Freedom of movement in Vietnam in the context of COVID-19 pandemic
Freedom of movement is among the fundamental rights under the 1966 International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights (ICCPR) to which Vietnam has been a member state since 1982. Freedom of movement not only creates the premise for an individual to enjoy civil, political, and other economic, social and cultural rights, but also as a condition to promote the development of the economy and society of countries. Nonetheless, the right to freedom of movement is not absolute and can be subjected to restrictions in certain circumstances. The following article examines the regulations on restrictions on freedom of movement following the ICCPR and Vietnam’s law, and evaluates the practical implementation as well as the shortcomings of the restrictions amidst the COVID-19 pandemic.
Visas for foreigners entering Vietnam via border-gate or coastal economic zones
According to Government Decree 75/2020/ND-CP dated July 1, 2020, detailing the Law on Entry, Exit, Transit, and Residence of Foreigners in Vietnam, a foreigner who enjoys visa exemption for entering a Vietnamese border-gate or coastal economic zone must be invited or guaranteed by a Vietnamese organization or individual in applying for Vietnam visa at an immigration authority if wishing to travel to other localities in Vietnam.