As of November 2021, Vietnam commenced a carefully planned, phased program to welcome international travelers back after an extended period. This initiative, agreed upon by the government, focuses on specific provinces and cities, allowing foreign visitors to return under certain health and vaccination requirements. The approach prioritizes safety while steadily revitalizing the nation's tourism sector.
The initial phase of this reopening strategy permits entry without mandatory quarantine for tourists who meet specific health criteria, including a negative SARS-CoV-2 test result and proof of full vaccination. This measured approach reflects Vietnam's commitment to adapting to global health circumstances while progressively resuming socio-economic activities, particularly those vital to its economic recovery.
Vietnam's Gradual Reopening Strategy
Vietnam implemented strict border controls in March 2020 to manage the spread of Covid-19, restricting entry primarily to foreign experts and returning citizens. However, in a significant policy shift, Standing Deputy Prime Minister Pham Binh Minh endorsed a reopening scheme proposed by the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism on October 25, 2021. This decision marked a transition towards a 'new normal' adaptation strategy, following extensive vaccination efforts across the country.
The government's statement emphasized a cautious yet adaptable progression, with various ministries collaborating to ensure the pilot scheme's safe and efficient execution. This phased reintroduction of international tourism is considered crucial for economic recovery, allowing the nation to slowly ease restrictions that were in place for many months.
Initial Destinations for International Arrivals
The initial phase of Vietnam's tourism reopening focuses on five key provinces and their prominent attractions. These areas were selected to host international visitors first, with plans for a broader expansion as conditions permit. Travelers are initially accepted for package tours arriving via charter flights.
The designated locations include:
- Phu Quoc Island (Kien Giang Province): A popular island retreat, Phu Quoc was among the first to welcome visitors. The island had already vaccinated all its residents with at least one dose, with the second dose actively being administered at the time of the reopening.
- Da Nang City: A major coastal hub known for its beaches and bridges.
- Khanh Hoa Province: Home to the well-known coastal city of Nha Trang, recognized for its beaches and water activities. For more details on this area, consider exploring Nha Trang's coastal attractions.
- Quang Nam Province: Features the historic town of Hoi An, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
- Quang Ninh Province: Encompasses Ha Long Bay, another UNESCO World Heritage Center. Information about this natural wonder can be found in our article on Ha Long Bay and Cat Ba Archipelago.
Initially, international trade and services in these specific areas will commence. Following a guest's first week in Vietnam, these five locations will be interconnected, allowing movement between them. The list of approved destinations and accommodations is expected to expand progressively, leading eventually to a full national reopening, contingent on the prevailing health situation. Visitors from low-risk regions, including Northeastern Asia, Europe, North America, Southeast Asia, and Oceania, were initially prioritized for travel to Phu Quoc through specific travel agencies and hotels.
Essential Entry Requirements for Visitors
To enter Vietnam under the initial reopening scheme, international tourists, including foreign nationals and Vietnamese citizens residing abroad, must satisfy several criteria. These requirements are designed to ensure public health and safety.
- Vaccination or Recovery Status: Adult travelers must present proof of complete vaccination against Covid-19. The second dose must have been administered at least 14 days, but no more than 12 months, prior to arrival. Alternatively, proof of recovery from Covid-19 within the last six months is accepted. Children under 12 years old traveling with fully vaccinated guardians are exempt from vaccination proof. Vietnam recognizes vaccine passports from 72 countries and is reviewing an additional 80 territories.
- Pre-Departure Testing: All travelers are required to present a negative RT-PCR or RT-LAMP test result for SARS-CoV-2, obtained within 72 hours before their scheduled departure. This negative result is necessary to participate in approved package tour activities upon arrival.
- Travel or Health Insurance: Visitors must possess travel or health insurance that provides coverage for Covid-19 treatment, with a minimum value of $50,000.
- Approved Package Tours: Entry is currently restricted to participants in approved package tours organized by specific travel agencies. These tours typically include flights, necessary testing procedures, and stays at registered resorts and hotels. Guests are expected to remain with their tour groups and limit contact with other individuals.
Understanding the seasonal travel guide for Vietnam can also assist in planning your trip around these requirements.
Arrival Procedures and In-Country Protocols
Upon arrival in Vietnam, international visitors are subject to specific health and safety protocols designed to monitor and mitigate any potential health risks. Adherence to these guidelines is mandatory for all travelers participating in the reopening program.
Travelers must install the IGOVN contact-tracing application on their mobile phones immediately upon arrival. A Covid-19 test will also be administered at the point of entry. If the test result is negative, visitors are permitted to proceed with their itinerary. Further self-testing every 2-3 days during their stay is recommended. The maximum permitted stay under this program is 90 days. For tours exceeding seven days, an additional test is required on the seventh day before travelers can move to another approved location.
Should visitors wish to visit relatives or locations not included in their pre-arranged tour program, they must register with local authorities and comply with the specific health and safety regulations applicable in those regions. This ensures that any travel outside the designated tour pathway remains within established public health frameworks.
Support and Resources for Travelers
To facilitate a smooth and secure experience for international visitors, Vietnam has introduced several support systems and digital tools. These resources aim to provide essential information and assistance throughout a traveler's journey.
A tourism map, integrated into the Vietnam Safe Travel App, identifies nearby hospitals and clinics, offering quick access to medical facilities if needed. Additionally, a dedicated tourism hotline (1039) has been established to address traveler inquiries. The website http://travelpass.tourism.vn is being prepared to display digital vaccination certificates, streamlining the verification process for visitors.
| Province | Main Attraction |
|---|---|
| Kien Giang | Phu Quoc Island |
| Khanh Hoa | Nha Trang City |
| Quang Nam | Hoi An Ancient Town |
| Da Nang | Da Nang City |
| Quang Ninh | Ha Long Bay |
Frequently Asked Questions
When did Vietnam begin welcoming international tourists again?
Vietnam officially began its phased program to welcome international tourists on November 2, 2021, following a government agreement.
Which areas in Vietnam are open to international visitors first?
Initially, five provinces and their key tourist spots were reopened: Kien Giang (Phu Quoc Island), Khanh Hoa (Nha Trang), Quang Nam (Hoi An), Da Nang City, and Quang Ninh (Ha Long Bay).
What are the vaccination requirements for entering Vietnam?
Adult travelers must show proof of full Covid-19 vaccination (second dose 14 days to 12 months prior to arrival) or proof of recovery from Covid-19 within the last six months. Children under 12 traveling with vaccinated guardians are exempt.
Do I need a COVID-19 test before traveling to Vietnam?
Yes, all travelers must present a negative RT-PCR or RT-LAMP test result for SARS-CoV-2, taken within 72 hours before departure.
Can I travel independently or do I need a package tour?
During the initial reopening phases, international visitors are required to join approved package tours organized by specific travel agencies, which include flights, testing, and accommodation at registered resorts and hotels.