To give priority to red-cross activists in clearance of procedures for the entry, exit in Vietnam

To give priority to red-cross activists in clearance of procedures for the entry, exit in Vietnam (Internet image)

Article 8 of Decree 03/2011/ND-CP stipulates regulations on prioritizing and facilitating the clearance of procedures for the entry, exit and travel of red-cross activists in case of natural disasters, catastrophes and dangerous epidemics. To be specific:

- Visas for foreigners who enter Vietnam to carry out red-cross activities in case of natural disasters, catastrophes and dangerous epidemics shall be granted by overseas Vietnamese representative missions within 24 hours after receiving an application therefor or granted right at Vietnam's international border gates. When necessary, visas may be granted or modified during the implementation of relief activities in response to natural disasters, catastrophes and dangerous epidemics.

- Visa application dossiers comply with the Government's Decree No. 21/2001/ND-CP of May 28, 2001, detailing the Ordinance on Foreigners' Entry into, Exit from and Residence in Vietnam and relevant legal documents. Vietnam Red Cross Society's documents calling for international participation in red-cross activities in response to natural disasters, catastrophes and dangerous epidemics in Vietnam shall be as valid as letters of invitation.

- Vietnamese competent state agencies shall create favorable conditions for foreigners who carry out red-cross activities in Vietnam in case of natural disasters, catastrophes and dangerous epidemics to travel and work in areas affected by natural disasters and participate in post-disaster relief and remedy activities.

- Vietnamese citizens who carry out relief activities in response to natural disasters, catastrophes and dangerous epidemics in foreign countries shall abide by Vietnam's laws, treaties to which Vietnam has acceded, laws of host countries and international laws and practice.

- Competent Vietnamese state agencies shall create favorable conditions for Vietnam Red Cross Society to participate in international relief activities.

More details can be found in Decree 03/2011/ND-CP, which comes into force from February 25, 2011.

Thuy Tram

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