Online Pre-Arrival Declaration at Tan Son Nhat Airport

Starting from April 15, 2026, Vietnam has introduced a new immigration regulation at Tan Son Nhat International Airport in Ho Chi Minh City. Under this policy, most international travelers are now required to complete an online pre-arrival declaration before entering the country. This marks a significant step toward digitalizing border control and improving passenger processing efficiency.

Who Must Complete the Online Pre-Arrival Declaration?

The new rule applies to a broad group of travelers, including:

• All foreign passport holders, regardless of visa status (Vietnam visa free, Vietnam e-visa, or Vietnam VOA);
• Overseas Vietnamese entering Vietnam using foreign passports and valid visas;

However, some travelers are exempt:

• Vietnamese citizens using Vietnamese passports;
• Transit passengers who do not pass through Immigration;

This requirement is currently implemented only at Tan Son Nhat Airport, but authorities are expected to expand it to other international airports in the future.

Tan Son Nhat Airport, the busiest in Vietnam, has long experienced heavy congestion, with long queues during peak hours. Therefore, the new system is expected to streamline procedures and improve the overall arrival experience by:

• Reducing congestion at immigration checkpoints;
• Shortening processing time for arriving passengers;
• Replacing traditional paper arrival forms with a digital system;
• Enhancing data management and border security;

Step-by-Step Online Pre-Arrival Declaration Process

To comply with the new regulation, travelers should follow these steps:

1. Complete the Online Form Before Departure

Here are detailed guides of filling out the online declaration form.

First of all, visit the website https://prearrival.immigration.gov.vn/.

Passengers must access the official pre-arrival portal and fill in required information, including:

• Personal details (full name, date of birth, nationality);
• Passport information (passport number, expiry date);
• Flight details and arrival date;
• Accommodation address in Vietnam (hotel name and address);
• Purpose of visit and health declaration;

2. Receive a QR Code Confirmation

After submitting the form, travelers will receive a QR code via the system. This code serves as proof of completion and must be saved (either digitally or printed).

3. Present the QR Code at Immigration

Upon arrival at Tan Son Nhat Airport:

• Proceed to immigration counters;
• Present your passport, Vietnam visa (if required), and QR code;
• The QR code will be scanned to retrieve your pre-submitted information;

What If I Don’t Complete Online Pre-arrival Declaration Form?

Travelers who fail to complete the declaration in advance may still be allowed entry, but you can expect:

• Longer waiting times;
• Additional manual processing at the airport;

Notes: Some airlines may also require proof of the QR code before boarding in some cases.

Important Notes for Travelers

• The pre-arrival declaration does not replace visa requirement. You must still obtain the appropriate visa if needed.
• It is recommended to complete the form at least 24 – 48 hours before departure;
• Always double-check your information, as errors may invalidate your QR code;
• Keep both digital and printed copies as backup;

The mandatory online pre-arrival declaration at Tan Son Nhat Airport represents a major shift in Vietnam’s immigration procedures. While it introduces an additional step for travelers, the system is designed to make arrivals faster, more efficient, and better aligned with global digital travel trends.

You also may need:

• Arrival guide at Tan Son Nhat Airport;
• Transfer from Tan Son Nhat to HCMC;

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.