17 May 2022 | 07:20 AM UTC
Vietnam: Authorities continue to enforce restrictions as of May 17 due to COVID-19 /update 51
Vietnam continues to enact domestic, international travel curbs as of May 17. Pre-arrival testing for international entrants lifted.
Event
Authorities continue to enforce restrictions as of May 17 to stem the spread of COVID-19. The government has lifted the pre-arrival testing requirement for international arrivals.
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 10 areas under Level 4 as of May 17. 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. Long-distance domestic travelers must 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. Officials may require symptomatic passengers to undergo COVID-19 tests upon arrival. Entrants must download the PC-COVID mobile application during their visit. 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 several nations, 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.
