Vietnam: Officials continue to implement COVID-19 restrictions in Hanoi as of Nov. 8 /update 9

Event

Officials continue to implement COVID-19-related restrictions in Hanoi as of Nov. 8. Authorities classify Hanoi as level 2 under a four-level COVID-19 risk assessment system in order of increasing risk of transmission. There are two level 3 high-risk areas in Hanoi; Tien Thang Commune in Me Linh District and Quoc Oai Town in Quoc Oai District.

Under level 2 measures, shopping malls, retail establishments, and business activities on e-commerce platforms may operate. Stores and companies providing essential goods and services like markets, banking, and logistics can open. Public transport, including bus and taxi services, may operate at 50 percent capacity. Food establishments may offer dine-in services at 50 percent capacity but must close by 21:00; some venues like bars must remain closed. Customers must submit an electronic health declaration. Businesses can resume normal operations but must adhere to health protocols. Museums and parks may reopen with at most 10 people in each group of visitors. Hotels can operate at 50 percent capacity. Weddings may take place with at most 30 people; attendees must be fully vaccinated. Schools may reopen in low-risk districts for students in some grades. Authorities have lifted permit requirements to travel within Hanoi.

Officials continue to encourage residents to limit travel to other localities outside of Hanoi. Intercity bus services have resumed. Rail services between Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh, as well as Hanoi and Hai Phong, are in operation. Hanoi has resumed air travel with Ho Chi Minh and Da Nang. Authorities have lifted centralized quarantine measures for passengers arriving on domestic flights; varying requirements are in place for domestic arrivals depending on their departure location. Fully vaccinated arrivals from level 4 localities must undergo a PCR test on arrival and self-isolate at home or at an accommodation for seven days; unvaccinated travelers must isolate at home for 14 days and undergo PCR tests on days 1, 7, and 14. Fully vaccinated and unvaccinated individuals from level 3 locations must self-isolate for seven and 14 days respectively. Fully vaccinated passengers from level 1 and 2 localities are exempt from quarantine and testing requirements.

Authorities will likely maintain heightened security to ensure compliance with restrictions. Lingering business and transport disruptions may continue across Hanoi.

Advice

Follow all official health and safety measures. Remain polite and cooperative if questioned by security personnel. Ensure contingency plans account for additional disruptive controls or further extensions of current restrictions. Postpone travel if affected by restrictions. Liaise with trusted contacts for further updates and guidance. Confirm flight status before checking out of accommodation and departing for the airport. Allow additional time for immigration and health screenings at all ports of entry. Consider delaying travel if experiencing symptoms associated with COVID-19, as they may prompt increased scrutiny and delays.