About 6,800 Vietnamese people are expected to return home from foreign countries on Wednesday amid fast spreading of the novel coronavirus in Europe and ASEAN, according to the Viet Nam Civil Aviation Authority. 

All incoming passengers are requested to seriously observe current regulations
on medical declaration and quarantine in  righteous and constructive manner

Of the total, as many as 1,095 Vietnamese come from European countries like France, Germany and the UK while the rest return from ASEAN, said the authority.

Under the current regulations, all incoming passengers shall have to declare medical status. Those from the pandemic stricken areas shall be tested and taken to centralized quarantine areas.

In coming travellers are requested to fully understand and seriously observe the above regulations in a righteous and constructive manner.

Earlier on March 17, the national flag carrier, Viet Nam Airlines, announced temporary suspension of flights between Viet Nam and France until next announcement.

Meanwhile, flights between Viet Nam and Malaysia are also postponed from March 18-31 following the Malaysian Government’s announcement of border closure.

The carrier is also considering more cuts of flights to/from ASEAN countries in accordance the pandemic situation and latest measures of the Government.

Also on March 17, the Government decided to temporarily halt visa issuance to foreigners for 30 days, applicable since March 18.

Foreigners enjoying visa-waiver program or overseas Vietnamese and their spouses and children having been granted with certificate of visa exemption shall only be allowed to enter Viet Nam if they can submit papers certifying they are not positive for the virus.

The aforesaid measure shall also be applied to foreigners who are experts, business managers, highly skilled workers upon arrival to Viet Nam./.