The world has been reeling under the onslaught of the Coronavirus. Every country has been closely monitoring the situation and measures have been put in place to protect citizens and halt the spread of the virus.
Like many other countries, Vietnam has had its run-ins with COVID-19. However, previous experience with other epidemics has prepared Vietnam to protect not only its citizens but also its visitors.
Visitors want to know all the Vietnam travel restrictions that have been put in place, so this is why in this article we look into the COVID-19 situation in Vietnam.
Resumption of International Commercial Flights
The country has resumed flights to various locations such as:
- Guangzhou
- Seoul
- Phnom Penh
- Taiwan
- Tokyo
- Vientiane
However, entry is accessible to experts, diplomats, investors, and their family members. Vietnam nationals returning home are also allowed to enter. Travelers must adhere to the set health regulations and present the required paperwork.
If you entered Vietnam on a tourist visa on or after 1st March 2020, your free residency is extended until 30th November 2020. However, visitors must fill out medical declarations.
Foreigners in the country during this time must fill out online medical declarations with their landlords or hotels. Those residing in locations such as Dong Nai, Da Nang, Hanoi, and Ho Chi Minh City must wear a facemask in public. Failure to comply will attract a fine.
Traveling in Vietnam during the Pandemic
In a bid to stem the spread of the coronavirus, Vietnam is only allowing certain individuals into the country. These include:
- People traveling for diplomatic reasons
- Experts
- Individuals traveling for official purposes
These must undergo medical checks as well as 14-day quarantine at their own expense. Foreigners staying in the country for less than 14 days are not expected to quarantine. However, they must abide by specific health regulations.
If you entered Vietnam after 1st March on a visa exemptions, tourism, or e-visas, you will be given automatic stay extensions. These are free of charge and valid until 30th November 2020. Those still in the country are required to declare their temporary residence through the following:
- The local police
- Their hotels
- Their landlords
They must also fill in Vietnam’s online health declaration.
Individuals who entered the country before March 1 may be considered for an extension. However, they must present an official letter from their embassy or consulate. The letter states that the bearer was not able to leave the country for equitable reasons.
A visitor who has received treatment for COVID-19 or completed the quarantine period can get an extension. They are expected to provide certification documents when leaving Vietnam.
Health and Safety Measures for Visitors
Individuals visiting Vietnam are encouraged to take precautions as they travel. They are reminded to follow the guidelines provided by the WHO. These include:
- Avoiding traveling if one has a fever, cough, and experiencing difficulty breathing
- Maintaining social distancing and wearing facemasks
- Washing hands regularly with soap and running water
- Eating only well-cooked food that is prepared in a sanitary environment
International commercial flights have resumed operations in certain regions. Vietnam is only granting entry to experts, diplomats, and their families as well as returning Vietnamese. The authorities expect visitors to meet specific health regulations to be allowed in the country.
By Alexa Coleman
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Source: Vietnam Insider