Table of Contents
Guidance on personal safety, traffic navigation, and emergency procedures for visitors to Vietnam.
Personal Safety and Security
Violent crime against foreigners is rare in Vietnam. However, petty crime such as bag snatching and pickpocketing occurs, particularly in major urban centers such as Ho Chi Minh City and Hanoi.
To minimize risk:
- Securely fasten bags across the body rather than over one shoulder.
- Avoid using mobile phones near the edge of the road to prevent drive-by snatching.
- Store passports, excess cash, and valuables in hotel safes.
In the event of a lost passport, you must report to the local police immediately, contact your embassy, and apply for a replacement passport and an exit visa. This process will delay your travel plans.
Entry Requirements and eVisa Verification
Before traveling, ensure your immigration documents are in order. The Vietnam eVisa is available to all nationalities and permits a stay of up to 90 days.
- Fees: The official fee is $25 for a single-entry visa and $50 for a multiple-entry visa.
- Application: Applications must be submitted exclusively through the National Web Portal on Immigration.
- Entry Points: The eVisa is valid for entry at 83 designated international ports.
Verify your documents early. You can apply for a Vietnam eVisa or check requirements to avoid border complications.
Traffic Safety
Traffic in Vietnam is heavily congested with motorcycles. Pedestrians should exercise extreme caution when crossing streets.
- Proceed at a slow, predictable pace.
- Do not make sudden movements or step backward.
- Maintain visibility with approaching drivers.
Tourists intending to operate a motorcycle must possess a valid International Driving Permit (IDP) alongside their national motorcycle license. Enforcement of traffic regulations, including mandatory helmet use and zero-tolerance alcohol limits, is strictly applied.
Transportation and Taxi Services
To avoid overcharging, utilize established ride-hailing applications such as Grab, Be, or Xanh SM (electric vehicles) which provide transparent, pre-calculated fares. If using a street taxi, select authorized operators such as Vinasun or Mai Linh. Disregard unsolicited transport offers at airport terminals; proceed directly to official taxi ranks or use authorized applications.
Food and Water Safety
To mitigate the risk of foodborne illness:
- Consume food from establishments with high patron turnover.
- Do not consume tap water. Use bottled or purified water, including for oral hygiene.
- Manufactured cylindrical ice with a central hole is generally produced in regulated facilities and is considered safer for consumption.