Planning a trip to Vietnam in 2026 comes with an important update that every international traveler should understand before boarding their flight, because starting from April 15, 2026, the entry process at Tan Son Nhat International Airport has been enhanced with a new digital pre-arrival declaration system designed to make immigration faster, smoother, and far more efficient than before.
This change, introduced by the Vietnam Immigration Department, reflects a broader effort to modernize border control procedures, reduce long queues during peak arrival hours, and improve the overall first impression for travelers entering Vietnam, especially at one of the country’s busiest international gateways.
For travelers who prepare in advance, this new system can significantly reduce waiting time at immigration counters, but for those who overlook it, it may lead to unnecessary delays upon arrival, which is why understanding the process before your trip is essential.
What Is the Vietnam Pre-Arrival Declaration System?
The pre-arrival declaration is an online form that allows travelers to submit their personal, travel, and visa information before landing in Vietnam, after which they will receive a QR code that can be presented directly to immigration officers upon arrival.
Instead of manually filling out forms or answering repeated questions at the airport, your data is already stored in the system, allowing immigration officers to process your entry more quickly and efficiently, especially during busy travel seasons.
This system is part of Vietnam’s ongoing digital transformation strategy in tourism and immigration, aiming to create a more seamless and traveler-friendly experience from the moment you arrive.
Who Needs to Complete the Declaration?
According to Official Dispatch No. 1474/CACK TSN, the regulation applies specifically to certain groups of travelers, and understanding whether you fall into one of these categories will determine whether you need to complete the form.
Required to Complete the Declaration
- Foreign nationals traveling with non-Vietnamese passports
- Overseas Vietnamese (Viet Kieu) entering Vietnam using a visa
Exempt from the Requirement
- Vietnamese citizens using Vietnamese passports
- Transit passengers who do not pass through immigration
If you are entering Vietnam as a tourist, business traveler, or visitor using a foreign passport, you should assume that this declaration is required for you.
When Should You Complete the Pre-Arrival Form?
The declaration can be completed up to 72 hours before your arrival, and while it is technically possible to complete it closer to your landing time, it is strongly recommended that you finish it before your flight departs.
Doing it early ensures that you:
- Avoid last-minute technical issues
- Have your QR code ready offline
- Reduce stress upon arrival
Travelers who arrive without completing the declaration may still be processed, but they are likely to experience longer waiting times compared to those who have already submitted their information.
Step-by-Step Guide to Completing the Declaration
To make the process as clear as possible, here is a complete step-by-step breakdown that you can follow before your trip.
Step 1: Access the Official Portal
Visit the official website:
https://prearrival.immigration.gov.vn/
Once you access the page:
- Select your preferred language
- Click on “Create and Submit Declaration”
- Enter the CAPTCHA code to proceed
Make sure you are using the official website to avoid errors or incorrect submissions.
Step 2: Enter Passenger Information
In this section, you will provide your core personal and travel identity details, and it is important that everything matches your passport exactly.
You will need to fill in:
- Expected arrival date
- Passport number
- Full name
- Gender
Under the visa section, select your visa type carefully:
- E-visa
- Visa exemption
- Temporary residence card
Then enter:
- Visa number
- Issue date
- Expiry date
If you are traveling with family members, you can add their information within the same declaration to simplify the process.
Step 3: Provide Flight and Accommodation Details
Next, you will input details about your journey and stay in Vietnam, which helps immigration authorities understand your travel purpose and itinerary.
Required information includes:
- Departure location
- Purpose of entry (tourism, business, visiting family, etc.)
- Flight number
- Address of stay in Vietnam (hotel or private residence)
- Intended departure date from Vietnam
Be as accurate as possible, especially with your accommodation details, as this information may be referenced during your stay.
Step 4: Submit and Receive Your QR Code
After reviewing all your information carefully, you will:
- Tick the confirmation box
- Click “Submit”
Once submitted, the system will generate a QR code and send it to your registered email address.
Make sure to:
- Save it on your phone
- Take a screenshot
- Or print a physical copy as backup
What Happens When You Arrive at Tan Son Nhat Airport?
When you land at Tan Son Nhat International Airport, the process becomes much simpler if you have already completed your declaration.
Instead of starting from scratch, you simply:
- Present your QR code (digital or printed)
- Proceed to immigration
Since your data is already in the system, officers can process your entry faster, allowing you to move through the airport more efficiently, especially during busy arrival periods.
Why This New System Matters for Travelers
At first glance, the pre-arrival declaration might seem like just another step in the travel process, but in reality, it plays a significant role in shaping your arrival experience.
Vietnam, particularly Ho Chi Minh City, receives a high volume of international travelers daily, and during peak hours, immigration lines can become long and slow-moving, which is exactly what this system aims to solve.
By completing your declaration in advance, you are essentially skipping part of that process, allowing you to:
- Reduce waiting time
- Avoid unnecessary stress
- Start your trip more smoothly
For travelers arriving after long international flights, this small preparation can make a noticeable difference.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Is the pre-arrival declaration mandatory?
Yes, it is mandatory for foreign nationals and Overseas Vietnamese using visas who enter Vietnam through Tan Son Nhat Airport.
What happens if I don’t complete the form before arrival?
You may still be allowed to enter, but you should expect longer processing times and possible delays at immigration.
Do I need internet access at the airport?
It is highly recommended to save your QR code beforehand, either as a screenshot or printed copy, so you do not depend on airport internet.
Can I complete the form at the airport?
While technically possible, it is not recommended due to time constraints and potential connectivity issues.
Final Travel Tip
Traveling to Vietnam in 2026 is becoming more streamlined and digital, and while these changes are designed to improve the overall experience, they also require a bit more preparation from travelers.
Taking just a few minutes to complete your pre-arrival declaration before your flight can save you a significant amount of time and ensure that your journey into Vietnam starts smoothly, without unnecessary delays or confusion.
For a destination known for its vibrant culture, warm hospitality, and dynamic energy, a smooth arrival sets the tone for everything that follows — and this small step helps you get there faster.
