18 May 2021 | 10:27 AM UTC
Vietnam: Authorities continue to enforce COVID-19 restrictions nationwide as of May 18 /update 28
Vietnam continues to enact COVID-19 rules nationwide as of May 18. International travel restrictions remain in effect.
Event
Officials continue to enforce restrictions aimed at stemming the spread of COVID-19 nationwide as of May 18. Authorities require individuals who have had contact with known COVID-19 cases to quarantine in centralized facilities for 21 days. Passengers on public transport must wear facemasks. Long-distance domestic travelers must complete health declaration forms before departure. Additionally, in most locations, including Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City, all persons must wear facemasks when in public; violators may face fines of up to VND 300,000 (USD 13).
Authorities in some areas are maintaining tightened business and gathering controls in response to increased local COVID-19 activity. Officials in multiple areas, including Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City, have ordered the closure of several classes of nonessential businesses, including street food stalls, bars, and theatres. Officials in multiple areas, including Hanoi, have suspended in-person classes in schools. Hanoi has capped gatherings at 10 people. Da Nang's officials have suspended public transport vehicles with nine seats or less. Similar business and gathering controls are active in other areas, including Ha Nam, Hung Yen, Quang Ninh, Vinh Phuc, and Yen Bai provinces. Officials in other localities may introduce localized controls at short notice in the coming days.
Travel Restrictions
Most foreigners remain banned from entering Vietnam. Exceptions are in place for foreign experts, investors, managers, skilled workers, and resident diplomats, among others. All passengers must quarantine at centralized facilities for 21 days upon arrival.
Inbound commercial flights remain suspended until further notice. Charter flights may operate on a case-by-case basis to transport Vietnamese citizens and foreign nationals who are allowed to enter the country. Authorities have banned all flights from South Africa and the UK due to new COVID-19 variants in those two countries. Officials require permitted arrivals to test negative for COVID-19 within five days before the travel date.
Advice
Follow all official instructions. Abide by national health and safety measures. Reconfirm all travel arrangements. Consider delaying traveling if experiencing symptoms associated with COVID-19, as they may prompt increased scrutiny and delays. Liaise with trusted contacts for further updates and guidance. Maintain contact with your diplomatic representation. Confirm all travel arrangements within Vietnam. Ensure contingency plans account for further disruptive measures or extensions of current restrictions.
