after the Chinese coast guard reportedly rammed, boarded and used machetes and axes to damage two Philippine navy boats in a chaotic face-off that injured Filipino navy personnel.

Ghosal writes for the Associated Press.

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What do Vladimir Putin and Xi Jinping want from each other?

May 15, 2024

Armenia’s prime minister meets Putin in Moscow at time of tension between allies

May 9, 2024

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• Passports, travel and living abroad
• Travel abroad
• Foreign travel advice

Getting help

The Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office ( FCDO ) cannot provide tailored advice for individual trips. Read this travel advice and carry out your own research before deciding whether to travel.

Emergency services in Vietnam

Ambulance: 115

Police: 113

Contact your travel provider and insurer

Contact your travel provider and your insurer if you are involved in a serious incident or emergency abroad. They will tell you if they can help and what you need to do.

Refunds and changes to travel

For refunds or changes to travel, contact your travel provider. You may also be able to make a claim through insurance. However, insurers usually require you to talk to your travel provider first.

Find out more about  changing or cancelling travel plans , including:

• where to get advice if you are in a dispute with a provider
• how to access previous versions of travel advice to support a claim

Support from  FCDO

FCDO  has guidance on staying safe and what to do if you need help or support abroad, including:

• finding English-speaking  lawyers ,  funeral directors  and  translators and interpreters  in Vietnam
• dealing with a  death in Vietnam
• being  arrested or imprisoned in Vietnam
• getting help if you’re a  victim of crime
• what to do if you’re  in hospital
• if you’re  affected by a crisis  such as a terrorist attack

Contacting  FCDO

Follow and contact  FCDO  travel on  Twitter ,  Facebook  and  Instagram . You can also sign up to  get email notifications  when this travel advice is updated.

You can also  contact  FCDO  online .

Help abroad in an emergency

If you’re in Vietnam and you need emergency help from the UK government, contact the  British Embassy in Hanoi  or the  British Consulate General in Ho Chi Minh City .

FCDO  in London

You can call  FCDO  in London if you need urgent help because something has happened to a friend or relative abroad.

Telephone: 020 7008 5000 (24 hours)

Find out about call charges

Risk information for British companies

The Overseas Business Risk service offers information and advice for British companies operating in Vietnam on how to manage political, economic, and business security-related risks.

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Why Is Putin in Vietnam?

President Vladimir V. Putin is keen to maintain the longstanding military ties between Russia and Vietnam, as Hanoi has developed deeper bonds with Washington.

By Sui-Lee Wee

Reporting from Bangkok

President Vladimir V. Putin of Russia wrapped up a state visit to one ally, North Korea, and moved on to another, Vietnam, arriving early Thursday hoping to shore up crucial partnerships in the region as he wages a protracted war in Ukraine.

Mr. Putin’s war in Ukraine has left him isolated from the West, and his need for munitions to fight that war has pushed him closer to North Korea and its leader, Kim Jong-un. The two leaders have bonded over their common historical opponent, the United States, and on Wednesday revived a Cold War-era mutual defense pledge between their nations.

In Vietnam, by contrast, Mr. Putin met with officials who have recently forged deeper bonds with Washington. But Moscow has long been Hanoi’s main source of weapons, and Mr. Putin is keen to hold on to that position.

It is Mr. Putin’s fifth visit to Vietnam and follows trips last year by President Biden and President Xi Jinping of China, two leaders who sought assurances from Hanoi that it was not taking the other’s side.

For Vietnam, Mr. Putin’s trip will be an opportunity to solidify ties with Russia, its most important defense partner. Even though it has upgraded relations with the United States, Vietnam was still looking for secret ways last year to purchase Russian military equipment in contravention of American sanctions.

On Thursday morning, in typical scripted fashion, Vietnamese schoolchildren — waving both the Russian and Vietnamese flags — lined the Hanoi streets as Mr. Putin’s motorcade drove by. He was greeted by Vietnam’s newly installed president , To Lam, who gave him a hug.

Later, Mr. Putin was given a 21-gun salute at the Imperial Citadel of Thang Long, an important historical site in the center of the capital. A military band played the national anthems of both countries. The two leaders will hold a news conference after the talks are over, according to Vietnamese state media.

Washington has rebuked Hanoi for inviting the Russian leader, saying, “No country should give Putin a platform to promote his war of aggression and otherwise allow him to normalize his atrocities.”

This week, Mr. Lam told the local Russian envoy that Hanoi “always considers Russia one of the top priority partners in its foreign policy.”

Here’s what to know about relations between Moscow and Hanoi.

Russia and Vietnam have deep military ties.

In 1950, the Soviet Union was among the first countries to give diplomatic recognition to what was then the Democratic Republic of Vietnam, or North Vietnam. Over decades, Moscow became Vietnam’s biggest donor, providing military aid when Hanoi was fighting its wars against France and the United States.

The defense relationship has underpinned many ties between the two countries, which over the years also shared communist ideology. Mr. Putin arrived in Vietnam with his new defense minister, Andrei R. Belousov, underscoring how security matters are central to the visit.

Russian equipment represents about 60 percent to 70 percent of Vietnam’s defense arsenal, according to Nguyen The Phuong, who studies Vietnam’s military affairs at the University of New South Wales in Australia. Russia has supplied Vietnam with coastal defense missile systems, six Kilo-class submarines, fighter jets and many more lethal weapons.

Nearly all of Vietnam’s naval vessels come from Russia, according to Mr. Phuong. Russia’s T-90 tanks, which were the last-known major purchase of Russian arms by Vietnam in 2016, form the backbone of Vietnam’s armored forces, he added. This means that Vietnam is still going to be reliant on Russia in the years to come.

Vietnam has looked beyond Russia for weapons.

But the imposition of Western sanctions on Moscow has increased concerns in Hanoi about Russia’s reliability as a supplier, and made it increasingly awkward for Vietnam to continue dealing with Russia as it engages with the West.

Many of Vietnam’s leaders are also aware of the Russian military’s struggles against Ukraine — footage has shown the T-90 tanks being blown apart by drones used by Ukraine. They are also cognizant of Russia’s deepening relationship with China, which they regard as a threat because of a longstanding territorial dispute in the South China Sea.

In recent months, it has turned to countries like South Korea, Japan and the Czech Republic as alternative sources of weapons. It has also tried to build up its own defense industry. It has looked to India, another former Soviet ally, to retrofit some of its weapons.

The United States has been actively offering more weapons to Vietnam, with senior officials traveling to the country in recent months. But analysts say the top echelons of Vietnam’s defense leadership remain suspicious of Washington. They are reluctant to tie their fate to a country where arms sales have to be passed through a Congress that could make the deal contingent on human rights.

The two nations have joint ventures in the oil business.

Russia has a significant stake in Vietnam’s lucrative oil and gas sector. Vietsovpetro, a joint venture run by Russia’s Zarubezhneft and Vietnam’s state-owned PetroVietnam, operates Vietnam’s largest oil field, Bach Ho.

The profits from Vietsovpetro have generated millions of dollars for both Russia and Vietnam. Zarubezhneft and Gazprom, another Russian state-owned energy firm, are also involved in oil exploration projects in Vietnam.

For Moscow, these projects come at a time when Russian oil and gas exports to Europe have plummeted following the imposition of sanctions from the European Union. But they have irked Beijing because they are in waters that it contends are part of its territory.

Before the coronavirus pandemic, Vietnam was also a particularly attractive destination for Russian tourists. In 2019, Russia sent the sixth-highest number of tourists of any nation to Vietnam, just after the United States. But the numbers dropped during the pandemic and fell further after Vietnam stopped direct flights in 2022 after Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. Direct flights resumed this year.

Mr. Putin is seen as popular with the Vietnamese brass.

Beginning in the 1950s, thousands of Vietnamese Communist Party officials , top business officials, doctors, teachers and soldiers were trained in the Soviet Union and Russia. That list includes the current party chief, Nguyen Phu Trong.

But some felt those deep ties were ignored by the last Soviet leader, Mikhail S. Gorbachev, and Russia’s first president, Boris N. Yeltsin.

“The Vietnamese feel that Gorbachev in the 1980s abandoned Vietnam in an effort to improve relations with China; Yeltsin, all through the 90s, barely paid any attention to Vietnam,” said Ian Storey, a senior fellow at the ISEAS-Yusof Ishak Institute in Singapore. “Once Putin was in power in 2000, he gave a lot of face to it. So the Vietnamese are grateful for that.”

He added that the Vietnamese leadership liked Mr. Putin because “he put Vietnam-Russia relations back on track.”

Paul Sonne and Damien Cave contributed reporting.

Sui-Lee Wee is the Southeast Asia bureau chief for The Times, overseeing coverage of 11 countries in the region. More about Sui-Lee Wee