Vietnam Implements New Health Declarations Amid Tourism Surge

• Vietnam will require travelers to submit health declarations starting July 1, 2026.
• Vietnam's airports are experiencing long queues due to a surge in international arrivals.
• International arrivals in Vietnam are particularly high from China and South Korea.
• Cambodia has launched a four-month visa-free trial for Chinese tourists.
• Chinese citizens can stay in Cambodia for up to 14 days under the visa-free trial.
• Cambodia aims to attract at least 600,000 Chinese visitors during the pilot period.

Vietnam is set to implement a new health declaration requirement for all travelers entering the country, with the policy taking effect on July 1, 2026. This measure comes as Vietnamese airports are already experiencing significant congestion due to a substantial increase in international arrivals. The surge in travelers, notably from China and South Korea, has led to prolonged queues, and the new health declarations are expected to add further administrative steps for passengers. The government's aim is to manage the influx while ensuring public health protocols are met.

In parallel, Cambodia has launched a strategic initiative to attract more tourists by offering a four-month visa-free trial specifically for Chinese citizens. Under this pilot program, Chinese nationals can enter Cambodia and stay for up to 14 days without a visa. This policy is designed to stimulate Cambodia's tourism industry, with authorities expressing optimism about attracting at least 600,000 Chinese visitors during the trial period. The move is part of a broader effort by Cambodia to enhance its appeal to international travelers and recover tourism revenues.

The implementation of new entry requirements in Vietnam and the visa-free initiative in Cambodia highlight regional efforts to manage and capitalize on the rebound in international travel. While Vietnam is adding a layer of health screening, Cambodia is streamlining entry for a key market. Both countries are responding to a global trend of increasing tourism post-pandemic, with a particular focus on attracting visitors from major source markets like China.