Orientation briefing in Viet Nam

Vietnam's early history included periods of occupation by outside forces and eventual power consolidation under Vietnamese dynastic families. A succession of Han Chinese emperors ruled the area, which was centered on the Red River Valley, until approximately the 10th century. The Ly Dynasty (11th-13th century) created the first independent Vietnamese state, which was known as Dai Viet, and established their capital at Thang Long (Hanoi). Under the Tran Dynasty (13th-15th century), TRAN Hung Dao, one of Vietnam’s national heroes, led Dai Viet forces to fight off Mongol invaders in 1279. After a brief Chinese occupation in the early 1400s, Vietnamese resistance leader LE Thai To made himself emperor and established the Le Dynasty, which lasted until the late 18th century despite decades of political turmoil, civil war, and division. During this period, Dai Viet expanded southward to the Central Highlands and Mekong Delta, reaching the approximate boundaries of modern-day Vietnam by the 1750s. Dai Viet suffered additional civil war and division in the latter half of the 18th century, but it was reunited and renamed Vietnam under Emperor NGUYEN Phuc Anh (aka Gia Long) in 1802.

France began its conquest of Vietnam in 1858 and made Vietnam part of French Indochina in 1887. Vietnam declared independence after World War II, but the French continued to rule until communist forces under Ho Chi MINH defeated them in 1954. Under the Geneva Accords of 1954, Vietnam was divided into the communist North and anti-communist South. Fighting erupted between the two governments shortly afterwards with the North supporting communist rebels in the South and eventually committing thousands of combat troops. The US provided to the South significant economic and military assistance, including large numbers of US military forces, which reached a peak strength of over 500,000 troops in 1968. US combat forces were withdrawn following a cease-fire agreement in 1973. Two years later, North Vietnamese forces overran the South, reuniting the country under communist rule. The conflict, known as the Second Indochina War (1955-1975), devastated Vietnam, spilled over into the neighboring countries of Cambodia and Laos, and is estimated to have resulted in the deaths of up to 3 million Vietnamese civilians and soldiers. It also caused more than 58,000 US combat and non-combat deaths and created deep domestic divisions in the US. 

Despite the return of peace, the country experienced little economic growth for over a decade because of its diplomatic isolation, leadership policies, and the persecution and mass exodus of citizens, many of them successful South Vietnamese merchants. However, since the enactment of Vietnam's "doi moi" (renovation) policy in 1986, the economy has seen strong growth, particularly in agricultural and industrial production, construction, exports, foreign investment, and tourism. Nevertheless, the Communist Party maintains tight political and social control of the country, and Vietnam faces many related challenges, such as rising income inequality and corruption.

Vietnam has a single-party political system, which does not welcome people disagreeing with the government. Some protests in recent years have turned violent or been violently suppressed by the authorities. Avoid all protests.

Tropical storm season

The tropical storm season runs from May to November. Tropical storms can cause serious travel disruption. Follow and monitor local and international weather updates from the National Centre for Hydro-Meteorological Forecasting and Japan Meteorological Agency and follow the advice of local authorities.

See Extreme weather and natural disasters.

For more regular updates, English-news versions of local newspapers are available at VNexpress and Vietnam News

Global travel impacts due to escalation in the Middle East

Escalation in the Middle East has caused widespread travel disruption, including airspace closures, delayed and cancelled flights.

Your travel plans may be affected, even if your destination is not in the Middle East. Before you travel: 

• check travel advice for any countries or territories you are transiting through
• check for the latest updates from your airline or tour operator
• review your travel insurance policy for coverage
• monitor local and international media for the latest information and sign up for travel advice email alerts
• be mindful of your permitted length of stay in Vietnam

Before you travel

No travel can be guaranteed safe. Read all the advice in this guide. You may also find it helpful to: 

• see general advice for women travellers
• read our guide on disability and travel abroad
• see [general advice for LGBT+ travellers (https://www.gov.uk/guidance/lesbian-gay-bisexual-and-transgender-foreign-travel-advice)
• read about safety for solo and independent travel
• see advice on volunteering and adventure travel abroad

Travel insurance

If you choose to travel, research your destinations and get appropriate travel insurance. Insurance should cover your itinerary, planned activities and expenses in an emergency.

About FCDO travel advice

The Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) provides advice about risks of travel to help you make informed decisions. Find out more about FCDO travel advice.

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Terrorism

There is a high threat of terrorist attack globally affecting UK interests and British nationals, including from groups and individuals who view the UK and British nationals as targets. Stay aware of your surroundings at all times.   

UK Counter Terrorism Policing has information and advice on staying safe and what to do in the event of a terrorist attack. Find out how to reduce your risk from terrorism while abroad.

Terrorism in Vietnam

Although there is no recent history of terrorism in Vietnam, attacks cannot be ruled out. 

Attacks could be indiscriminate including in places visited by foreign nationals. Stay aware of your surroundings, keep up to date with local media reports and follow the advice of local authorities.

Political situation

Vietnam has a single-party political system, which does not welcome people disagreeing with the government. Some protests in recent years have turned violent or been violently suppressed by the authorities. Avoid all protests.

Internet censorship

Within the Vietnamese territory, local authorities can block access to: 

• websites 
• social Media

You should not expect internet privacy. Local authorities can review the content stored or consulted on your electronic devices.

Freedom of expression

British nationals should be cautious of political activities, including criticising the government or its domestic and foreign policies or advocating alternatives to Communist Party rule. Possession of political material, and non-sanctioned religious activities including proselytising could lead to a temporary ban on leaving the country, a prison sentence, or a full travel ban.  

British nationals of Vietnamese descent should be especially careful with their online postings.

Civil unrest

Political dissent is rare in Vietnam and protests are generally not tolerated. You should avoid any protests or demonstrations. Follow any instructions issued by authorities.

Crime

Protecting yourself and your belongings

Violent crime against foreigners is rare, however petty crimes such as theft and pickpocketing occur regularly. Bag-snatchers operate in crowded areas and in places visited by tourists. Typically, there is a rise in petty crime during the Christmas and Tet Lunar New Year seasons.

Bag-snatching by thieves on motorcycles is common, hold bags in front of you or on the opposite side of the traffic to make them difficult to steal. Be aware of motorcycles approaching as you walk. Be prepared to surrender your valuables rather than risk being injured in a struggle.

There is a risk of petty theft on buses and trains, particularly while asleep on overnight trains.

Do not give your passport to others as a guarantee – for example, to motorcycle rental shops or landlords. They can hold your passport against claimed damage.

Keep your passport safe and other valuables in your hotel or in another secured location at all times and carry both photo and digital copies of your passport. You should immediately report a lost or stolen passport to the  British Embassy in Hanoi or Consulate General in Ho Chi Minh City.

Drink spiking and sexual assault

British nationals have reported rape and sexual assaults in the main tourist areas and places where foreigners live, often committed by or linked to unlicenced taxi drivers. Women have also reported indecent assaults and harassment. These include inappropriate touching and groping, particularly while walking alone.

To reduce your personal risk:

• buy your own drinks and keep them in sight to avoid them being spiked
• be wary of accepting snacks, beverages and gum from strangers and new acquaintances. These items may contain drugs that could put you at risk
• use pre-arranged transport or official taxi hailing apps, such as Grab or XanhSM, which supply licenced cabs. Be wary of scammers who claim to be from these companies and always book your full journey on the app
• save the location of your accommodation on a map app (such as Google Maps), so that it is easier to find at the end of the night
• set up a WhatsApp group to keep in contact with others in your group
• report anything that does not feel right to the management of local bars, restaurants, hotels or hostels

In Vietnam there is a higher burden of proof for victims than in the UK. Victims must show they did not consent, particularly if they drank alcohol or knew the alleged attacker.

If you are a victim of a sexual assault, you can reach out to the British Embassy in Hanoi or Consulate General in Ho Chi Minh City. Consular staff can assist you in reporting an incident to local authorities, if you would like to do so.  Read FCDO’s information pack relating to rape and sexual assaults in Vietnam for more advice.

Methanol poisoning

There have been deaths and cases of serious illness caused by alcoholic drinks containing methanol in Vietnam.

Methanol poisoning cases have resulted from drinks purchased in licensed bars, shops and hotels in tourist areas. Even small amounts of methanol can kill. It is not possible to identify methanol in alcoholic drinks by taste or smell. See Travel Aware Drink Spiking and Methanol Poisoning for information about how to reduce the risks.

Seek urgent medical attention if you or someone you are travelling with show the signs of methanol poisoning after drinking.

Job scams

Be wary of job offers that appear too good to be true. People have arrived in the Mekong region and have been illegally transported to neighbouring countries on the promise of high-paying jobs, which turn out to be scams.

There have been incidents of:

• passports being confiscated by scammers
• victims being held in poor living conditions
• coercion into undertaking wider online scamming activity

Before signing an employment contract or travelling to Vietnam for work, verify the true nature of the work you’re offered.  

Check for:

• unacceptable employment conditions 
• the correct visa and work permits
• living arrangements your potential employer has offered
• professional legal advice before signing any contract

Never hand over your passport to your employer, even for safekeeping. Reputable businesses will never ask you to hand over your passport.

Transfers from airports and stations

Be cautious about offers of free bus transfers to hotels, unless organised in advance. These may be scams.  

Laws and cultural differences

Personal ID

You must always carry photographic ID. The authorities will accept a printed copy of the photo page of your passport and visa.

Illegal drugs penalties

Penalties for possessing, using, distributing or manufacturing drugs, including cannabis, regardless of the amount involved, are severe. You should expect a long jail sentence and heavy fines for possessing, using or smuggling illegal drugs, including when transiting through the airport.

Airports in Vietnam have excellent technology and security for detecting illegal items. This is also used to scan the baggage of transiting passengers.

The death penalty may also be imposed depending on the severity of the crime. Police periodically raid nightlife establishments suspected of engaging in the drug trade. You may be required to submit to drug testing if present during these raids.

Police will also routinely conduct drug testing at private residences or parties when responding to a reported disturbance. A positive result, regardless of whether drugs were consumed in Vietnam or before entry, may result in criminal charges.

Illegal drugs are often tampered with or spiked and can be much stronger than in Europe. British nationals in Vietnam have suffered severe psychiatric problems because of drug use. 

Recreational drugs available in Vietnam can be extremely dangerous and can result in death. Drugs sold in Vietnam may be fake, synthetic, or laced with toxic ingredients undetectable to the buyer. This includes nitrous oxide balloons widely available in nightlife establishments.

It is important to be aware of your rights if you are detained by the police. See our guidance for those detained or imprisoned in Vietnam.

Cigarettes and alcohol from street vendors 

You should avoid purchasing liquor or cigarettes from street vendors or strangers, as the authenticity cannot be assured.

Vapes and related products are banned. You cannot buy vapes in Vietnam or bring them into the country.

LGBT+ travellers

Vietnam is a generally tolerant and progressive place for LGBT+ travellers. There are no criminal penalties for same-sex sexual activity or changing gender. Same-sex marriage is not recognised in law.

Read more advice for LGBT+ travellers.

Dress code

Respect local customs and dress in appropriate clothing when entering religious or cultural sites. This usually means covering your shoulders and knees. You’ll often see signs outside religious or cultural sites that tell you the dress code.

Money change counters

Only change money at official money exchange counters with a clear sign showing this status. Changing money elsewhere is illegal and you risk losing your money.

Wildlife, animal products and souvenirs

It’s illegal to buy, sell, kill or collect protected wild animal or plants. If you’re caught buying or trafficking these items, you could get a fine or long prison sentence.

Restricted areas

There are restrictions on travel near military bases in Vietnam. Do not take photos near bases.

If you want to visit a village, commune or ward close to the border, you may need permission from the provincial police department. Contact the local authority for more information.

Check with local authorities before visiting border areas to see if you need to obtain a travel permit issued by local authorities. These areas are not always marked, and there are no warnings about prohibited travel.

Legal system

People convicted of sex and drug offences can receive very long prison sentences or the death sentence. Even minor crimes, such as theft, have the possibility of carrying a prison sentence. The Vietnamese legal system operates differently from the UK, and the standard of prisons is very poor.

If you are under criminal investigation, you can be detained for long periods without evidence or official charges. There can be long delays before you can contact lawyers, British Embassy officials or family. Legal representation is far below UK standards.

Foreign nationals involved in traffic accidents have been stopped from leaving Vietnam until the police have completed their investigations. This process can take a long time, and foreign nationals have been asked to agree out of court financial settlements. FCDO advises you to get professional legal advice and representation if you are in this situation. See Getting help.

Internet access

There are sometimes restrictions on internet use, which can temporarily affect access to social media websites. Most social media sites are normally available.

Outdoor activities and adventure tourism

Transport and tour operators’ safety and maintenance standards may not meet the standards you find in the UK. British nationals have died or been injured in Vietnam while engaged in adventure tourism in rural and mountainous areas.

Risks include:

• dangerous terrain
• remote areas that are difficult for rescue services to reach
• flooding, swollen rivers and landslides, especially during the rainy season
• lower safety standards than in the UK

To reduce your personal risk:

• follow safety guidelines and always use availably safety gear provided
• stay on main routes
• take a reputable guide – in some places it is illegal to go without a guide
• use approved adventure tourism companies – check local authority websites
• avoid  using facilities or equipment if you have doubts about their safety
• check weather forecasts
• make sure your travel insurance covers your planned activity
• inform a friend or family member of your itinerary

Illegal tour guides have been known to offer tours and activities prohibited under local regulations.

Firearms activities

If you take part in leisure activities involving firearms, make sure a reputable guide supervises you. There is a risk of hearing loss.

Transport risks

Road travel

If you are planning to drive in Vietnam, see information on driving abroad and driving rules in Vietnam.

You’ll need to have both the 1968 version of the international driving permit and your UK driving licence with you whilst driving a car or motorbike in Vietnam. It is illegal to drive without third-party insurance.

Do not use your passport as a deposit for hiring vehicles or as a guarantee you will pay a fine for a traffic offence.

Drink-driving is a serious offence in Vietnam. If you are tested and found to have any alcohol in your system, you may get a fine and possible imprisonment.

Compliance with road laws is poor – keep your speed down and stay alert.

If you’re involved in an accident, you could face criminal charges and may need to pay compensation to injured people, even if the injuries are minor. There is also the possibility of a travel ban while the investigation is carried out. Offer the police your full co-operation and inform the British Embassy in Hanoi or Consulate General in Ho Chi Minh City.

Motorbike safety

Travelling by motorbike in Vietnam is much riskier than in the UK. Motorbike accidents are common and have killed and injured British nationals.

Do not hire a motorbike if you’re not an experienced rider. Always:

• check your motorbike thoroughly
• rent from a reputable organisation
• use a good helmet – it is illegal for drivers and passengers to ride without a helmet

Make sure your travel insurance covers your planned activity.

Taxis

Metered taxis from larger firms are generally reliable. Where possible get hotels or restaurants to book you a reputable taxi. Always make sure the driver identifies themself before setting off. If you book taxis using the Grab app, which is similar to Uber – you can make sure the details of the vehicle and driver match those given by the company.

Buses and coaches

Bus and coach crashes are not uncommon and are more likely at night. Vehicles are often poorly maintained. Night bus drivers may become tired but continue driving, resulting in sometimes fatal crashes.

Sea travel

Check with your tour guide about the safety record and registration of boats, and the certification of staff. Make sure you get a full safety briefing and have a life jacket when joining any boat. 

Consider safety standards carefully before taking an overnight boat trip on Halong Bay. Overcrowding and poor safety standards have led to accidents in past years. Some boats have sunk quickly and without warning.

Piracy in coastal areas of Vietnam is very rare. See piracy and armed robbery at sea for precautions you could take.

Landmines and unexploded weapons

Landmines and other unexploded weapons are a hazard in former battlefields. Areas of particular risk include central Vietnam and along the Laos border, formerly crossed by the Ho Chi Minh Trail. Mined areas are often unmarked.

Extreme weather and natural disasters

Find out what you can do to prepare for and respond to extreme weather and natural hazards.

Tropical cyclones

Tropical cyclones affect the eastern coastal regions of Vietnam, with a risk of:

• strong winds
• heavy rainfall and flooding
• disruption to transport

The season normally runs from May to November, but tropical cyclones can happen at other times. Monitor approaching storms on the National Centre for Hydro-Meteorological Forecasting and Japan Meteorological Agency websites. Follow the advice of the local authorities, including any evacuation orders.

If you decide to travel to Vietnam during this period: 

• know that you may expose yourself to serious safety risks 
• be prepared to change your travel plans on short notice 
• stay informed of the latest regional weather forecasts 
• carry emergency contact information for your airline, tour operator and insurer 
• follow the advice of the local authorities, including any evacuation orders

Rain season

The rain season extends: 

• from June to September in the north and south 
• from October to December in central Vietnam

Seasonal flooding occurs in October and November in central Vietnam. It is also common:

• in and around Hanoi, particularly along the Red River 
• in the Mekong River Delta regions in the south

Seasonal flooding can disrupt overland travel and reduce the availability  of essential services. Roads may become blocked due to mudslides and landslides. Bridges, buildings, and infrastructure may be damaged.

• remain vigilant, especially in areas around major rivers 
• stay away from flooded areas 
• monitor weather reports
• monitor local media for the latest updates, including those on road conditions 
• follow the instructions of local authorities, including evacuation orders

Check the Mekong Flood and Drought Forecasting and the Mekong River Commission Forecasting and the National Center for Hydro-Meteorological Forecasting.

Heat waves

Humid and heat may be severe, particularly during the rainy season. Know the symptoms of dehydration and heatstroke, both of which can be fatal.

Before you travel check that:

• your destination can provide the healthcare you may need
• you have appropriate travel insurance for local treatment or unexpected medical evacuation

This is particularly important if you have a health condition or are pregnant.

Make sure your policy covers the following: 

• existing health conditions  
• an air ambulance, in case you need to be flown home by this means 
• full medical cover (medical bills can be expensive) 
• repatriation of your remains in the event of death 
• repatriation of your family in the event it is necessary for you to return home due to illness or injury

The British Embassy do not pay medical bills and cannot provide medical assistance.

Emergency medical number

Dial 115 and ask for an ambulance.

Contact your insurance company quickly if you’re referred to a medical facility for treatment.

Vaccine recommendations and health risks 

At least 8 weeks before your trip check:

• the latest vaccine recommendations for Vietnam in TravelHealthPro’s Vietnam guide
• where to get vaccines and whether you have to pay on the NHS travel vaccinations page

See what health risks you’ll face in Vietnam, including:

• mosquito-borne diseases like Zika virus, dengue, malaria and Japanese encephalitis
• air pollution – see information on air quality on TravelHealthPro

Altitude sickness is a risk in parts of Vietnam. Read more about altitude sickness on TravelHealthPro. 

Medication

Some medicines can be hard to find in Vietnam and many are fake.

The legal status and regulation of some medicines prescribed or bought in the UK can be different in other countries.

Read best practice when travelling with medicines on TravelHealthPro.

Vietnam has restrictions on medicines it classifies as ‘addictive’ or ‘psychotropic’. These include medicine used to treat of addiction, anxiety, depression, insomnia and other conditions.

It is illegal to have more than 7 days of prescribed medicine by a doctor (addictive and psychotropic medicine). You should carry the prescription with your medication and a letter from your doctor stating how much of the medication you need during your trip.

The letter can be in English and should:

• include your name and age
• list the medicine name, volume and dosage
• include the doctor’s signature and address

If you’re unsure if your medication falls within these categories or you need to bring more medication than is usually allowed, contact the Vietnamese Embassy in the UK before travelling.

Healthcare in Vietnam

FCDO has a list of medical providers in Vietnam where some staff will speak English.

There is also guidance on healthcare if you’re living in Vietnam.

Travel and mental health

Vietnam has no Mental Health Act and as such support is very limited for foreign nationals.

Read FCDO guidance on travel and mental health. There is also mental health guidance on TravelHealthPro.