From 15 May 2022 Vietnam removed most pre-departure COVID testing and quarantine requirements for travellers who are fully vaccinated. Visitors should still be prepared to show proof of vaccination, carry medical insurance that meets the stated minimum coverage, and follow any on-arrival health checks or instructions that authorities issue.
Background: how Vietnam opened its borders again
Vietnam reopened to international visitors in stages following pandemic restrictions. Earlier measures allowed entry with negative rapid or PCR tests and limited visa arrangements; those procedures were progressively relaxed. The most significant change came on 15 May 2022, when Vietnam eliminated mandatory pre-departure COVID-19 testing and quarantine for travellers holding full vaccination documentation.
Alongside lifting testing and quarantine, the Vietnamese government resumed electronic visa processing and restored short-term visa exemptions for a group of countries. Authorities have also emphasised routine checks of tourism facilities and communications campaigns to welcome visitors back while monitoring public health trends. Travellers should note that policies may be updated; prospective arrivals are advised to verify current rules before booking.
Key highlights: visas, eligibility and entry requirements
There are three practical entry pathways that visitors should be aware of: visa exemption for certain nationalities, an e-visa option for a wider list of countries, and conventional visas for others. Visa-exempt nationals typically receive a 15-day stay. The online e-visa system allows eligible residents to obtain a 30-day single-entry permit.
In addition to nationality-based entry rules, health-related conditions apply. At the time of reopening, travellers were expected to provide proof of full COVID-19 vaccination and to have medical insurance that meets a minimum coverage threshold for COVID-related costs. The government also encouraged the use of national health apps for monitoring; requirements and recommended apps can change, so check official guidance before travel.
Visa exemptions (15-day allowance)
- Germany
- France
- Italy
- Spain
- United Kingdom (Great Britain and Northern Ireland)
- Russia
- Japan
- Republic of Korea
- Denmark
- Sweden
- Norway
- Finland
- Belarus
E-visa eligibility (30-day single entry)
- Argentina, Armenia, Azerbaijan, Ireland, Iceland, Austria, Poland, Belarus, Belgium, Portugal, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Brazil, Brunei, Bulgaria, UAE, Kazakhstan, Canada, Qatar, Germany, Chile, Colombia, India, Czech Republic, Andorra, Liechtenstein, Monaco, Croatia, Cuba, Denmark, Cyprus, Timor-Leste, Estonia, Georgia, Republic of Korea, United States, Hungary, Greece, Italy, Latvia, Russia, United Kingdom, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Micronesia, Malta, North Macedonia, Mexico, Myanmar, Moldova, Mongolia, Montenegro, Nauru, Japan, New Zealand, Australia, Palau, Panama, Papua New Guinea, Peru, Finland, France, Fiji, Philippines, Marshall Islands, Solomon Islands, Romania, Samoa (Western Samoa), San Marino, Serbia, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, China, Uruguay, Vanuatu, Venezuela, Netherlands, Slovakia, Slovenia, Switzerland, China, Uruguay, Vanuatu, Venezuela, Netherlands, Slovakia, Slovenia
Note: the above e-visa list reflects the countries that were able to apply when online processing resumed; official lists and the exact terms (such as stay length) are set by Vietnamese authorities and can be updated.
Practical tips for planning travel to Vietnam
Before you travel, confirm the validity of your passport and whether you require a visa, e-visa, or are eligible for a visa exemption. Make sure your proof of full vaccination is accessible in a digital or printed format, and arrange medical insurance that meets the stated minimum coverage for COVID-related costs. Many travellers find it easier to keep insurance documents and vaccination proof together for presentation at arrival checkpoints.
Although pre-departure testing was removed for fully vaccinated arrivals at the major reopening date, local health checks and requirements can still be introduced. Keep an eye on airline updates and official Vietnamese announcements close to departure. For city-specific planning and on-the-ground tips, local guides are useful—see, for example, Hanoi travel tips for navigating the capital.
- Bring both digital and printed vaccination proof.
- Purchase medical insurance with at least USD 10,000 COVID-related coverage.
- Confirm visa or e-visa status well in advance, and check processing timelines.
- Be prepared to install or use recommended health apps if asked by authorities.
Cultural and operational context for visitors
Vietnamese tourism authorities took steps to restore services and refurbish facilities after border closures. The tourism sector has been promoting the country to key source markets and preparing accommodation, transport and attractions to receive international guests again. Local businesses and tour operators have adapted to the evolving situation, but service levels in some areas may still be affected by staffing and seasonal factors.
Respect for local guidance on health and safety is important. Visitors should follow instructions from venue operators, transport providers and local officials, and be mindful that regional differences in procedures can occur. For travellers interested in longer or themed trips—historic neighbourhoods, food-focused itineraries, or countryside stays—consider reading base-city or thematic guides before you go; for instance, guidance on where to stay in Hanoi can help set expectations about neighbourhood character and access.
Who this reopening suits and travel options
The current entry rules are most convenient for fully vaccinated travellers who can present recognised proof of vaccination and who come from visa-exempt or e-visa-eligible countries. Those arriving from nations outside the e-visa list will need to arrange the appropriate visa through diplomatic channels or local consular services in advance.
If you prefer pre-planned arrangements, package tours remain an option; independent travellers who are comfortable arranging visas, insurance and logistics can also operate easily under the reopened rules. For a decision framework on booking methods, read the analysis on whether to buy a full package tour or plan the trip yourself.
- Best for short stays: travellers from the 13 visa-exempt countries (15 days).
- Best for up to 30 days: nationalities eligible for an e-visa.
- Longer or multiple entries: consult consular services for standard visa options.
Comparisons: visa exemption, e-visa and regular visa
| Entry route | Who it applies to | Typical maximum stay | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Visa exemption | Citizens of 13 listed countries | 15 days | Granted at arrival under bilateral arrangements; confirm passport rules before travel. |
| E-visa | Citizens of about 80 eligible countries | 30 days (single entry) | Applied for online; electronic approval must be printed or saved for immigration. |
| Regular visa | Other nationalities or longer stays | Varies by visa type | Issued by Vietnamese embassies/consulates; processing times and requirements differ. |
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a pre-departure COVID test to enter Vietnam?
As of 15 May 2022, pre-departure testing and mandatory quarantine were removed for travellers who can present valid proof of full vaccination. Policies can change; always verify current entry rules with official sources or your airline before flying.
Is medical insurance mandatory, and what should it cover?
Travellers were asked to have medical insurance covering at least USD 10,000 for COVID-related expenses, including testing, treatment and related isolation. Check your policy’s specific terms to ensure it covers these items and is recognised for entry.
What happens if a visitor tests positive for COVID-19 on arrival?
Public guidance indicated that travellers who test positive may be required to isolate and receive medical care at designated facilities. The exact procedures—such as the location of treatment and cost responsibilities—depend on health authorities and the traveller’s insurance coverage.
Which countries are eligible for visa exemption and e-visa?
Vietnam restored short-term visa exemption for 13 countries (listed above) and resumed e-visa processing for around 80 nationalities (a representative list appears above). These arrangements were active when the reopening measures were introduced; travellers should confirm eligibility based on their nationality and planned stay.
Could entry requirements change after I book?
Yes. Health and immigration rules can be updated in response to changing circumstances. It is prudent to monitor official announcements, consult your airline, and consider flexible booking or travel insurance that covers interruptions.