Vietnam announced a move to reopen international air links on 15 February 2022, allowing travelers from all countries to enter under specific conditions. The framework centers on proof of vaccination, a recent negative RT-PCR test, and required medical insurance; quarantine and testing rules depend on vaccination status.
Background: what Vietnam’s reopening covers
On 15 February 2022 Vietnamese authorities signalled a broad reopening of air services, expanding which markets and carriers could operate into the country. The measure removed prior limits on which nationalities could travel in, but set entry controls aimed at reducing COVID-19 risk while restoring international connections.
The reopening builds on earlier pilot programs that allowed small groups of foreign visitors to return to selected destinations. The national scheme published for air travel specifies documentation, public-health checks and accommodation rules that apply to arrivals from any country or territory.
Key requirements and highlights
The main conditions for incoming passengers are: a negative RT-PCR test issued within 72 hours prior to departure, proof of having completed a full vaccination course (where applicable), and travel medical insurance with minimum coverage. The policy requires insurance that explicitly covers COVID-19 testing, treatment and any mandated isolation costs with a specified minimum sum.
Quarantine and further testing depend on vaccination status. The official text distinguishes between fully vaccinated travelers and those who are not; the vaccinated generally face shorter on-arrival quarantine and fewer in-country tests. Regardless of status, arrivals must register their passport and paperwork, and remain in accommodation approved by authorities for the quarantine period.
Practical tips for preparing to travel
Start your preparations by ensuring your RT-PCR swab is taken within 72 hours before your scheduled departure and that the laboratory report is issued in a format accepted by border authorities. Keep both digital and printed copies of your negative test, vaccination certificate, passport and proof of insurance.
Buy travel medical insurance that explicitly lists COVID-19 treatment, testing and isolation among covered benefits and meets the minimum coverage level set by authorities. Confirm with your insurer that the policy documents satisfy Vietnamese requirements before you travel, and have a printed copy ready at the airport.
- Check visa rules in advance; some travelers may pay a fee on arrival depending on nationality and the visa scheme in force.
- Prepare to pay in advance for any government-arranged tests or treatment fees if the policy requires upfront payment.
- Plan accommodation that can host guests for the required quarantine period—arrivals must use government-approved or private lodgings.
- For step-by-step entry options by different modes, see our guide to entry options.
Cultural and local context to expect on arrival
Authorities emphasise managed entry: public-health checks at airports, designated quarantine procedures, and required documentation checks. Expect staff at arrival points to verify insurance details and test results, and to confirm where you will complete any mandated isolation period.
Local policies around movement, masks and gatherings have varied by province. Visitors report that regional measures can differ and that local authorities implement the national framework with additional local rules. Allow extra time for arrival processing and for any local registration that provincial officials may request.
Who this reopening is suitable for
The policy is designed to allow fully vaccinated international travelers to enter with relatively short on-arrival restrictions. It is therefore most convenient for individuals who can provide documented proof of full vaccination and a recent negative RT-PCR result, and who can buy suitable medical insurance.
Travelers who are not fully vaccinated can still enter but should expect longer quarantine stays and extra testing. Families, long-stay visitors and those needing flexible itineraries should factor the potential for additional quarantine time and the administrative steps into their plans.
Comparisons and alternatives
Vaccinated and unvaccinated travelers face different processes on arrival; the main differences are the length of quarantine and the number of in-country tests. The table below summarizes core distinctions as set out in the available guidance.
| Item | Fully vaccinated | Not fully vaccinated |
|---|---|---|
| Allowed nationalities | All countries and territories | All countries and territories |
| Pre-departure test | RT-PCR within 72 hours | RT-PCR within 72 hours |
| Required insurance | Minimum coverage of at least USD 50,000 | Minimum coverage of at least USD 50,000 |
| Quarantine length | At least 3 days in approved accommodation | At least 7 days in approved accommodation |
| In-country RT-PCR tests | One RT-PCR test on day 3 of quarantine | Two RT-PCR tests (examples include tests on day 3 and day 5 or on day 3 and day 7 as indicated in official materials) |
| Other notes | Must present vaccination certificate showing second dose at least 14 days before arrival | Must present reason for incomplete vaccination and follow additional testing/quarantine |
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a negative RT-PCR to board a flight to Vietnam?
Yes. The current guidance requires travelers to have an RT-PCR test result issued no more than 72 hours before departure. Officials will check this documentation before allowing entry.
What level of medical insurance is required?
Travelers must hold medical insurance that covers COVID-19-related testing, treatment and isolation expenses. The guidance specifies a minimum coverage amount of at least USD 50,000; confirm policy wording and obtain printed proof to present on arrival.
How long is quarantine on arrival?
Quarantine duration depends on vaccination status. Fully vaccinated visitors are subject to a minimum three-day quarantine with a PCR test on the third day. Those not fully vaccinated should plan for a longer quarantine—guidance lists at least seven days with additional in-country testing requirements.
Where will I stay during quarantine?
Arrivals must remain in accommodation approved by authorities, which can be government-designated or private properties authorised for quarantine. Make arrangements in advance and keep reservation confirmations available for inspection.
Are there alternatives if I don’t meet vaccination requirements?
Travelers who cannot show full vaccination can still enter but should expect extended quarantine and extra testing. Consider whether your travel dates and budget can accommodate that. For broader entry choices by land or sea, consult our overview of entry options.