The tropical storm season runs from May to November. Tropical storms can cause serious travel disruption. Follow and monitor local and international weather updates from the National Centre for Hydro-Meteorological Forecasting and Japan Meteorological Agency and follow the advice of local authorities.
\n\nSee Extreme weather and natural disasters.
\n\nFor more regular updates, English-news versions of local newspapers are available at VNexpress and Vietnam News
\nEscalation in the Middle East has caused widespread travel disruption, including airspace closures, delayed and cancelled flights.
\n\nYour travel plans may be affected, even if your destination is not in the Middle East. Before you travel:
\n\nNo travel can be guaranteed safe. Read all the advice in this guide. You may also find it helpful to:
\n\nIf you choose to travel, research your destinations and get appropriate travel insurance. Insurance should cover your itinerary, planned activities and expenses in an emergency.
\n\nThe Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) provides advice about risks of travel to help you make informed decisions. Find out more about FCDO travel advice.
\n\nSign up to get email notifications when this travel advice is updated.
\n\nFollow FCDO:
\n\nThis information is for people travelling on a full ‘British citizen’ passport from the UK. It is based on the UK government’s understanding of the current rules for the most common types of travel.
\n\nThe authorities in Vietnam set and enforce entry rules. If you’re not sure how these requirements apply to you, contact the Vietnamese Embassy in the UK.
\n\nFrom 15 April 2026, all foreign nationals entering Vietnam via Tan Son Nhat Airport (SGN), Ho Chi Minh City, are encouraged by the Vietnamese Government to complete a digital arrival card online before arrival.
\n\nThe digital arrival card system is not currently a mandatory requirement for entry into Vietnam via Tan Son Nhat airport, but this may change, or be rolled out to other airports in Vietnam with limited notice.
\n\nAdditionally, from 1 July, if you travel to or transit through Vietnam you may be required to complete a health declaration, which may include providing proof of vaccinations. Check official guidance from your nearest Vietnamese Embassy for instructions on how to complete the declaration.
\n\nTo enter Vietnam, your passport must have:
\n\nCheck with your travel provider that your passport and other travel documents meet requirements. Renew your passport if you need to.
\n\nYou will be denied entry if you do not have a valid travel document or try to use a passport that has been reported lost or stolen.
\n\nIt is a requirement of Vietnamese authorities that visitors enter and exit Vietnam using the same passport.
\n\nMake sure you get your passport stamped.
\nCheck the visa expiry date written in your passport is correct before leaving border control. If it is wrong, you could be accused of overstaying. Your passport is stamped upon entry which will specify the date by which you need to leave Vietnam.
\n\nWhen returning to the UK, British citizens must carry a valid British passport or certificate of entitlement. See Dual citizenship.
\n\nYou can visit Vietnam without a visa for up to 45 days for tourism or business. On arrival, your passport will be stamped with an entry and exit stamp (the date you have to leave by). Check that the date given is 45 days from your arrival date, as Immigration will not change this after you have left the airport/land border.
\n\nIf you want to stay longer than 45 days, you can:
\n\nE-visas restrict you to the entry and exit points you select when you apply. If you get an e-visa while in Vietnam, you must exit the country and re-enter to start your e-visa.
\n\nIf you wish to stay longer than 90 days, please visit the Vietnamese Immigration Department (in vietnamese) for further information and contact details of your nearest office.
\n\nThe British Embassy will not assist with visa extensions.
\n\nIf you want to work or study, check which type of visa or work permit you need with the Vietnam Immigration Department.
\n\nRead about visas and work permits if you live in Vietnam.
\n\nIf you overstay your visa or work illegally, the authorities can prevent you from leaving until you pay a fine. You could be deported and prevented from visiting Vietnam in the future.
\n\nIf you transfer from an international flight to a domestic flight in Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh City, you must go through immigration and enter Vietnam. You must do this even if your final destination is outside Vietnam. Check with your airline before departing.
\n\nYou cannot leave Vietnam without a valid visa and must enter and exit Vietnam using the same passport.
\n\nVietnamese authorities may place an exit ban on certain individuals to prevent them from leaving the country. Your passport will be seized until the case is fully investigated. If you are unable to leave the country because of an exit ban, consult a lawyer and contact your nearest British embassy or consulate.
\n\nAn exit ban can relate to investigations into:
\n\nFor details about medical entry requirements and recommended vaccinations, see TravelHealthPro’s Vietnam guide
\n\nThere are strict rules about goods you can take into or out of Vietnam. You must declare anything that may be prohibited or subject to tax or duty.
\n\nIf you’re taking prescription medication into Vietnam, carry it in your hand luggage with a copy of the prescription. If it has a total import value greater than 100 US dollars, you must declare it at customs. For information about restrictions on medication, see Health.
\n\nIf you’re taking cash into or out of Vietnam, you must declare amounts over:
\n\nIf you’re leaving the country with more than these amounts, declare the money at customs and show either:
\n\nThere is a high threat of terrorist attack globally affecting UK interests and British nationals, including from groups and individuals who view the UK and British nationals as targets. Stay aware of your surroundings at all times.
\n\nUK Counter Terrorism Policing has information and advice on staying safe abroad and what to do in the event of a terrorist attack. Find out how to reduce your risk from terrorism while abroad.
\n\nAlthough there is no recent history of terrorism in Vietnam, attacks cannot be ruled out.
\n\nAttacks could be indiscriminate including in places visited by foreign nationals. Stay aware of your surroundings, keep up to date with local media reports and follow the advice of local authorities.
\n\nVietnam has a single-party political system, which does not welcome people disagreeing with the government. Some protests in recent years have turned violent or been violently suppressed by the authorities. Avoid all protests.
\n\nWithin the Vietnamese territory, local authorities can block access to:
\n\nYou should not expect internet privacy. Local authorities can review the content stored or consulted on your electronic devices.
\n\nBritish nationals should be cautious of political activities, including criticising the government or its domestic and foreign policies or advocating alternatives to Communist Party rule. Possession of political material, and non-sanctioned religious activities including proselytising could lead to a temporary ban on leaving the country, a prison sentence, or a full travel ban.
\n\nBritish nationals of Vietnamese descent should be especially careful with their online postings.
\n\nPolitical dissent is rare in Vietnam and protests are generally not tolerated. You should avoid any protests or demonstrations. Follow any instructions issued by authorities.
\n\nViolent crime against foreigners is rare, however petty crimes such as theft and pickpocketing occur regularly. Bag-snatchers operate in crowded areas and in places visited by tourists. Typically, there is a rise in petty crime during the Christmas and Tet Lunar New Year seasons.
\n\nBag-snatching by thieves on motorcycles is common, hold bags in front of you or on the opposite side of the traffic to make them difficult to steal. Be aware of motorcycles approaching as you walk. Be prepared to surrender your valuables rather than risk being injured in a struggle.
\n\nThere is a risk of petty theft on buses and trains, particularly while asleep on overnight trains.
\n\nDo not give your passport to others as a guarantee – for example, to motorcycle rental shops or landlords. They can hold your passport against claimed damage.
\n\nKeep your passport safe and other valuables in your hotel or in another secured location at all times and carry both photo and digital copies of your passport. You should immediately report a lost or stolen passport to the British Embassy in Hanoi or Consulate General in Ho Chi Minh City.
\n\nBritish nationals have reported rape and sexual assaults in the main tourist areas and places where foreigners live, often committed by or linked to unlicenced taxi drivers. Women have also reported indecent assaults and harassment. These include inappropriate touching and groping, particularly while walking alone.
\n\nTo reduce your personal risk:
\n\nIn Vietnam there is a higher burden of proof for victims than in the UK. Victims must show they did not consent, particularly if they drank alcohol or knew the alleged attacker.
\n\nIf you are a victim of a sexual assault, you can reach out to the British Embassy in Hanoi or Consulate General in Ho Chi Minh City. Consular staff can assist you in reporting an incident to local authorities, if you would like to do so. Read FCDO’s information pack relating to rape and sexual assaults in Vietnam for more advice.
\n\nThere have been deaths and cases of serious illness caused by alcoholic drinks containing methanol in Vietnam.
\n\nMethanol poisoning cases have resulted from drinks purchased in licensed bars, shops and hotels in tourist areas. Even small amounts of methanol can kill. It is not possible to identify methanol in alcoholic drinks by taste or smell. See Travel Aware Drink Spiking and Methanol Poisoning for information about how to reduce the risks.
\n\nSeek urgent medical attention if you or someone you are travelling with show the signs of methanol poisoning after drinking.
\n\nBe wary of job offers that appear too good to be true. People have arrived in the Mekong region and have been illegally transported to neighbouring countries on the promise of high-paying jobs, which turn out to be scams.
\n\nThere have been incidents of:
\n\nBefore signing an employment contract or travelling to Vietnam for work, verify the true nature of the work you’re offered.
\n\nCheck for:
\n\nNever hand over your passport to your employer, even for safekeeping. Reputable businesses will never ask you to hand over your passport.
\n\nBe cautious about offers of free bus transfers to hotels, unless organised in advance. These may be scams.
\n\nYou must always carry photographic ID. The authorities will accept a printed copy of the photo page of your passport and visa.
\n\nPenalties for possessing, using, distributing or manufacturing drugs, including cannabis, regardless of the amount involved, are severe. \nYou should expect a long jail sentence and heavy fines for possessing, using or smuggling illegal drugs, including when transiting through the airport.
\n\nAirports in Vietnam have excellent technology and security for detecting illegal items. This is also used to scan the baggage of transiting passengers.
\n\nThe death penalty may also be imposed depending on the severity of the crime. Police periodically raid nightlife establishments suspected of engaging in the drug trade. You may be required to submit to drug testing if present during these raids.
\n\nPolice will also routinely conduct drug testing at private residences or parties when responding to a reported disturbance. A positive result, regardless of whether drugs were consumed in Vietnam or before entry, may result in criminal charges.
\n\nIllegal drugs are often tampered with or spiked and can be much stronger than in Europe. British nationals in Vietnam have suffered severe psychiatric problems because of drug use.
\n\nRecreational drugs available in Vietnam can be extremely dangerous and can result in death. Drugs sold in Vietnam may be fake, synthetic, or laced with toxic ingredients undetectable to the buyer. This includes nitrous oxide balloons widely available in nightlife establishments.
\n\nIt is important to be aware of your rights if you are detained by the police. See our guidance for those detained or imprisoned in Vietnam.
\n\nYou should avoid purchasing liquor or cigarettes from street vendors or strangers, as the authenticity cannot be assured.
\n\nVapes and related products are banned. You cannot buy vapes in Vietnam or bring them into the country.
\n\nVietnam is a generally tolerant and progressive place for LGBT+ travellers. There are no criminal penalties for same-sex sexual activity or changing gender. Same-sex marriage is not recognised in law.
\n\nRead more advice for LGBT+ travellers.
\n\nRespect local customs and dress in appropriate clothing when entering religious or cultural sites. This usually means covering your shoulders and knees. You’ll often see signs outside religious or cultural sites that tell you the dress code.
\n\nOnly change money at official money exchange counters with a clear sign showing this status. Changing money elsewhere is illegal and you risk losing your money.
\n\nIt’s illegal to buy, sell, kill or collect protected wild animal or plants. If you’re caught buying or trafficking these items, you could get a fine or long prison sentence.
\n\nThere are restrictions on travel near military bases in Vietnam. Do not take photos near bases.
\n\nIf you want to visit a village, commune or ward close to the border, you may need permission from the provincial police department. Contact the local authority for more information.
\n\nCheck with local authorities before visiting border areas to see if you need to obtain a travel permit issued by local authorities. These areas are not always marked, and there are no warnings about prohibited travel.
\n\nPeople convicted of sex and drug offences can receive very long prison sentences or the death sentence. Even minor crimes, such as theft, have the possibility of carrying a prison sentence. The Vietnamese legal system operates differently from the UK, and the standard of prisons is very poor.
\n\nIf you are under criminal investigation, you can be detained for long periods without evidence or official charges. There can be long delays before you can contact lawyers, British Embassy officials or family. Legal representation is far below UK standards.
\n\nForeign nationals involved in traffic accidents have been stopped from leaving Vietnam until the police have completed their investigations. This process can take a long time, and foreign nationals have been asked to agree out of court financial settlements. FCDO advises you to get professional legal advice and representation if you are in this situation. See Getting help.
\n\nThere are sometimes restrictions on internet use, which can temporarily affect access to social media websites. Most social media sites are normally available.
\n\nTransport and tour operators’ safety and maintenance standards may not meet the standards you find in the UK. British nationals have died or been injured in Vietnam while engaged in adventure tourism in rural and mountainous areas.
\n\nRisks include:
\n\nTo reduce your personal risk:
\n\nIllegal tour guides have been known to offer tours and activities prohibited under local regulations.
\n\nIf you take part in leisure activities involving firearms, make sure a reputable guide supervises you. There is a risk of hearing loss.
\n\nIf you are planning to drive in Vietnam, see information on driving abroad and driving rules in Vietnam.
\n\nYou’ll need to have both the 1968 version of the international driving permit and your UK driving licence with you whilst driving a car or motorbike in Vietnam. It is illegal to drive without third-party insurance.
\n\nDo not use your passport as a deposit for hiring vehicles or as a guarantee you will pay a fine for a traffic offence.
\n\nDrink-driving is a serious offence in Vietnam. If you are tested and found to have any alcohol in your system, you may get a fine and possible imprisonment.
\n\nCompliance with road laws is poor – keep your speed down and stay alert.
\n\nIf you’re involved in an accident, you could face criminal charges and may need to pay compensation to injured people, even if the injuries are minor. There is also the possibility of a travel ban while the investigation is carried out. Offer the police your full co-operation and inform the British Embassy in Hanoi or Consulate General in Ho Chi Minh City.
\n\nTravelling by motorbike in Vietnam is much riskier than in the UK. Motorbike accidents are common and have killed and injured British nationals.
\n\nDo not hire a motorbike if you’re not an experienced rider. Always:
\n\nMake sure your travel insurance covers your planned activity.
\n\nMetered taxis from larger firms are generally reliable. Where possible get hotels or restaurants to book you a reputable taxi. Always make sure the driver identifies themself before setting off. If you book taxis using the Grab app, which is similar to Uber – you can make sure the details of the vehicle and driver match those given by the company.
\n\nBus and coach crashes are not uncommon and are more likely at night. Vehicles are often poorly maintained. Night bus drivers may become tired but continue driving, resulting in sometimes fatal crashes.
\n\nCheck with your tour guide about the safety record and registration of boats, and the certification of staff. Make sure you get a full safety briefing and have a life jacket when joining any boat.
\n\nConsider safety standards carefully before taking an overnight boat trip on Halong Bay. Overcrowding and poor safety standards have led to accidents in past years. Some boats have sunk quickly and without warning.
\n\nPiracy in coastal areas of Vietnam is very rare. See piracy and armed robbery at sea for precautions you could take.
\n\nLandmines and other unexploded weapons are a hazard in former battlefields. Areas of particular risk include central Vietnam and along the Laos border, formerly crossed by the Ho Chi Minh Trail. Mined areas are often unmarked.
\n\nFind out what you can do to prepare for and respond to extreme weather and natural hazards.
\n\nTropical cyclones affect the eastern coastal regions of Vietnam, with a risk of:
\n\nThe season normally runs from May to November, but tropical cyclones can happen at other times. Monitor approaching storms on the National Centre for Hydro-Meteorological Forecasting and Japan Meteorological Agency websites. Follow the advice of the local authorities, including any evacuation orders.
\n\nIf you decide to travel to Vietnam during this period:
\n\nThe rain season extends:
\n\nSeasonal flooding occurs in October and November in central Vietnam. It is also common:
\n\nSeasonal flooding can disrupt overland travel and reduce the availability of essential services. Roads may become blocked due to mudslides and landslides. Bridges, buildings, and infrastructure may be damaged.
\n\nCheck the Mekong Flood and Drought Forecasting and the Mekong River Commission Forecasting and the National Center for Hydro-Meteorological Forecasting.
\n\nHumid and heat may be severe, particularly during the rainy season. Know the symptoms of dehydration and heatstroke, both of which can be fatal.
\n\n","slug":"safety-and-security","title":"Safety and security"},{"body":"Before you travel check that:
\n\nThis is particularly important if you have a health condition or are pregnant.
\n\nMake sure your policy covers the following:
\n\nThe British Embassy do not pay medical bills and cannot provide medical assistance.
\n\nDial 115 and ask for an ambulance.
\n\nContact your insurance company quickly if you’re referred to a medical facility for treatment.
\n\nAt least 8 weeks before your trip check:
\n\nSee what health risks you’ll face in Vietnam, including:
\n\nAltitude sickness is a risk in parts of Vietnam. Read more about altitude sickness on TravelHealthPro.
\n\nSome medicines can be hard to find in Vietnam and many are fake.
\n\nThe legal status and regulation of some medicines prescribed or bought in the UK can be different in other countries.
\n\nRead best practice when travelling with medicines on TravelHealthPro.
\n\nVietnam has restrictions on medicines it classifies as ‘addictive’ or ‘psychotropic’. These include medicine used to treat of addiction, anxiety, depression, insomnia and other conditions.
\n\nIt is illegal to have more than 7 days of prescribed medicine by a doctor (addictive and psychotropic medicine). You should carry the prescription with your medication and a letter from your doctor stating how much of the medication you need during your trip.
\n\nThe letter can be in English and should:
\n\nIf you’re unsure if your medication falls within these categories or you need to bring more medication than is usually allowed, contact the Vietnamese Embassy in the UK before travelling.
\n\nFCDO has a list of medical providers in Vietnam where some staff will speak English.
\n\nThere is also guidance on healthcare if you’re living in Vietnam.
\n\nVietnam has no Mental Health Act and as such support is very limited for foreign nationals.
\n\nRead FCDO guidance on travel and mental health. There is also mental health guidance on TravelHealthPro.
\n\n","slug":"health","title":"Health"},{"body":"The Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) cannot provide tailored advice for individual trips. Read this travel advice and carry out your own research before deciding whether to travel.
\n\nAmbulance: 115
\n\nFire: 114
\n\nPolice: 113
\n\nNational search and rescue: 112
\n\nHotline for child protection: 111
\n\nEmergency numbers in Vietnam are operated in Vietnamese only.
\n\nTake a translator with you when you report a crime to the local police. Always get a police report when you report a crime.
\n\nContact your travel provider and your insurer if you are involved in a serious incident or emergency abroad. They will tell you if they can help and what you need to do. Inform a friend or family member about your insurance provider and policy number should they need to act on your behalf.
\n\nFor refunds or changes to travel, contact your travel provider. You may also be able to make a claim through insurance. However, insurers usually require you to talk to your travel provider first.
\n\nFind out more about changing or cancelling travel plans, including:
\n\nFCDO has guidance on staying safe and what to do if you need help or support abroad, including:
\n\nSee how to get help from the UK government abroad including in an emergency.
\n\nYou can call FCDO in London if you need urgent help because something has happened to a friend or relative abroad.
\n\nTelephone: 020 7008 5000 (24 hours)
\n\n\n\nSign up to get email notifications when this travel advice is updated.
\n\nFollow FCDO:
\n\nThe Overseas Business Risk service offers information and advice for British companies operating in Vietnam on how to manage political, economic, and business security-related risks.
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