After nearly two years, Vietnam reopened to international visitors on March 15. When the date arrived, however, there was confusion because the relevant government authorities had not issued entry procedures, visa requirements, and other information.
Nonetheless, further information was later published.
Following a considerable fall in the number of cases, Vietnam suspended all COVID-19 testing requirements for overseas arrivals on May 15, as per Official Dispatch No. 416/CD-TTg.
This growth is in line with Vietnam’s policy of economic recovery and opening up. It also aligns with some countries’ efforts to expand their markets and GDP by opening their borders.
Tourists, business travellers, and airlines looking to recover after years of losses will be reassured by the elimination of testing.
From April 27, Vietnam halted all medical disclosures for all arrivals. Tourists entering Vietnam, on the other hand, should have medical or travel insurance that includes COVID-19 therapy and has a minimum liability of $10,000.
Travellers should also observe all pandemic precautions, such as wearing face masks and washing their hands.
In comparison to Southeast Asian countries like Thailand and Indonesia, which have more difficult admission criteria for international tourists, the lightening of entry processes is a noteworthy development.
Pham Binh Minh, the Deputy Prime Minister, has also directed relevant government institutions to return immigration and visa procedures to their pre-pandemic state. Citizens from 80 different countries can now apply for an e-visa for a stay of up to 30 days. Visa applications are now being accepted on the government’s e-visa website. The government also stated that foreign and domestic tourists should be treated equally.
Business visas for business travellers have also been reinstated, with no requirement for previous approval from the local people’s committee.
Previously, visa waivers were granted to nationals of Thirteen countries, including Finland, France, Italy, Spain, the U.k, Germany, Denmark, Russia, Japan, South Korea, Norway, Belarus, and Sweden.
The news is particularly encouraging for travel businesses that have sustained substantial losses. Due to border closures, Vietnam attracted more than 18 million visitors in 2019, compared to only 157,000 international entries in 2021.
Vietnam has also restarted direct flights to a number of countries, including the United States, Singapore, Thailand, the United Kingdom, and Australia, which will aid the country’s economy and people-to-people ties. Businesses and tour operators will be able to schedule trips more easily as entry procedures and visas are simplified, contributing to Vietnam’s developing economy.