中文 (简体)
Tan Son Nhat International Airport (SGN) – the biggest and busiest aviation hub in Vietnam serving over 40 million passengers annually might be overwelming to anyone no matter you are a frequent or a first-time visitor. As a result, this article will provide you with details and updates aiming at supporting you with smooth Immigration process when arrival.
Tan Son Nhat International Airport (SGN) Arrival Map and Terminal Layout
Understanding the airport layout before arrival can help you to save time and release stress because you already map out the “immaginary space” in your head and have everything prepared. The International Terminal at Tan Son Nhat International Airport is named T2, with the layout as below.
Layout of International Terminal (T2) at Tan Son Nhat International Airport:
- Level 1: Immigration and Baggage Claim
- Level 2: Customs and Exit
- Ground Level: Transportation Hub
Tips for better navigation at T2 SGN
If you are not familiar with the airport, don’t worry. Here is the tips for better navigation at the International Terminal of SGN.
- Follow the signs which are clearly marked blue in English and Vietnamese;
- Ask for help at Information counters which are available on all levels;
- Ask for assist with direction from Airport staff;
Step-by-Step Arrival Guide at T2 Tan Son Nhat International Airport
After your flight lands at T2 Tan Son Nhat Airport, you’ll need to complete the Immigration procedures before collecting luggages and then entering Ho Chi Minh City.
The whole process includes 03 steps as follow.
Step 01: Immigration Clearance
Once getting off the planes, all international visitors will need to:
- Follow the “Immigration/Passport Control” signs;
- Choose the appropriate line: Landing visa (for those who use Vietnam visa approval letter), or Arrival;
- Complete arrival card if not done on the plane;
And then show these documents to the officer:
- Original Passport (valid for 06 months beyond stay, and at least 02 blank pages);
- Vietnam visa or entry permit;
- Completed arrival card;
👉 Notes:
- This step can take around 30 to 60 minutes depends on the current situation (e.g. time can be longer during peak hours)
- Peak times: Early morning (06 – 08 AM) and evening (05 – 07 PM);
Step 02: Baggage Claim
After clearing Immigration, you’ll proceed to collect your luggage:
Here is how you can get your luggage at T2 Tan Son Nhat International Airport:
- Check flight number on display screens;
- Locate your designated carousel;
- Grab a free luggage cart if needed;
- Check Baggage claim ticket attached to your boarding pass;
👉 Notes:
- This step can take around 15 to 30 minutes depends on the current situation;
- Verify your luggage tag to make sure you get the right one;
- In case of losing luggage, look for the “Lost & Found” or “Lost Luggage” signs to find the counter which is located to the left of the customs area after completing immigration procedures;
Step 03: Customs Clearance
This is the final checkpoint before getting out the ariport.
For clearing customs, here is what you need to do:
- Choose appropriate lane;
- Green Channel: Nothing to declare
- Red Channel: Items to declare
- Show the Customs declaration form (if required);
- This step can take around 5 to 15 minutes;
Tips for saving time when arrival at SGN T2
When arriving in Vietnam, especially during peak hours, you may find yourself facing long lines and extended waiting times. The process can be stressful, with delays in clearing immigration and customs procedures. As a result, you can consider using our Fast Track services.
With our VIP Fast Track Immigration service, you can SKIP the lines and complete the whole Immigration process quickly. Our staff will meet and greet you at the arrival gate with your name on welcoming board, escort you to the Fast Track Line at Passport Control, and then support you to complete Passport Control Produre through Fast Track Line.
👉 Check here for more details of Fast Track services.
👉 If you have the next domestic flights to another city in Vietnam, you will need to transfer to T1 or T3 to get on board. Check here for the full guide how to tranfer from International to Domestic Terminal at Tan Son Nhat Airport (SGN).
Internet Connected: Wifi and Mobile Data Options
Connecting to the Internet is important for navigating a new city, or simply for calling a Grab. Here are your best options for internet access upon arrival at Tan Son Nhat Airport.
Airport Wifi
Tan Son Nhat Airport provides FREE wifi throughout both terminals. You can easily connect to Wifi named “Free Wi-Fi Tan Son Nhat Airport” or “TSN Free Wifi Express” without requiring a password. However, the the connection speed can be variable during peak hours while many people access to the network at the same time.
Traditional SIM Card (Physical card)
Vietnam local SIM cards are available at various telecom shops in the arrival hall where you can choose one suitable for you need.
When buying a Vietnam physical SIM card, please be noted:
- Ask the shop’s staff help you install and activate your SIM;
- Buying and activating SIM requires time and documentation (requires passport for registration);
- Cost ranges from 200,000 to 500,000 VND ($US 8 – 20);
- SIM plans include options for data only or data with calls;
- Valid for 07-30 days depending on the plans;
- Coverage from major providers: Viettel, Vinaphone, Mobifone;
- Setup may take 15 to 20 minutes;
Smart Choice: Vietnam eSIM
For a more convenient solution, it is highly advised that you get a Vietnam eSIM before your trip which you can buy online to get a QR code via email, and then scan the QR to connect when arrival.
With Vietnam eSIM, you can enjoy the numerous advantages such as:
- Connect instantly upon landing;
- No need to swap physical SIM cards;
- No need to register;
- Keep your home number active for calls/texts;
- Plans can include Vietnam phone numbers, data, and calls, SMS, etc.;
- Plans start from just $US10.9 – 19.9 for up to 30 days;
- Coverage from Vietnam’s best mobile operators: Viettel and Vinaphone;
- Data packages up to daily 5GB and more;
- Coverage throughout Vietnam;
👉 Find our more about Vietnam eSIM at https://vietnamvisaservice.net/vietnam-esim/.
Getting to Ho Chi Minh City Center
T2 Tan Son Nhat International Airport is located approximately 7km from the city center, therfore based on your budgets and preferences, here are some options for you to transfer from the airport to the city center.
Private Airport Transfer Service
If you are going in groups, going with senior or small children with a lot of luggage, using private airport transfer service is recommended. With this service, our staff will meet meet you at the agreed pick-up point, help you with the luggage and then drive you to the hotel straightforward.
Taxi
Traditional taxi options available at designated stands as below:
- Reliable companies: Vinasun, Mai Linh;
- Average cost: 300,000 VND ($US12);
- Journey time: 20 – 40 minutes;
- Tips: Look for official taxi counters at arrival hall;
Ride-Hailing Apps
Ride-hailing apps with transparent prices are now available at the airport, so you can choose it as well.
- Popular app: Grab, Be, Xanh SM;
- Cost: 110,000 – 250,000 VND ($US5 – 11);
- Advantage: Fixed price before booking;
- Pickup point: Follow app instructions to designated areas;
Public Buses
If you are going alone and want to experience the local style, public buses are great.
Most economical option with 04 main routes from the airport to the city center as below:
- Bus 109: Tan Son Nhat Airport – Saigon bus station (Cost: 20,000 VND);
- Bus 152: Tan Son Nhat Airport – Ben Thanh Market – Trung Son Residential Area (Cost: 10,000 VND);
- Bus 119: Tan Son Nhat Airport – Western Bus Station (Cost: 20,000 VND);
- Bus 49: Tan Son Nhat airport – City center (District 1, District 2) (Cost: 40,000 VND);
👉 Notes:
- Operating hours: 05:30 AM – 01:30 AM (varies from buses, please check in advance);
- Frequency: Every 15 – 30 minutes;
No matter you come to any country or any city, the good plan is essential as it can set the great basis for your entire trip. Hope this complete guide can help you By following this guide, you can start your trip to Vietnam and to Ho Chi Minh City best ever. And in case you need further assistance, contact us via Hotline/ WhatsApp/ Viber/ Zalo +84 86 517 8972, OR email sales@vmetravel.net.
Disclaimer: While we put an effort to ensure that the provided information is correct and up-to-date, there are probably changes which we are unaware of.
