AUTOMATIC STAY EXTENSION FOR FOREIGNERS STRANDED DUE TO COVID-19

The Department of Immigration has issued a notice on automatic extension of stay for foreigners stranded due to COVID-19.

1. Accordingly, foreigners who entered Viet Nam on visa waivers, e-visas or tourist visas from March 1st, 2020 are entitled to automatic stay extension until December 31st, 2021 and can depart from Viet Nam without having to apply for stay extension.

For those who entered Viet Nam before March 1st, 2020, the same automatic stay extension until December 31st, 2021 can be considered, subject to provision of proof that the person was stranded in Viet Nam due to COVID-19, accompanied by a diplomatic Note (with Vietnamese translation) from relevant diplomatic missions, or a written document from relevant Vietnamese authorities confirming that the person was required to undergo mandatory quarantine or treatment for COVID-19, or advice of other force majeure. The person is required to present the diplomatic Note or written document on departure from Viet Nam.

2. During “automatic stay extension” period, foreigners shall be required to complete temporary residence and health status declaration.

3. Foreigners who are not subject to Paragraph 1 or violate Vietnamese laws will be treated according to applicable laws of Viet Nam.

Source: VGP