Source: New Zealand Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade – Safe Travel
- Reviewed: 14 December 2021, 16:45 NZDT
- Still current at: 14 December 2021
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We currently advise that all New Zealanders do not travel overseas at this time due to the COVID-19 pandemic, associated health risks and widespread travel restrictions.
The global situation remains complex. International travel can be complicated with fewer international flights available and disruptions to transit routes and hubs. Any destination could experience a sudden increase in cases of COVID-19 and a heightened risk to travellers of contracting the virus. Strict health measures and movement restrictions could be imposed suddenly, particularly in response to new variants of concern. Should you decide to travel overseas at this time, be prepared to remain overseas longer than you intended. You should also be aware that your travel insurance may not cover travel disruption or medical expenses. Talk to your insurer about how sudden changes to the international travel environment might affect your insurance.
Managed Isolation and Quarantine in New Zealand
Travellers to New Zealand may be required to enter government-provided managed isolation and quarantine (MIQ). The length of your stay in MIQ may depend on where you are travelling from. Detailed information about MIQ requirements in New Zealand can be found at www.miq.govt.nz.
Pre-departure testing requirements for travellers to New Zealand
Most travellers must have a negative pre-departure test result and approved documentation to enter New Zealand. Detailed information about pre-departure testing requirements can be found on the Unite Against COVID-19 website here.
We recognise that some New Zealanders do continue to live and travel overseas. We continue to provide destination-specific advice about other safety and security risks below.
Viet Nam
Civil unrest
Political dissent is rare in Viet Nam and protests are generally not tolerated. We recommend you avoid any protests and demonstrations. Follow any instructions issued by the local authorities. Photography of the military, police or demonstrations is prohibited, and could result in detention.
Landmines
There is a danger from unexploded landmines in former battlefields, particularly in central Viet Nam and along the Laos border. Mined areas may be unmarked. New Zealanders are advised not to stray off well used roads and paths in rural areas.
Scams
There have been reports of taxi scams involving foreigners, upon arrival at airports. Travellers are advised to take airport taxis, prearranged hotel transfer services or taxis from clearly marked ranks with minders. If you pre-book a taxi, make sure that any person holding a placard with your name on it knows your destination, and that the details of the vehicle and driver match those provided by the company.
Commercial scams also occur in Viet Nam, offers that seem too good to be true may be a scam. For further information see our advice on Internet Fraud and International Scams.
Transport safety
Maritime safety has been a concern, particularly in Ha Long Bay. Accidents on waterways occur, and there have been a number of fatalities in recent years from vessels sinking or catching fire. Consider carefully the safety standards of boat/tour operators.
General travel advice
Some border areas are sensitive and travelling through them is restricted. Check before travelling that you can access your route.
Penalties for possession, use or trafficking of illegal drugs are severe and can include lengthy imprisonment.
We advise carrying a photocopy of the biodata page from your passport for identification and leaving your passport in a safe place such as your hotel safe.
New Zealanders travelling or living in Viet Nam should have a comprehensive travel insurance policy in place that includes provision for high risk adventure activities and medical evacuation by air.
New Zealanders in Viet Nam are encouraged to register their details with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade.
Travel tips
The New Zealand Embassy Ha Noi, Viet Nam
Street Address Level 5, 63 Ly Thai To Street, Ha Noi, Viet Nam Telephone +84 24 3824 1481 Fax +84 24 3824 1480 Email nzembassy.hanoi@mft.net.nz Web Site http://www.mfat.govt.nz/viet-nam Hours Mon – Fri 0830 – 1200, 1300 – 1700 hrs
New Zealand Consulate-General Ho Chi Minh City , Viet Nam
Street Address Suite 804, Level 8, The Metropolitan, 235 Dong Khoi Street, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City, Viet Nam Telephone +84 901 80 7770 Fax +84 28 3822 6905 Email nzconsulate.hcmc@nzte.govt.nz Hours Mon – Fri 0830 – 1130, 1300 – 1700hrs
See our regional advice for South East Asia
