New Entry Requirement for Ho Chi Minh City (2026 Update)
With little prior notice, a new Vietnam pre-arrival declaration requirement has been introduced for all foreign travelers entering the country through Tan Son Nhat International Airport (SGN) in Ho Chi Minh City. This measure is part of an ongoing effort to modernize immigration procedures and improve processing efficiency. All travelers (including holders of TRC’s, long-term visas, ABTC holders, etc.) should complete the arrival declaration if they are entering through Tan Son Nhat.
The portal is designed to collect basic immigration information (personal details, passport, flight, accommodation, and visa data) before travelers meet the immigration officer. Once the online submission is complete, the system generates a QR code that can be scanned at immigration counters, speeding up entry and reducing congestion.
It is expected that the requirement will be expanded to other international entry points across Vietnam including airports (Hanoi ,Danang, etc.) and land border crossings. Travelers with upcoming plans to enter Vietnam are advised to double-check current requirements for their point of entry prior to departure to avoid any unexpected delays upon arrival.
Official Pre-Arrival Declaration Form
All travelers must complete the declaration using the official government portal which can be accessed HERE. It is important to use only this official link to avoid errors, delays, or potential security risks from sites posing as the pre-arrival portal.
How the Pre-Arrival Process Works
- Prior to departing for Vietnam, travelers should fill out the online form.
- Keep a screenshot of confirmation (have print-out or offline version on phone just to be safe)
- Present information upon arrival.
Additional Info
- There are kiosk’s available in the immigration hall in Tan Son Nhat airport for those who have not completed the online form. However, these may become congested, particularly during peak periods. In order to avoid unnecessarily long waits at immigration, fill out form prior to arrival.
- The pre-arrival form can be accessed via mobile phone and filled out while waiting in line at immigration. However, be aware the public wifi can be unreliable in Tan Son Nhat Airport so again, it is best to complete it prior to arriving.
- Travelers must complete the pre-arrival form for every entry into Vietnam.
- Each traveler must complete the form, even accompanying children.
- This is newly implemented program and there may be unexpected technical issues or further clarifications during the rollout.
- Airlines may not automatically be aware of this new requirement and it may not appear on travel sites immediately.
Impact on Business Travel and Expats
- Update pre-departure checklists: Include the pre-arrival declaration alongside visa and work permit documentation.
- Plan for short-term delays: During the rollout phase, immigration processing times may be less predictable.
- Long-term efficiency expected: Once stabilized, the system should help streamline arrival procedures.
Resident Vietnam Recommendations
Vietnam’s immigration policies remain dynamic and subject to change, particularly as new digital systems are introduced. Should you have any questions, please contact our team at Resident Vietnam and subscribe to our blog for the most up to date information.
