If you are planning to visit Vietnam, there is one thing that has become mandatory for everyone before you even board the flight. Passengers arriving at Tan Son Nhat International Airport are now expected to fill out an e-arrival card before arriving. This change, mandated by the Vietnam Immigration Department, took effect on April 15th, 2026. So no more waiting at the airport to complete any form on arrival. Your information is entered ahead of time, which expedites immigration procedures and the queues you face after a long flight.
What You Need to Do Before You Travel
Here’s where you need to be prepared. The digital arrival form needs to be filled out at least 72 hours prior to entering Vietnam. You can find it on the pre-arrival declaration website, and upon submission, you will be provided with a QR code. You can display this on your phone or print it out and the immigration officer will scan it on arrival. It would be best to have both during your trip. Also, there is no extra cost for filling out this form.
The form is easy to fill out and asks for the information that you already have, such as your:
- Passport number
- Visa or e-visa number
- Flight details
- Information about the hotel you are planning to stay at.
At the moment, this is only applicable for those flying into Tan Son Nhat International Airport. If your destination is any other airport including Noi Bai International Airport or Da Nang International Airport, the current process remains unchanged. However, this e-system may be applied to these airports in the future.
Who Needs to Follow this and Why it Matters
It applies to almost all international visitors, including those with an Indian passport travelling to Vietnam for vacation, business, or applying for an e-visa. Even if you’re a transit passenger who has to pass immigration, you will be required to fill out a form. But do note that Vietnamese citizens may have a few exceptions.
If you’re an Indian flying to Ho Chi Minh City, this requirement is now part of your travel checklist. If not, you may face delays at the airport and that’s not what you need after a long journey. If you want your arrival to go smoothly, fill out this form early, check your details twice and keep your QR code ready in both digital and printed form.
Vietnam is clearly embracing a new, more modern travel process. Getting traveler’s data sorted out ahead of time makes the flow at the airport faster and more efficient, taking away the stress of your arrival. Vietnam Tour Packages offer an easy way to explore top destinations with well-planned travel and a smooth experience.
