Vietnam Travel Update: Health Declaration Rules Explained for International Tourists

Planning a trip to Vietnam? You may have come across reports suggesting that all international travellers must submit a health declaration before entering the country from July 1, 2026. However, Vietnamese authorities have since clarified that the new regulation does not currently require every traveller to complete a health declaration.

Here's what the latest update means for tourists and what you should know before travelling to Vietnam.

Why Was There Confusion?

In May 2026, Vietnam issued Decree No. 165/2026/ND-CP, which outlines health quarantine measures for people entering, leaving, or transiting through the country. The decree led many travellers to believe that health declarations would become mandatory for everyone from July 1, 2026.

However, before the rule took effect, Vietnam's Ministry of Health clarified that the regulation should not be interpreted as a blanket requirement for all travellers. Instead, health declarations will only be required when public health authorities determine they are necessary, such as during an infectious disease outbreak or other health emergencies.
Also Read : Travel Guide to Explore Da Nang, Vietnam for Indian Tourists - 2025

Are Health Declarations Mandatory Right Now?

No—not for all travellers.

According to Vietnam's Ministry of Health:

• Health declarations are not currently mandatory for every international traveller entering, leaving, or transiting through Vietnam.

• Authorities will decide who must submit a declaration based on the global disease situation and public health risks.

• There is no routine requirement for all passengers to complete a health declaration at this time.

Could the Rules Change?

Yes.

The new decree gives Vietnam's Ministry of Health the authority to activate health declaration requirements whenever there is an increased risk of infectious diseases entering the country.

If such measures are introduced in the future, travellers may be asked to:

• Complete a health declaration before arrival

• Submit the declaration electronically or using an official paper form

• Provide vaccination or other health-related information if required for specific diseases

What Should International Tourists Do Before Travelling?

Even though health declarations are not routinely required at present, travellers should still prepare before departure.

Before your flight:

• Check the latest Vietnam entry requirements.

• Follow updates from your airline regarding any additional documentation.

• Keep your passport and visa (or eVisa) ready.

• Carry any vaccination records if travelling from countries where certain vaccines may be required.

• Monitor official government announcements in case entry rules change before your departure.

Is Vietnam Still Open to Tourists?

Yes.

Vietnam remains fully open to international tourism. Visitors can continue travelling for leisure, business, and other approved purposes while following the country's standard immigration and visa requirements.

The clarification issued by the Ministry of Health aims to prevent confusion and reassure travellers that there is currently no universal health declaration requirement for entering Vietnam.

Conclusion

Vietnam continues to welcome international visitors, and the recent clarification means travellers do not need to worry about completing a mandatory health declaration unless the government activates the requirement in response to a public health situation.

As travel regulations can change quickly, it's always a good idea to check official government updates and consult your airline before your trip.