Traveling From India to Vietnam in 2022: What You Need to Know

After several years of pandemic restrictions, Vietnam removed many of its travel restrictions on March 15, 2022. Thanks to these changes, visitors can travel from India to Vietnam for vacations, business trips, and other purposes. While COVID-19 restrictions have been lifted, there are still some movement restrictions and quarantine rules.

Before you travel, you should plan ahead for transportation. Additionally, you should be aware of local rules about things like masking. With a bit of foresight, you can enjoy a relaxing experience in one of Asia’s most beautiful countries.

Entering Vietnam and Reentering India

When traveling from India to Vietnam, there are no longer any requirements for COVID-19 testing. Because COVID-19 is still a problem around the world, the Vietnamese government recommends getting travel insurance coverage for COVID-19. Additionally, your travel or medical insurance should cover US$10,000 in liability.

In addition to loosening rules about COVID-19 testing, you no longer have to file a medical declaration before flying to Vietnam. There are local restrictions in place. For instance, you are expected to wear a mask in public areas, or you will have to pay a fine.

When you return from your trip from India to Vietnam, you will need to fulfill certain travel rules and restrictions. For instance, the government of India currently requires returning travelers to fill out a self-declaration form on the Air Suvidha portal. You must include all of your travel destinations for the 14 days prior to your return.

On return to India, you must take a polymerase chain reaction (PCR) test with a negative test result within 72 hours of your flight departure. If you want to avoid this PCR requirement, you must show a vaccination certificate from receiving all of your COVID-19 vaccinations.

Once you get off the plane in India, you will go through mandatory screening. If you have any COVID-19 symptoms, you will be isolated and brought to a medical facility. India also screens 2 percent of passengers at random, so you may be required to submit to taking an additional COVID-19 test before you leave the airport.

You are expected to monitor your health for 14 days after returning to India. If you notice any COVID-19 symptoms, you must self-isolate.

Getting PCR Tests in Vietnam

When traveling from India to Vietnam, you aren’t required to get a PCR test. However, you are required to undergo PCR tests on your return trip if you are unvaccinated. Whether you need it for traveling home or because you are feeling under the weather, there are many PCR testing options available throughout Vietnam, and most locations have a turnaround time of just 24 hours.

How COVID-19 Treatment and Quarantine Work in Vietnam

Many public medical centers won’t treat international patients, so you should start by visiting international or private hospitals first. If you test positive, you are required to quarantine for 5 to 10 days based on your vaccination status. Because local areas have their own rules, you should always check the quarantine regulations in your area.

Transportation Options in Vietnam

Air India, Vistara, GoAir, SpiceJet, and IndiGo all travel from India to Vietnam, but they don’t offer direct flights. Recently, Vietnam Airlines began operating direct flights between the two countries. Once you are in Vietnam, all public transportation options are operating like normal.

Movement Restrictions in Vietnam

While there are no movement restrictions in effect right now, it is always important to check local restrictions before your flight leaves.

Fines for Non-Compliance With COVID-19 Restrictions

The Vietnamese government has personal protective measures in place to stop the spread of COVID-19. If you don’t follow these rules, you can face fines ranging from VNĐ3 million (US$132) to more than VNĐ20 million (US$876). In addition, serious infractions, like escaping from quarantine, can lead to multiple years in prison.

Consular Options for Indians

If you need help while traveling, you can access the Consulate General of India in Ho Chi Minh City. The Embassy of the Republic of India is located in Hanoi. Both locations are currently open without any restrictions.