Vietnam – Health Risks, Inoculations, Vaccinations, and Health Certificates

What are the main health risks for expats living in Vietnam?

Vietnam’s tropical climate and varied terrain give rise to a broad spectrum of infectious and environmental health hazards that can affect people living there long-term. Familiarising yourself with these risks before you arrive — and recognising how they differ across the country — is a critical part of preparing for life in Vietnam.

Vector-borne diseases: Dengue is endemic throughout Vietnam and, while case numbers tend to spike during the summer rainy season, transmission takes place all year round. It is particularly prevalent in the Mekong Delta, including Ho Chi Minh City. No widely accessible vaccine currently exists for adults arriving from non-endemic countries, so preventing mosquito bites is the most effective line of defence. Japanese encephalitis (JE) is also endemic across the country. Zika virus is similarly present in Vietnam, though the threat to most travellers is considered low; pregnant women, however, should take stringent precautions to avoid mosquito exposure given the risk of fetal abnormalities.

Malaria: Malaria risk — driven predominantly by P. falciparum — exists across most of the country, with the exception of urban centres, the Red River delta, the Mekong delta, and the coastal plains of central Vietnam. The zones of highest risk are the highland areas below 1,500 m south of 18°N, most notably in the four central highland provinces of Dak Lak, Dak Nong, Gia Lai, and Kon Tum; in Binh Phuoc Province; and in the western sections of the coastal provinces of Khanh Hoa, Ninh Thuan, Quang Nam, and Quang Tri. Expats based in cities face considerably lower exposure, but those venturing into rural or highland regions should take appropriate precautions.

Food- and waterborne illnesses: Tap water in Vietnam is not safe for drinking, and ice made from tap water should also be avoided. Gastrointestinal illness and food-related infections are common concerns for new arrivals. Choosing food vendors with high customer turnover and avoiding ice outside of major cities can lower your risk. Vietnam also records a substantial burden of trematode infections, with an estimated 6,000–10,000 cases each year requiring medical attention. Travellers should avoid raw, pickled, or undercooked freshwater crustaceans such as crabs and crayfish, as well as raw boar or deer meat, all of which may carry lung fluke eggs or larvae.

Tuberculosis and other infectious diseases: Vietnam carries a heavy burden of tuberculosis (TB), including drug-resistant strains. The risk of infection can be reduced by limiting close contact with individuals known to have active TB, particularly in confined or crowded environments such as clinics, hospitals, prisons, and shelters. Since 2015, a series of diphtheria outbreaks has been documented — predominantly in the Central Highlands, with sporadic cases in central coastal and southern regions. Routine vaccination coverage for preventable diseases has fallen below outbreak-prevention thresholds partly as a legacy of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Avian influenza: Vietnam has recorded sporadic human infections with avian influenza A (H5N1). Since 2003, 129 H5N1 cases have been reported, with a mortality rate of approximately 50%. No human H5 infections were documented between 2014 and 2021, though sporadic cases have occurred since then. In 2024, Vietnam also detected its first confirmed human case of influenza A (H9N2).

Environmental and climate risks: Urban air pollution is a significant concern and can aggravate respiratory conditions such as asthma, causing symptoms like a scratchy throat or nasal drip. Wearing a suitable mask while travelling in cities is advisable. Vietnam’s hot, humid climate also brings risks of sunburn, dehydration, and heat-related conditions such as heat exhaustion and heatstroke. Staying well hydrated, applying sunscreen, and seeking shade during the hottest parts of the day are sensible habits to adopt.

Animal-related risks: When exploring Vietnam’s natural environments, be alert to the possibility of animal bites and potential rabies exposure from both wild and domestic animals. Wearing protective clothing and remaining vigilant while hiking or visiting nature parks is important. Other health concerns present in Vietnam include anthrax, avian influenza, enteroviruses, helminths, hepatitis C, leptospirosis, marine hazards, melioidosis, plague, schistosomiasis, sexually transmitted infections, snakebites, and tuberculosis.

Are any vaccinations or inoculations required before entering Vietnam?

It is worth drawing a clear distinction between vaccinations that are legally mandated for entry and those that are simply advisable for personal health protection. For Vietnam, the number of compulsory vaccines is small — but the list of recommended ones is considerably longer.

Yellow fever — the one mandatory requirement: Vietnam’s Ministry of Public Health Quarantine Service requires travellers to present documented proof of yellow fever vaccination if they arrive in Vietnam within six days of departing or transiting through a yellow fever–affected area. If you are travelling directly from a country free of yellow fever, no certificate is required. However, if your journey passes through any yellow fever endemic country in Africa or South America — even as a brief transit stop — you must carry a valid International Certificate of Vaccination or Prophylaxis (ICVP, commonly known as a “yellow card”).

COVID-19 requirements: Vietnam removed all COVID-19 entry restrictions in 2023. As of 2025, no proof of vaccination or negative PCR test is required. Nonetheless, travellers are encouraged to remain current with booster doses and to observe sensible hygiene precautions in crowded settings.

No other vaccines are required for entry: Beyond yellow fever, Vietnam imposes no vaccination conditions at the border. However, health professionals strongly recommend a range of vaccines for anyone moving to or living in Vietnam, whether for a brief stay or long-term residence. Those applying for a Vietnamese work permit face additional health documentation requirements, which are detailed in the health certificate section below.

Entry requirements can be revised without notice. Always confirm current conditions with the Vietnam Immigration Department or your nearest Vietnamese embassy or consulate prior to departure.

Which vaccinations are recommended for expats moving to Vietnam?

International health bodies consistently advise people relocating to Vietnam to ensure their routine immunisations are current and to consider a number of destination-specific vaccines. Because expats are settling in the country rather than passing through, the recommendations are typically more comprehensive than those given to short-stay visitors.

Ideally, you should book an appointment with a travel health professional at least four to six weeks before you leave. Even if your departure date is approaching, a consultation is still worthwhile. A clinician can assess your individual risk profile — factoring in your medical history, intended destination within Vietnam, and planned activities. Those with pre-existing health conditions should arrange an appointment as early as possible.

Routine vaccinations to update: The CDC and WHO recommend the following vaccinations for travellers to Vietnam: typhoid, hepatitis A, polio, Japanese encephalitis, chikungunya, rabies, hepatitis B, influenza, COVID-19, pneumonia, meningitis, chickenpox, shingles, Tdap (tetanus, diphtheria, and pertussis), and measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR). Several of these belong to standard national immunisation schedules and may already be in your records — but booster doses are often overdue, and some protection may have lapsed. Reviewing your vaccination history carefully before your move is a worthwhile step.

Hepatitis A: Recommended for all expats given the elevated risk of exposure through contaminated food and water. Hepatitis A vaccine is well tolerated and provides durable protection, making it advisable for all previously unvaccinated travellers.

Hepatitis B: Hepatitis B vaccination is recommended for long-term travellers, expatriates, and others at elevated risk, given the high prevalence of chronic hepatitis B infection in the Vietnamese population. This is especially relevant for expats who may require medical or dental treatment while living in Vietnam.

Japanese encephalitis: Because JE is endemic throughout Vietnam, the CDC recommends vaccination for all travellers spending one month or more in the country. It should also be considered for shorter visits if the traveller plans to spend time in rural areas or engage in activities — such as camping, hiking, or staying in accommodation without air conditioning, screens, or bed nets — that increase exposure to the mosquitoes that transmit the JE virus. For expats making a long-term move, this vaccine is widely regarded as essential.

Typhoid: Typhoid fever is a bacterial illness spread via contaminated food and water. Prior typhoid infection provides only partial protection against reinfection. Vaccination is recommended for most travellers, particularly those who will be in contact with infected individuals, young children, or people who travel frequently or for extended periods to areas where sanitation and food hygiene may be poor.

Rabies: Pre-exposure rabies vaccination is strongly advised for anyone staying long-term, working with animals, or spending time in rural or remote areas. Post-exposure treatment can be difficult to access quickly in parts of Vietnam away from major cities, making advance vaccination a sensible precaution.

Tetanus, diphtheria, and pertussis (Tdap): A Tdap booster is recommended if your last dose was more than ten years ago. Given that multiple diphtheria outbreaks have been recorded in Vietnam since 2015 — primarily in the Central Highlands, with sporadic cases in central coastal and southern regions — keeping this vaccination current is particularly important.

MMR (measles, mumps, rubella): Vietnam has experienced recurring measles outbreaks. In 2024, more than 7,500 confirmed cases were recorded, predominantly in the south of the country and linked to declining childhood vaccination rates. Adults who are not fully immunised should ensure they are up to date with MMR before relocating.

Arrange a visit to a qualified travel health clinic well ahead of your move. A clinician can tailor advice to your specific circumstances, including your health history, planned activities, and the regions of Vietnam where you will be living or travelling.

Do you need a health certificate to move to or work in Vietnam?

If you intend to take up employment in Vietnam — rather than visiting as a tourist or staying on another visa category — obtaining a health certificate is not a matter of choice. It is a legal obligation directly linked to the work permit application process.

In Vietnam, a health certificate is an officially recognised document issued by approved and licensed medical institutions. It is required primarily when applying for a Work Permit and Temporary Residence Card (TRC) after arriving in the country.

Step-by-step: How to get a health certificate for a Vietnam work permit

1. Confirm timing: The work permit process typically takes four to six weeks from start to finish. It is advisable to complete your health examination after gathering your other required documents, so that your certificate does not expire before your permit is approved.
2. Choose an authorised facility: Foreign workers must undergo their medical examination exclusively at facilities approved by the Ministry of Health, as listed in Official Letter 143/KCB-PHCN&GĐ dated February 5, 2015. Certificates issued by non-authorised institutions are automatically rejected by work permit processing offices, regardless of their apparent quality. The Ministry of Health periodically updates the list of approved facilities.
3. Prepare your documents: Bring your passport (original and a copy), two passport-sized photographs (4cm x 6cm) on a white background taken within the past six months, and any relevant medical records concerning pre-existing conditions.
4. Attend the examination: Work permit health examinations in Vietnam cover three areas: a physical examination (height, weight, BMI, pulse, blood pressure), a clinical examination (internal medicine, surgery, gynaecology for women, ophthalmology, ENT, dental, and dermatology), and sub-clinical tests (blood tests, urinalysis, chest X-ray, and ECG).
5. Receive your certificate: Processing time varies, but results are typically available within 15 to 30 minutes of the examination concluding. Some clinics issue the certificate the same day; others may require a day depending on their internal procedures.
6. Submit with your work permit application: Confirm that the certificate explicitly states you are “healthy enough to work” and bears the required signatures from the examining physicians.

Validity: Under Decree 219/2025/ND-CP, a health certificate issued in Vietnam is valid for 12 months from the date of issue. Certificates obtained abroad carry a maximum validity of six months from issuance and must be consularly legalised and translated into Vietnamese. In practice, having the examination carried out in Vietnam is the most straightforward approach — it can typically be completed within half a day and requires no legalisation or translation.

Cost: The cost of a work permit health examination ranges from approximately VND 1,500,000 to VND 3,000,000 (as of 2025), depending on the facility. International clinics serving the expatriate community tend to sit at the higher end of this range but generally offer English-speaking staff and a more familiar environment. Always confirm current pricing directly with the facility, as these figures may change.

For the most up-to-date list of authorised facilities, contact the Vietnam Ministry of Health or the Vietnam Immigration Department.

How does healthcare in Vietnam compare to what expats may be used to?

Vietnam’s health system operates on a mixed public-private basis. Rather than a unified, publicly funded national service, it combines state-run hospitals with a rapidly expanding network of private and international clinics — and the disparity in quality between large cities and rural areas is substantial.

Public versus private care: State hospitals in Vietnam are frequently overcrowded and under-equipped, especially outside the main urban centres. The majority of expats choose to use private or international medical facilities, which offer shorter waiting times, better infrastructure, and staff more accustomed to treating foreign patients. Vietnam’s healthcare sector is growing rapidly, with expenditure forecast to rise from US$18.5 billion in 2022 to US$33.8 billion by 2030 — a compound annual growth rate of 7.6%.

Major cities: In cities such as Hanoi, Da Nang, and Ho Chi Minh City, both public and private hospitals employ English-speaking staff, and international-standard care is available. Well-established facilities serving the expat community include Vinmec International Hospital, FV Hospital in Ho Chi Minh City, and Family Medical Practice, which operates clinics across several cities and has substantial experience with foreign residents.

Outside major cities: Medical infrastructure diminishes significantly beyond the main urban areas. Certain serious conditions or injuries may necessitate evacuation to another country. Expats should carry adequate medical evacuation insurance to cover the cost of transfer to Singapore or Bangkok, where advanced specialist care is available. This is especially important for those living or working in rural or highland regions.

Medication: To ensure the quality and authenticity of medicines, it is preferable to purchase them through an established expatriate or international travel clinic, even if this comes at a higher cost. When bringing prescription drugs from your home country, carry a sufficient supply for the entire trip or initial period, kept in the original packaging and accompanied by the prescription. Counterfeit or substandard medications are a known concern in some local pharmacies.

Health insurance: Comprehensive international health insurance is strongly recommended for all expats living in Vietnam. Although not a universal visa requirement, it serves as a vital financial safeguard against the cost of private care and the potentially high expense of medical evacuation. Many expats opt for international health plans that provide broad coverage across the region.

What are the risks of travel within Vietnam, and are there regional health differences?

Vietnam extends more than 1,650 kilometres from north to south, spanning a remarkably diverse range of climates and ecosystems — from high mountain terrain in the north to tropical lowlands and extensive river deltas in the south. Health risks differ noticeably by region, and expats who move around the country regularly should understand these distinctions.

Malaria zones: The risk of malaria is significantly higher in rural highland areas. Those planning excursions to remote destinations in Vietnam should consider antimalarial medication. City-based expats who make occasional trips to highland zones such as Sapa, the Central Highlands, or border areas with Laos and Cambodia should consult a travel health clinician before setting off.

Japanese encephalitis by region: JE activity peaks between May and October. The highest disease rates are recorded in the northern provinces surrounding Hanoi and in the northwestern and northeastern provinces bordering China. Rural agricultural areas throughout the country carry greater JE risk than urban settings.

Dengue and the south: Dengue is a particular concern in southern Vietnam, especially in the Mekong Delta and Ho Chi Minh City. It presents a year-round risk, with outbreaks typically recurring every two to five years. Expats in the south should make mosquito bite prevention a consistent part of their daily routine throughout the year.

Air quality in cities: Urban air pollution affects residents in major cities, and Hanoi in particular consistently ranks among Asia’s most polluted cities during the winter months. Those with asthma or other respiratory conditions should take this environment seriously. Monitoring local air quality index (AQI) readings and wearing an appropriate mask on high-pollution days are practical steps to reduce exposure.

Food and water safety by region: Food hygiene and water quality standards vary by destination and can differ significantly even within a single country. A cautious approach to street food and untreated water helps mitigate risk. When travelling outside major cities, choosing freshly cooked food and bottled water is the safer option.

Heat and altitude: At high-altitude destinations such as Sapa in the northwest, travellers who ascend rapidly may experience altitude-related symptoms. Heat illness, including heatstroke, can be life-threatening. Maintaining regular food and fluid intake, choosing loose and lightweight clothing, and avoiding strenuous activity during the hottest hours of the day are all important precautions.

Where can expats get reliable and up-to-date health advice for Vietnam?

Health guidelines, outbreak notifications, and vaccination recommendations are subject to revision. The resources listed below are authoritative, regularly updated, and should serve as your primary reference when planning your move or staying informed while living in Vietnam. Always verify specific details — including fees, regulatory requirements, and processing times — against the most current official sources.

• Vietnam Ministry of Health: The principal national health authority in Vietnam, with responsibility for public health policy, the register of authorised medical facilities, and health certificate regulations. moh.gov.vn
• World Health Organization (WHO) — Vietnam: Offers country-level disease surveillance data, outbreak alerts, and health system information. who.int/vietnam
• US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) — Vietnam: Provides detailed destination-specific vaccination guidance and health risk information, updated on a regular basis. wwwnc.cdc.gov/travel/destinations/traveler/none/vietnam
• UK Travel Health Pro (NaTHNaC) — Vietnam: Publishes comprehensive vaccination recommendations and health risk summaries prepared by the National Travel Health Network and Centre. travelhealthpro.org.uk/country/240/vietnam
• Vietnam Immigration Department: The official source for information on visa categories, work permit conditions, and health certificate obligations for foreign nationals. xuatnhapcanh.gov.vn
• International SOS and Family Medical Practice Vietnam: Long-established international clinics operating in Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City, offering travel health consultations, vaccinations, and work permit health examinations for expatriates. Details for the nearest branch can be found on their respective official websites.
• Vinmec International Hospital: A leading Vietnamese hospital group providing English-language services and internationally trained medical staff, with facilities across multiple cities in Vietnam. vinmec.com/en

Specific requirements, costs, and medical recommendations can change without notice. Always consult official sources before making decisions about vaccinations, health certificates, or medical treatment.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to get any vaccinations before moving to Vietnam?

No vaccinations are legally required for entry into Vietnam unless you are travelling from or through a yellow fever endemic country — in that case, a valid yellow fever certificate is mandatory. However, a range of vaccines is strongly recommended for anyone relocating to Vietnam, including hepatitis A and B, typhoid, Japanese encephalitis, MMR, and tetanus/diphtheria/pertussis. Book an appointment with a travel health clinic at least four to six weeks before your departure for tailored advice.

Will my existing home-country vaccination records be accepted in Vietnam?

Health certificates from abroad may be accepted where Vietnam has a mutual recognition agreement with the issuing country, provided the certificate is less than 12 months old. However, no broad confirmation exists that overseas health certificates are widely recognised for work permit purposes in Vietnam, so completing your health examination in Vietnam is generally the more reliable approach. For general vaccination records rather than work permit certificates, carrying an officially translated copy of your immunisation history can be helpful when accessing local healthcare services.

Is health insurance required to live in Vietnam?

Health insurance is not a universal requirement for all visa categories in Vietnam, but it is strongly advisable. Private and international medical care — which most expats prefer — can be expensive, and the cost of medical evacuation to countries such as Singapore or Thailand for specialist treatment can be very significant. A comprehensive international health insurance plan that includes medical evacuation cover is widely regarded as essential for expats living in Vietnam.

How do I find an English-speaking doctor in Vietnam?

Hanoi, Da Nang, and Ho Chi Minh City all have both public and private hospitals with English-speaking medical staff. International clinics such as Family Medical Practice, FV Hospital, and Vinmec are well-known for catering to foreign residents and conducting consultations in English. Beyond the main cities, access to English-language medical services becomes considerably more limited, which further underscores the importance of carrying evacuation insurance.

What should I do if I develop a serious illness in Vietnam?

For complex or serious medical conditions, seek treatment at an international or private hospital in Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh City. Make sure your insurance policy covers medical evacuation, as transfer to Singapore or Bangkok for advanced specialist care may be necessary. Store your insurer’s emergency contact number somewhere easily accessible and carry a medical summary card listing your blood type, any existing conditions, allergies, and current medications.

Is malaria a risk in cities like Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City?

No. Malaria transmission is absent in urban centres, the Red River delta, the Mekong delta, and the coastal plains of central Vietnam. Expats residing in major cities face minimal malaria risk. However, those travelling to highland or rural regions — particularly the Central Highlands and border areas — should discuss the need for antimalarial prophylaxis with a health professional before visiting those areas.

How much does a health certificate for a Vietnam work permit cost, and how long does it take?

As of 2025, a work permit health examination costs between VND 1,500,000 and VND 3,000,000 depending on the facility. Results are typically available within 15 to 30 minutes of the examination, though some clinics may require up to a day to process the certificate. The examination must be carried out at a Ministry of Health–authorised facility — consult your employer or the Ministry of Health for the current approved list.

Are there specific health risks I should be aware of when visiting rural Vietnam?

Travel to rural areas in Vietnam offers rewarding cultural experiences but carries heightened health risks. The likelihood of encountering malaria and dengue fever is greater in remote and rural settings. Apply insect repellent at dawn and dusk, and consider antimalarial medication if visiting high-risk zones. Food and water hygiene standards are also lower outside cities, and access to quality medical facilities is more restricted. Comprehensive insurance with evacuation cover and a well-stocked first aid kit are particularly important when venturing into rural Vietnam.