Vietnam doesn’t recognise Australian driver licences or International Driving Permits (IDPs) issued in Australia. You must have a valid Vietnamese driver licence to drive or ride in Vietnam, including for motorcycles of 50cc or more. Local authorities may fine visitors for driving without a valid Vietnamese driver licence.

It’s a crime to use illegal drugs. You can be charged for using them or testing positive for having them in your system while you’re in country, even if they were consumed outside of Vietnam. Penalties for drug offences include the death penalty and life imprisonment. Don’t use or carry illegal drugs and never carry parcels or luggage for others.

Ensure you check your visa details carefully for errors (see ‘Travel’).

We advise:

Exercise normal safety precautions in Vietnam.