The UK Foreign Office has issued a warning to those travelling to Vietnam after reports of holidaymakers being left unable to leave the country and having their passports confiscated.

The foreign office updated its travel advice for Vietnam this week adding additional information on exit bans, internet censorship, drug penalties and tropical cyclones.

The update comes after reports of tourists finding themselves unable to leave the country, while also having their passports confiscated, according to The Mirror. 

UK Foreign Office warns holidaymakers of 'exit bans' and risk of having passport seized

The UK foreign office issued a statement on exit bans as part of the update travel advice on its website. 

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It said: "Vietnamese authorities may place an exit ban on certain individuals to prevent them from leaving the country.

"Your passport will be seized until the case is fully investigated. If you are unable to leave the country because of an exit ban, consult a lawyer and contact your nearest British embassy or consulate."

An exit ban, the foreign office explained, can relate to investigations into:

  • An individual, their family or an employer
  • Criminal and civil matters, such as business disputes or motor vehicle accidents 
  • Employment without a work visa
  • Unpaid financial debts

You must also make sure you have a valid passport as well, if travelling overseas, the Foreign Office added.

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You can see the full updated travel advice from the Foreign Office via its website here.

Brits warned they could receive the 'death penalty' for drug offences

The foreign offices update also included information about the penalties surrounding drug offences in Vietnam.

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It said: "Penalties for possessing, distributing or manufacturing drugs are severe. You can get the death sentence if you’re found with even small amounts."

The foreign office added: "Illegal drugs are often tampered with or spiked and can be much stronger than in Europe. British nationals in Vietnam have suffered severe psychiatric problems because of drug use. 

"Recreational drugs available in Vietnam can be extremely dangerous and can result in death. Drugs sold in Vietnam may be fake, synthetic, or laced with toxic ingredients undetectable to the buyer. This includes nitrous oxide balloons widely available in nightlife establishments."