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

Related News

MEMBER CORNER / PROMOTIONS

SAFETY IS LIFE – DISCIPLINE IS STRENGTH

At Phuc Vuong, we believe that no project is more important than human life. To us, safety is not just a slogan; it is a vital principle with no exceptions. All these efforts serve one simple goal: to ensure every colleague can work with peace of mind, and every worker returns home safe and sound after every shift. This is our highest commitment and the sustainable foundation that Phuc Vuong always upholds.

Apr 21, 2026

MEMBER CORNER / PROMOTIONS

DOING BUSINESS WITH CHINA 2.0

As China continues to evolve into a global powerhouse in innovation, technology, and advanced manufacturing, understanding how to effectively engage with this market has never been more critical. Doing Business with China 2.0 is a flagship executive programme designed to equip business leaders with practical insights, strategic perspectives, and first-hand exposure to navigate China’s rapidly changing landscape.

Apr 17, 2026

HOSPITALITY / TOURISM / ENTERTAINMENT

VNAT EYES 25 MILLION FOREIGN VISITORS IN 2026

In the first quarter of the year, international arrivals amounted to 6.7 million, up 12.4% from a year earlier and the highest level on record. Domestic travel reached an estimated 37 million trips, with total tourism revenue at around VND267 trillion. Global developments pose risks. Geopolitical tensions in the Middle East have driven up fuel prices, increasing transport and tourism service costs.

Apr 16, 2026

BANKING / FINANCE / INSURANCE / TAX

VIETNAM’S CREDIT TOPS VND19.18 QUADRILLION, FLOWS INTO PRODUCTION SECTORS

Total outstanding loans in Vietnam’s banking system had reached over VND19.18 quadrillion in the year to March 31, up 3.18% against the end of 2025, with lending largely directed toward production and priority sectors, according to the State Bank of Vietnam. Data released at the central bank’s first-quarter press briefing on April 14 showed that several Government-backed lending programs have recorded notable disbursement progress. A credit package for the forestry and fisheries sectors has been expanded sharply, from VND15 trillion to VND185 trillion.

Apr 16, 2026

INFRASTRUCTURE / CONSTRUCTION / LOGISTIC / PORT

VIETNAM GETS US$2.64 BILLION FROM SEAFOOD EXPORTS IN Q1

Vietnam’s seafood sector booked around US$927 million in export revenue in March, bringing the total in the first quarter of this year to US$2.64 billion, showed data from the Vietnam Association of Seafood Exporters and Producers (VASEP). China was the primary export market in Q1. Other markets such as the U.S., Japan and South Korea imported less due to weakened consumer spending and stringent technical barriers.

Apr 16, 2026

INFRASTRUCTURE / CONSTRUCTION / LOGISTIC / PORT

HCMC SET TO START WORK ON SEVEN MAJOR INFRASTRUCTURE PROJECTS

Ho Chi Minh City plans to simultaneously break ground on seven major infrastructure projects worth a combined VND380 trillion on the occasion of Vietnam’s Reunification Day (April 30). The projects are highly expected to unlock public investment and fuel economic growth. To prepare for the simultaneous launch, relevant departments and authorities have worked to streamline administrative procedures while maintaining legal compliance, with the goal of meeting conditions for groundbreaking on the occasion of the national holiday.

Apr 16, 2026