Vietnam introduces mandatory pre-arrival declaration for foreign visitors to Ho Chi Minh City

Foreign nationals entering Vietnam through Tan Son Nhat International Airport in Ho Chi Minh City must now complete a mandatory pre-arrival declaration before landing, under a new requirement that took effect on Wednesday (Apr. 15).

The new rule applies to foreign nationals entering Vietnam as well as overseas Vietnamese using visas, according to Vietnam’s immigration authorities, reported Viet Nam News.

Travellers must submit their personal and travel details online before arrival, after which they will receive a QR code to present to immigration officers upon entry.

Who needs to submit the declaration

The Ho Chi Minh City Immigration Office said the declaration requires travellers to provide identification details, a passport photo, trip information and accommodation details through Vietnam’s official pre-arrival portal, reported Vietnam News.

Vietnamese citizens travelling on Vietnamese passports are exempt from the requirement, as are transit passengers who do not pass through immigration.

Officials also cautioned that travellers who fail to complete the declaration before arrival may face longer waiting times at immigration counters.

The declaration can be submitted through Vietnam’s official pre-arrival portal at https://prearrival.immigration.gov.vn/ or by scanning a QR code provided through official channels.

Aimed at easing congestion

The measure currently applies only at Tan Son Nhat airport, Vietnam’s busiest international gateway, and has not yet been introduced at other airports such as Noi Bai International Airport. Authorities have not said when a wider rollout may happen.

Vietnam said the move is intended to modernise immigration procedures, shorten inspection times and reduce congestion at Tan Son Nhat, according to Tuoi Tre News, which frequently sees heavy passenger traffic.

Airlines, travel companies and related agencies have also been asked to inform passengers of the requirement before departure to help smoothen implementation.

Top images via Canva, HCMC Immigration Office/Facebook