Safety
- Road traffic accidents are a leading cause of injury. On the road, stay alert at all times.
- Petty theft, such as bag slashing, is common in tourist areas and crowded places, particularly during the holidays. Snatch-and-grab theft by motorcycle thieves is also common. Hold your bags and backpacks in front of you or on the opposite side of the road to make them more difficult to steal. As you walk, keep an eye out for approaching motorcycles. Carry as few valuables as possible. Prepare to give up your valuables rather than risk being hurt in a fight.
- There are cases of aggravated theft, sexual assault, and assault. Travelers have been assaulted after their food or beverages were spiked. Keep an eye on how your drinks are being mixed. If you suspect drink spiking, seek immediate medical attention.
- Personal or commercial disagreements can sometimes escalate into threats of physical violence or death. Establish a clear understanding of the expected level of service. Any threats should be reported to the police.
- Travelers have been robbed while using ATMs to withdraw money. Credit and debit card fraud, as well as card skimming, occur throughout Vietnam. Scams involving taxis and gambling are also common. Use ATMs only in banks and shopping malls. Keep your credit card close at hand at all times. Use authorized or prearranged taxis, particularly at airports. Report gambling scams to the authorities.
- Floods, typhoons, and severe weather can disrupt essential services during the rainy season (June to November). Follow the advice of local authorities.
Healthy
- COVID-19 is still a threat in Vietnam. Restrictions are in place to prevent the virus from spreading.
- Dengue fever, Japanese encephalitis, malaria, and the Zika virus are all threats spread by insects. If you are pregnant, consult your doctor about your travel plans. Apply insect repellent. Before you travel, get vaccinated. Take anti-malarial medication if necessary.
- Rabies is present in Vietnam, particularly in the north. It is fatal if not treated. If you are bitten or scratched by an animal, seek medical attention right away.
- HIV/AIDS is a threat. If you are participating in high-risk activities, take precautions.
- Diphtheria is a risk. Make sure your vaccinations are up to date.
- Hand, foot, and mouth disease (HFMD) are common. It primarily affects children and young adults. Foodborne, waterborne, parasitic, and other infectious diseases include cholera, hepatitis, and typhoid. Wash your hands frequently and thoroughly. Drink only boiled or bottled water. Avoid eating raw or undercooked food.
Local Laws
- A variety of COVID-19 containment measures are in place. For positive cases, measures may include movement restrictions and mandatory isolation. These measures may differ from one province to the next. Take the advice of the local authorities. If you do not, you may be fined or detained.
- Use or possess illegal drugs, including marijuana. The death penalty and life imprisonment are among the penalties for drug offenses. Never transport packages or luggage for others.
- Get professional legal advice before signing any contract. If you're in a business or civil dispute, officials could stop you from leaving Vietnam until it’s resolved.
- It's illegal to gamble in a non-government licensed casino or possess pornography. Non-state sanctioned political or religious activity or material, or involvement with groups perceived by the Government of Vietnam to be associated with dissident groups, is also illegal.
- It’s illegal to export antiques without a permit. Get a permit from the Ministry of Culture, Sports, and Tourism (Vietnamese). It’s illegal to photograph border areas or military sites. Be careful when taking photos.
- Vietnam recognizes dual nationality in limited situations. If you're a dual national, travel on your Australian passport. You may need to do compulsory military service. Contact your nearest Vietnamese embassy or consulate for details.
