Tan Son Nhat International Airport Arrival & Immigration Guide (2025)

Tan Son Nhat International Airport (SGN), located in Ho Chi Minh City, is Vietnam’s busiest air hub, serving millions of international travelers each year. Whether you are arriving with an approved e-visa, seeking a visa on arrival, or using urgent visa services, understanding the arrival and immigration process is crucial for a smooth entry into Vietnam.

This 2025 guide provides step-by-step instructions, urgent visa options, and practical tips to save time at immigration counters.

1. Before You Fly to Tan Son Nhat Airport

Foreign visitors should ensure they are fully prepared before boarding their flight to Vietnam.

Essential requirements:

Valid passport (at least 6 months remaining)
Vietnam visa or e-visa approval letter (printed copy)
Travel itinerary and return/onward ticket (sometimes requested)
Hotel booking confirmation or proof of accommodation

Urgent visa options if you forgot to apply in advance:

1-hour urgent visa – $195
2-hour urgent visa – $165
5-hour urgent visa – $135
1-day urgent visa – $100
2-day urgent visa – $85
3-day urgent visa – $80

If you realize too late that you don’t have a valid visa, our team can arrange an emergency approval letter while you’re in transit or even after landing.

Contact us immediately:

WhatsApp: +84 947754252
Email: visavietnamonlinev@gmail.com

2. Arrival Procedures at Tan Son Nhat Airport

Upon landing at SGN, follow these steps for a smooth arrival:

Step 1 – Deplane and follow arrival signs

Once you exit the aircraft, follow “International Arrivals” signs toward the immigration area. Tan Son Nhat has two separate terminals (domestic and international) – ensure you are in the international arrival hall.

Step 2 – Visa verification (if applicable)

E-visa holders: Go directly to the immigration counter. Present your printed e-visa and passport.
Visa on arrival: Head to the “Landing Visa / Visa on Arrival” counter before immigration. Submit:
- Passport
- Visa approval letter
- Completed entry/exit form
- Two passport photos (4x6 cm)
- Visa stamping fee (cash in USD or VND)

Step 3 – Immigration control

The immigration officer will:

Verify your documents
Take your photo and fingerprints
Stamp your passport with your entry date

Step 4 – Baggage claim

Proceed to the baggage carousel and collect your luggage. Verify baggage tags to avoid confusion.

Step 5 – Customs declaration

If you have items to declare (cash over USD 10,000, valuable goods, or restricted items), submit the customs form. Otherwise, go through the “Nothing to Declare” green lane.

3. How Urgent Visa Support Works at Tan Son Nhat

If you arrive without a valid visa or face unexpected issues (e.g., airline staff refusing boarding), our emergency visa service can help.

What we do:

Issue a last-minute approval letter (from 1 hour to 3 days depending on your need)
Meet you at the airport to ensure smooth processing
Provide Fast Track Service to skip long queues

This service is available 24/7 for passengers in transit or landing soon.

4. Fast Track & VIP Arrival Services

To save time at Vietnam’s busiest airport:

Fast Track Service: Our staff will meet you at the gate, escort you through priority immigration lanes, and assist with luggage.
VIP Meet & Greet: Includes lounge access, porter service, and expedited clearance.

These services are highly recommended during peak travel seasons to avoid delays.

5. Tips for a Smooth Arrival at SGN

Keep your visa documents printed – some airlines require them at check-in.
Carry small USD bills – in case you need to pay stamping fees in cash.
Use official airport taxis or ride-hailing apps to avoid scams.
Allow extra time for connecting flights – immigration queues can take 30–60 minutes.
Double-check your passport stamp – ensure it matches your intended stay period.