Vietnam: Authorities continue to enforce restrictions as of April 19 due to COVID-19 /update 50

Event

Authorities continue to enforce restrictions as of April 19 to stem the spread of COVID-19.

Domestic Measures
Officials continue to implement varying levels of domestic restrictions by classifying areas in a four-tiered system. The least stringent category, Level 1, requires almost no commerce and transport curbs, while Level 2 localities limit gatherings, some types of transport, and operations at public facilities; most localities are categorized under levels 1 and 2. Level 3 areas may restrict or suspend gatherings and transportation. Level 4 localities restrict transport and restaurant operations; of more than 10,000 communes and wards nationwide, authorities classify around 100 areas under Level 4 as of April 19. Wearing facemasks is mandatory in public; violators may face fines of up to VND 300,000.

Local officials in some areas may impose additional curbs on top of those mandated by the central government, though most localities have eased protocols. Hanoi has allowed non-essential businesses, like bars, internet cafes, and karaoke parlors, to resume operations.

Long-distance domestic travelers must complete health declaration forms before departure. Officials do not require passengers traveling from areas under Level 1-3 restrictions to show a negative COVID test. Passengers traveling from Level 4 areas must provide either a negative PCR or rapid antigen test obtained within 72 hours before departure. Travelers must also complete medical declarations and download the PC-COVID application.

The government began issuing vaccine passports, that provide information such as the vaccine type and inoculation date, April 15. The passports are accessible on the PC-COVID application; people who do not have the application may obtain their passport may access the health ministry's portal and submit the required information before receiving the passport by email.

International Travel Restrictions
The government has resumed issuing visas and no longer requires entrants to quarantine, regardless of vaccination status. However, arrivals must provide either a negative PCR test obtained within 72 hours before departure or a negative RAT test obtained within 24 hours before departure, complete an online health declaration before entry, and download the PC-COVID mobile application during their visit. Officials may require symptomatic passengers to undergo COVID-19 tests upon arrival. Incoming foreign nationals must have insurance that is worth at least USD 10,000 and covers COVID-19 treatment. Authorities require entrants to self-monitor their health for 10 days after entry and report to the nearest healthcare facility if showing symptoms; the enforcement level of the policy varies across Vietnam.

Foreign nationals from most international locations must have either a visa or a permanent or temporary residence document to enter Vietnam. Visa exemptions are in place for foreign citizens of 13 countries, including Japan, South Korea, and some European countries; travelers may enter Vietnam for up to 15 days, regardless of their passport type and purpose of visit.

Advice

Follow all official instructions. Abide by national health and safety measures. 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. Confirm all travel arrangements within Vietnam. Ensure contingency plans account for further disruptive measures or extensions of current restrictions.

Resources

International Arrival Health Declaration Website
PC-COVID application