Vietnam drops health declaration for international travelers
International travelers no longer need to submit health declarations to enter Vietnam. Here’s what you need to know and the few requirements that remain.
Planning a trip to Vietnam soon? There’s no need to worry about a health declaration being mandatory—it’s just a misunderstanding! As of right now, no health forms are required for entry into the country. The Department of Health’s clarification comes after the implementation of government decree no. 165/2026/ND-CP on July 1, 2026, which outlined health declaration protocols in greater detail.
Those required to declare their health status during quarantine include individuals entering, exiting, or transiting through affected countries. Article 22, paragraph 2, of Decree No. 165/2026/ND-CP (published May 15, 2026)
Ending the confusion: No blanket health declarations
Vietnam’s Ministry of Health has made it clear: international travelers do not need to submit health declarations as a blanket requirement when entering, exiting, or transiting the country.
Beware of outdated online rumours: The former Covid-19 tracking portal, tokhaiyte.vn, is no longer operational for border crossings. Do not rely on third-party websites offering obsolete health forms. The ministry is developing a new portal, but it will remain offline unless an emergency situation demands its activation.
Keeping options open: When health declarations might return
While Vietnam welcomes travelers freely, the country remains watchful of global health risks. Per Article 22 of the new decree, the Minister of Health reserves the right to reinstate health controls only if necessary (e.g., new, highly transmissible infectious diseases).
If and when that protocol is reactivated, it would apply as follows:
Targeted travelers: Those arriving from high-risk regions outlined by the ministry.
Timing: The declaration must be completed within the 7 days prior to crossing the border.
Format: Available in electronically or bilingual paper (English/ Vietnamese).
Avoid the common mistake: Don’t mix up health and immigration rules
This is the key point for travelers: while health declarations have been lifted, immigration requirements remain strict and digital.
Exemption from health declarations does not replace the "Pre-Arrival Information" form (digital arrival card), which is mandatory for entry.
This requirement falls under the Ministry of Public Security (Immigration), not Health:
Where? On Vietnam’s official immigration portal.
What? Submit your personal details, e-Visa information, and itinerary before reaching passport control.
Who? Required for travelers using digital immigration checkpoints at major international entry points (Hanoi-Noi Bai, Ho Chi Minh-Tan Son Nhat, Da Nang, and others).
Checklist: Essential entry requirements for Vietnam
To ensure a smooth arrival, prepare these documents before your flight:
Valid passport: Must remain valid for at least six months beyond the expected visa expiration date.
Valid e-Visa: Available to travelers worldwide, granting stays of up to 90 days (single or multiple entry).
Pre-Arrival Information: To be completed within 72 hours of arrival.
(Recommended) Travel insurance: Not required by customs, but essential for non-EU travelers without local medical safety nets.
Need help with your travel plans? Contact us for assistance completing your documents and ensuring everything is in order for your trip.
As a customer relations manager, my responsibilities include processing and tracking visa applications. I stay up to date with travel news, including new entry requirements and the specifics of different visa types.
