Vietnam’s current Covid-19 entry requirements focus on standard immigration and health checks rather than mandatory pre-departure testing. Visitors should understand visa routes, passport validity, recommended insurance and basic health precautions before travel.
What are the Covid-19 entry requirements in Vietnam and background
Vietnam reopened international arrival for tourism on 15 March 2022 and, from 15 May 2022, removed pre-entry Covid-19 testing for incoming travellers under a government dispatch. These policy changes reflect an easing of border controls as reported by national authorities.
That said, authorities and transport operators continue to apply routine health measures in airports and public settings. Passport, visa and customs rules remain in force; visitors should check the specific entry permissions that apply to their nationality and the type of visa they plan to use.
Visitors report that some requirements and remits changed during 2022, so travellers are advised to confirm the latest rules before booking. As of 31 Oct 2022 the official public health figures and policy status were last updated; consider this a snapshot and verify more recent guidance when planning travel.
Key features and highlights for travellers
Visa options in Vietnam include visa exemptions for certain nationalities, an electronic visa (e‑Visa) and visas obtained through diplomatic missions or upon arrival with prior approval. The e‑Visa system accepts applicants from numerous countries and remains a convenient single-entry option for short stays.
Health measures of note: since May 2022 Vietnam has not required routine pre-departure Covid testing, but airlines and airports may still carry out verbal health screening and temperature checks. In-flight and airport mask requirements have been commonly applied by carriers operating in Vietnam.
- e‑Visa: available for many nationalities, processed in around three working days, single entry and valid for 30 days; there is a fee for applications.
- Visa exemptions: nationals of a range of countries can enter without a visa for terms that differ between 14 and 90 days depending on citizenship.
- Passport: most travellers need a passport with at least six months validity from the date of entry.
If you want a more detailed regional climate outlook before choosing travel dates, see the coverage on weather in November, which explains seasonal differences across the country.
Practical tips before you travel
Apply for the correct visa well ahead of departure. The e‑Visa route requires a passport scan and a passport-style photo and typically takes three working days to process. If you need multiple entry or a longer stay, arrange the appropriate visa via an embassy or consulate before leaving home.
Keep your passport in good physical condition and ensure it meets the six‑month validity rule; damaged passports have led to entry refusals in some cases. When you check into accommodation you will normally be asked to present your passport so staff can register your stay with local authorities—retain the document securely once it is returned to you.
- Insurance: passengers are advised to carry travel medical insurance; many policies now include Covid-19 treatment cover. Some guidance references a recommended minimum medical cover of USD 10,000 for Covid-19 treatment—verify the level required by your provider and confirm policy terms.
- Customs: declare items that exceed duty-free allowances, goods intended for sale, banned or restricted imports and cash amounts above the local threshold (more than USD 5,000 or equivalent).
- Health help: travellers with symptoms such as fever, cough or breathing difficulty should contact local health services; Vietnam’s public health hotline noted in various traveller guidance is 19003228.
For travellers planning to cross into neighbouring countries by road, you may find practical tips on travelling overland to Cambodia in the guide to to Cambodia by bus. Overland crossings often have separate entry rules and working hours.
Cultural context and local protocols
Vietnam is culturally diverse and has a set of common social expectations. Dress for religious sites is more conservative than beachwear, and public behaviour that disrespects local customs can cause offence. Vietnamese is the official language and English is commonly used in tourist areas, but having basic phrases prepared is helpful.
On public safety, violent crime affecting tourists is rare, though petty theft and opportunistic scams do occur in urban centres. Usual precautions—watching personal items and using reputable transport—reduce the chance of problems. Local emergency numbers include 113 for police, 114 for fire and 115 for ambulance services.
- Respect dress codes at temples and official buildings.
- Registering with your accommodation is a legal requirement; keep copies of any documents submitted.
- Be alert for motorcycle-snatch theft in crowded areas and secure valuables accordingly.
Who this guidance suits and alternatives in the region
This information is aimed at leisure and short-term visitors who need a clear summary of how Covid-19 rules affect travel to Vietnam. It is also useful for travellers arranging visas, planning itineraries across regional climates, or preparing for airport arrival procedures.
If you are considering nearby destinations instead, each neighbouring country has its own post-pandemic entry approach. Several regional states relaxed testing and insurance rules during 2022; travellers should check the current measures for each country since rules vary by nationality and date of travel.
- Overland travel: border crossings can have different health verification or document checks—plan extra time and confirm opening hours.
- Insurance and testing policies: requirements in Laos, Cambodia, Thailand and Myanmar have diverged since the height of the pandemic; verify each destination independently before booking.
Comparison of visa options
| Visa type | Main features | Typical processing | Entry points |
|---|---|---|---|
| Visa exemption | Citizens of selected countries may enter without a visa for 14–90 days depending on nationality | Not applicable | All standard international ports |
| e‑Visa | Single-entry; valid for 30 days; applicants from many countries eligible | About 3 working days (fee applies) | Major airports, designated land crossings and seaports |
| Visa on arrival (with approval letter) | Useful for multiple-entry or longer stays when approval letter provided in advance | Depends on embassy/agency processing; stamp fee payable on arrival | Airport arrival counters (with prior approval letter) |
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a Covid test before flying to Vietnam?
Since 15 May 2022 Vietnam removed the blanket pre-entry testing requirement for international arrivals. However, rules can vary by airline or origin country and may change; check with your carrier and the latest government guidance before travel.
What level of travel insurance should I buy?
Travellers are advised to take out travel medical insurance that covers Covid-19 care where possible. Some guidance lists a recommended minimum Covid-related cover of USD 10,000—confirm this with your insurer and ensure policy terms meet your needs.
How long does an e‑Visa take and who can apply?
The e‑Visa route typically takes around three working days to process and is available to many nationalities; it is usually a single-entry visa valid for 30 days. Applicants must supply a passport photo and a scan of their passport data page when applying.
What should I know about passports and entry?
Your passport should be in good condition and valid for at least six months from your arrival date. Damaged or invalid passports have led to refusals at border checkpoints, so confirm your travel document meets entry requirements well before departure.
Are masks and health checks still used on flights and at airports?
Airlines and airports commonly continue to conduct verbal health screenings and temperature checks. Many carriers operating in Vietnam have required masks during flights; follow your airline’s directions and airport advisories on the day of travel.