Vietnam, a country known for its rich history and diverse culture, has been a popular tourist destination for many years. However, in recent times, the COVID-19 pandemic has brought travel to a standstill around the globe.
As the situation continues to change rapidly, many people are wondering if Vietnam is open for tourism. In this article, we will explore the current status of tourism in Vietnam.
Current Status of Tourism in Vietnam
As of September 2021, Vietnam has not yet fully reopened its borders to international tourists. The country still has strict entry requirements and quarantine rules in place to prevent the spread of COVID-19.
- Entry requirements: To enter Vietnam, all foreign visitors must have a valid visa and a negative RT-PCR test result taken within 72 hours before departure.
- Quarantine rules: Upon arrival in Vietnam, all travelers must undergo a mandatory 14-day quarantine period at a government-approved facility.
- Travel restrictions: Currently, only certain categories of travelers are allowed to enter Vietnam such as diplomats, investors, skilled workers and their families.
When Will Tourism Resume?
The Vietnamese government has not announced an official date for when tourism will resume. However, they have recently started pilot programs that allow vaccinated foreigners to visit select destinations within the country under strict guidelines.
Pilot Programs
The pilot programs include Phu Quoc island in southern Vietnam which opened up to international vaccinated travelers on October 1st 2021 under strict conditions such as pre-travel testing and mandatory quarantine upon arrival at designated facilities on the island.
Vaccine Passports
Vietnam is also reportedly developing its own ‘vaccine passport’ system that would allow vaccinated foreign visitors to enter the country without quarantine. The exact details of this system are yet to be announced.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Vietnam is not yet fully open for tourism. While the government has started pilot programs to test the waters, it’s unclear when international tourism will resume in full. As the situation continues to evolve, it’s important for travelers to stay updated on the latest entry requirements and restrictions before planning a trip to Vietnam.