COVID-19: Entry restrictions, health protocols updated

The Vietnamese government recently extended health protocols for Ho Chi Minh City (HCMC) and Hanoi for an additional two weeks.

HCMC:

• Officials extended Directive 16 on July 23 for HCMC for at least two weeks.
  • Residents living in high-risk areas or districts are not allowed to leave their residence except for food or medical visits.
• The Labor Department in HCMC will continue to operate at reduced capacity; the Immigration Department, consulates and notary services will remain closed indefinitely.

Hanoi:

• Officials extended Directive 16 on July 24 for Hanoi for at least two weeks.
  • Restaurants, public transportation and non-essential businesses will remain closed. Most employees are required to work from home, and companies must operate with a minimum number of staff in the office.
• As of July 26, the Labor Department began accepting entry demand approval applications online only and will not receive visitors or issue work permit applications until the end of the two-week lockdown.
• The Immigration Department will remain open with a reduced workforce.
• Embassies, consulates and notary services may be open, but individuals should check the availability of services on a case-by-case basis.

Additional Information: As of July 14, the mandatory hotel quarantine was reduced form 21 days to 14 days. Following the hotel quarantine, individuals must quarantine for an additional 14 days at home. All travelers arriving in Vietnam must have a PCR test conducted within 72 hours of arrival.

BAL Analysis: The response to the COVID-19 pandemic continues to develop, and BAL will provide additional updates as information becomes available.

This alert has been provided by Berry Appleman & Leiden LLP. For additional information, please contact berryapplemanleiden@bal.com.

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