TEMPO.CO, Jakarta – Travelers planning a visit to Vietnam should take note of the latest entry regulations. Effective April 15, 2026, foreign visitors and Vietnamese citizens residing abroad are required to complete a digital arrival declaration prior to reaching the immigration checkpoints.
This policy has been implemented as part of the efforts to modernize border controls and alleviate congestion. According to a report by Travel and Leisure Asia, the measure aims to enhance the arrival experience for international passengers in the often overcrowded southern metropolis.
At present, the system is exclusively enforced at the arrival terminal of Tan Son Nhat International Airport in Ho Chi Minh City. Authorities have yet to confirm if or when this digital requirement will be expanded to other entry points across the country, such as Noi Bai International Airport.
These requirements apply to foreign nationals entering Vietnam and Vietnamese citizens abroad traveling on a visa. Vietnamese passport holders are exempt, as are transit passengers who do not pass through immigration control.
How to Fill in the Arrival Declaration
Travelers are advised to complete the arrival form via the official website, prearrival.immigration.gov.vn, within 72 hours of their scheduled arrival. It is important to note that the system will not accept submissions made earlier than this 72-hour window.
The required information includes passport details, flight numbers, accommodation addresses, and the purpose of the visit. Once the form is submitted, travelers will receive a QR code via email, which must be retained and presented to immigration officers upon arrival.
What happens if a traveler fails to complete the declaration? According to a report by Time Out, travelers will not be denied entry but may face significantly longer processing times at immigration.
Therefore, visitors are urged to ensure all provided information is accurate and complete. Airlines and travel agents are also encouraged to proactively inform passengers of these requirements before departure.
By gathering traveler information in advance, authorities intend to simplify immigration procedures and reduce bottlenecks in arrival halls. This approach also bolsters security by allowing for the pre-screening of passenger data.
Furthermore, Vietnam considers this move aligns with a global shift toward digital border management, as nations increasingly adopt technology to improve efficiency and passenger comfort. Across Southeast Asia, including Indonesia, Thailand, and Laos, governments are updating entry systems to be faster, paperless, and more interconnected.
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