Viet Nam

Source: New Zealand Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade – Safe Travel

If you are planning international travel at this time, please read our COVID-19 related travel advice here, alongside our destination specific travel advice below.

Exercise increased caution in Viet Nam (level 2 of 4).

Viet Nam

Crime
There is a risk of petty crime against foreign tourists, particularly in public places and in larger cities. Bag slashing can occur in crowded areas such as markets, trains, buses and supermarkets as well as snatch and grab theft from thieves, including those on motorcycles, which can result in injury. Tourists have been robbed after withdrawing money from ATMs. To reduce the risk of this occurring we recommend you use ATMs located inside banks and shopping centres. When walking in public areas and travelling on public transport we recommend that you pay close attention to your personal belongings, and make sure they are secure at all times. 

There have been incidents of drink spiking followed by robbery and sexual assault reported in Vietnam. Extra care should be taken to ensure your food and drink is never left unattended. We recommend against accepting drinks from strangers or recent acquaintances.

Sexual assault and harrassment, including inappropriate touching and groping, does occur. You should take sensible precautions. Avoiding walking alone, especially at night.

There have been reports of personal or commercial disputes occassionally leading to threats of violence. If you are threatened with violence, report it to the local police.

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
Road safety is a significant concern in Viet Nam. Traffic accidents occur frequently, often causing death or serious injury. Motorcycle riders and pedestrians are common victims. Consider carefully the safety standards of any vehicle and any accompanying equipment, such as helmets, you may hire. 

Roads are often in a bad state of repair and driving conditions are chaotic.  Pedestrians are at particular risk since sidewalks are often not usable and people have to walk right along the roadside. Visitors should take only genuine taxis with meters, and ride-hailing services like Grab which is considered generally reliable and safe.  Many unofficial taxis are in poor condition and do not have seatbelts.     

Maritime safety has been a concern, including 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.

Be aware that there are only basic medical services outside of the main cities in Viet Nam. You may need medical evacuation to a major centre, even for minor operations. 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

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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