Vietnam is set to welcome tourists back, aiming for late March as the reopening date.

Thrill-seeking travelers are in for good news as Vietnam revealed plans to completely reopen its borders to international tourists, targeting the end of March or, at the latest, the end of April.

These remarks came from Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh, who is guiding the nation out of one of Southeast Asia's strictest zero-tolerance COVID-19 policies.

"We might encounter a resurgence of omicron and potentially other new variants," he stated at the end of January. "Yet, with increased vaccination rates and additional measures, we can safely reopen the country for economic recovery and growth."

Since spring 2020, Vietnam has been cautiously moving towards reopening its borders to travelers, having been largely closed off from the rest of the world.

The process began in November, permitting visitors on package tours to the island of Phu Quoc, as well as Da Nang, Hoi An, Nha Trang, and other regions of the country. In January, more destinations were included.

However, this has not drawn the number of tourists necessary for Vietnam's struggling tourism sector to recover from the devastating effects of the pandemic.

What are the current travel restrictions in Vietnam?

Since spring 2020, Vietnam has been largely closed off to foreign tourists, having halted visa waivers, visa issuance, and entry for most foreign nationals, irrespective of their vaccination status. Only those with specific reasons, such as diplomats and individuals on special business, have been permitted entry.

A limited number of tourists can enter the country, but they must join one of the state-approved tour groups that visit destinations sanctioned by the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism.

"Upon entering Vietnam, you must undergo a quarantine period in a designated hotel or an approved residence for three days," states the FCO website. "A PCR test will be required on the third day, and you should monitor your health until day 14. You will be responsible for any hotel fees and the costs associated with COVID-19 testing."

When will the entry policy be updated, and what changes can we expect?

The Ministry of Tourism has announced its intention to reopen borders to tourists by March 31 at the earliest.

Vietnam has agreed to temporarily accept COVID-19 vaccine passports from 72 countries, including the U.K., to facilitate a smoother transition back to regular travel.

What are the current vaccination requirements for travelers?

According to the ministry, you must either be fully vaccinated or provide proof of a recent recovery from COVID-19.

Additionally, you will need to show a negative PCR test taken within 72 hours prior to arrival, along with evidence of medical insurance coverage for COVID-19 treatment amounting to £37,000 (approximately $50,000).