Landing in Vietnam for the first time? The arrival process at Vietnamese international airports follows the same basic steps everywhere: leave the aircraft, pass through immigration, collect your bags, clear customs and exit to the arrival hall. Knowing what to expect at each step makes the whole process faster and less stressful.
Here is a step-by-step guide to the Vietnam airport arrival process, with practical tips for each stage.
Step 1: Leave the Aircraft and Follow the Arrival Signs
After landing, follow the signs for Arrivals and Immigration. At some airports you walk through an aerobridge directly into the terminal; at others a shuttle bus takes you from the aircraft to the terminal building. Make sure you have your passport, travel documents and a pen within easy reach before you leave your seat.
Step 2: Immigration (Passport Control)
Immigration is usually the longest part of the arrival process. Officers check your passport and entry documents one by one, and when several international flights land at the same time, the general queue can become long, especially in the evening and during holiday periods.
- Have your passport open at the photo page and your entry documents ready.
- Remove sunglasses and hats when you reach the counter.
- Keep your hotel address handy in case you are asked where you are staying.
- Families should stay together in the same line.
This is where arrival fast track makes the biggest difference: instead of joining the general queue, you are escorted to a priority lane.
Step 3: Collect Your Baggage
After immigration, check the screens for your flight number and baggage belt. Trolleys are available in the baggage hall. If your bag does not arrive, report it at the lost-baggage counter before you leave the baggage hall, and keep your report reference number. For items left in the terminal or on the plane, see our guide to the lost and found counter at Tan Son Nhat Airport.
Step 4: Customs
Before you exit, your bags may be scanned at customs. If you are carrying items that must be declared under Vietnamese regulations, use the declaration channel; otherwise follow the signs for passengers with nothing to declare. If you are unsure, ask a customs officer before you exit.
Step 5: Arrival Hall and Onward Transport
Once you leave customs you are in the public arrival hall, where you will usually find SIM card counters, currency exchange, ATMs and transport options. Common ways to get to your hotel are:
- Taxi: use the official taxi queue outside the terminal.
- Ride-hailing apps: book from the app and go to the marked pick-up area.
- Pre-booked private car: your driver meets you in the arrival hall.
- Airport bus: a budget option at the larger airports.
How Long Does the Arrival Process Take?
It varies a lot. On a quiet day you may be out of the airport fairly quickly; when several long-haul flights arrive together, waiting at immigration alone can stretch to an hour or more. Baggage delivery time also depends on the airline and the size of the aircraft.
How Airport Assistance Makes Arrival Easier
With Vietnam Airport Assistance, a coordinator meets you with a name sign and guides you through every step above:
- Fast track lane at passport control instead of the general queue.
- Help with your bags at the baggage belt (VIP Fast Track and higher).
- Escort to the arrival hall to meet your driver.
- Aircraft-door pick-up with VIP B and CIP, and a private car to your hotel with CIP.
Read how our meet and greet service works, compare packages in the fast track price guide, or see whether fast track is worth it for your trip.
Arrival Tips by Airport
- Ho Chi Minh City – Tan Son Nhat (SGN): Vietnam’s busiest airport. Read our tips on peak hours at Tan Son Nhat.
- Hanoi – Noi Bai (HAN): the main gateway to northern Vietnam.
- Da Nang (DAD), Cam Ranh (CXR) and Phu Quoc (PQC): popular beach destinations with busy holiday seasons.
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I have ready before immigration?
Your passport, your entry documents and your hotel address. Keep them together in your hand luggage.
Can someone meet me before immigration?
Yes. With our arrival fast track, staff meet you before the immigration area, or at the aircraft door with VIP B and CIP. Book arrival assistance.
What if my checked bag is missing?
Report it at the lost-baggage counter in the baggage hall before you exit, and keep the reference number. Your airline handles missing checked baggage.
New to Vietnam? Read First Time in Vietnam: Everything You Need to Know Before You Land and our complete guide to Vietnam airport assistance.
