Vietnam Reopens to Tourists on March 15
Vietnam is reopening three months ahead of schedule, allowing tourists to return starting March 15. This decision was reported by the state-run newspaper.
Furthermore, Vietnam is phasing in its welcome to travelers. Recently, the country lifted COVID-19 restrictions on international passenger flights, restoring both inbound and outbound services to pre-pandemic levels.
Moreover, the government is preparing to roll back tourism curbs entirely on March 15, facilitating a more open travel environment.
Proposed Entry Rules for Travelers
While specific details are still being finalized, the new tourism plan will require travelers to present either a recovery or vaccination certificate. The second dose should be administered at least 14 days and no more than 12 months prior to entry.
Additionally, travelers must take a pre-departure PCR test no more than 72 hours before flying or a rapid antigen test within 24 hours of departure. A secondary test will be administered upon arrival, and passengers are required to quarantine for one night in an approved hotel while awaiting their test results.
It’s vital to have medical or travel insurance that covers COVID-19 treatment, with a minimum coverage of $50,000 (this typically costs about $40 to obtain).
Current Entry Program in Vietnam
After adopting a zero-COVID strategy in the early pandemic days with strict border controls and quarantine measures, Vietnam gradually began lifting restrictions in September as vaccination rates increased.
At present, visitors from approved countries can enter Vietnam under a pilot program resembling Thailand’s Sandbox initiative. Participants are required to stay at designated beach locations for a minimum of seven days before exploring other parts of the country. Notable destinations include Phu Quoc, Danang, Khanh Hoa, Quang Ninh, and Quang Nam, which is home to UNESCO World Heritage sites.
This program will be discontinued in March as Vietnam reopens to tourists, though certain areas may still impose restrictions based on local COVID-19 outbreaks.
As the situation continues to evolve, additional entry protocols are expected to be announced, and updates will be provided as more information becomes available.
