IMPACT – HIGH

What is the change?
The Vietnamese government has implemented multiple new travel measures to halt the spread of COVID-19.

What does the change mean? Travelers arriving from Italy or Iran who left those countries less than 14 days ago will be denied entry or will be placed in a government quarantine area. The Immigration Departments in Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City have temporarily stopped issuing visas of all categories to Korean, Italian and Iranian nationals. Visa exemptions for citizens of South Korea and Italy have also been temporarily suspended until further notice.

  • Implementation time frame: Ongoing from March 2.
  • Visas/permits affected: Any visa used for inbound travel from the target countries and locations. Initial/new work permit and re-issues for Korean and Chinese nationals will also be impacted.
  • Who is affected: All travelers from Iran, Italy, South Korea and COVID-19-impacted areas. Korean and Chinese nationals working in Vietnam or wishing to do so may be affected as well.
  • Business impact: The new travel measures will affect all forms of travel from the targeted countries and COVID-19 areas, including travel for business.
  • Next steps: The new travel measures are in force until further notice. Employers should expect that any employees who are in the target countries or areas will be denied entry, placed in a government quarantine or be required to complete a medical declaration questionnaire upon arrival.

Additional information: The Ho Chi Minh City Labor Department has temporarily stopped accepting applications for initial/new work permits and renewals for Korean and Chinese nationals. Business and work visa renewal procedures for foreign nationals coming from countries strongly affected by the epidemic are subject to additional travel declaration requirements which the host company must sign. Travelers from areas impacted by COVID-19 may be requested to complete a medical declaration questionnaire after arriving in Vietnam, which a Health Quarantine officer will review.

Analysis & Comments: The new measures for travelers from Iran, Italy, South Korea and COVID-19-impacted areas represent Vietnam’s latest efforts to halt the spread of COVID-19. Those planning travel to Vietnam from the target countries and areas may wish to reconsider their plans. The response to the COVID-19 outbreak continues to develop, and Deloitte will provide additional updates as information becomes available.

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