All international travelers must fill out a Vietnam customs declaration form if they are carrying items exceeding duty-free allowances, large sums of currency, or restricted goods. For most regular travelers, no declaration is needed unless required by customs.
Duty-Free Allowances (2025)
Item
Allowance
Cigarettes
200 sticks
Cigars
100 pieces
Tobacco
500 grams
Alcohol
1.5 liters of spirits (>22%), or 2 liters wine, or 3 liters beer
Perfume & Cosmetics
Small personal use quantities
Cash
Declare if over USD 5,000 (or equivalent)
Restricted & Prohibited Items
Restricted (require permission)
Medications in large quantities
Cultural products (books, films) subject to censorship
Professional cameras, drones (may require permit)
Prohibited
Weapons, explosives
Narcotics & banned substances
Counterfeit goods
Endangered wildlife products
Vietnam Customs Declaration Process at Airport
Arrive at customs after passport control
Choose Green Channel (nothing to declare) or Red Channel (items to declare)
If declaring, submit completed form & documents
Proceed through baggage screening if requested
Tips for Travelers
Keep receipts for high-value electronics
Declare if unsure – penalties for undeclared items are higher
Carry prescription medicine in original packaging with doctor’s note
Check latest rules from Vietnam Customs before flying
Check Visa Requirements
Estimated Total Cost: $0.00 Includes Vietnam government eVisa fee and service assistance fee
FAQ – Vietnam Customs Rules
How much cash can I bring to Vietnam?
You may bring up to USD 5,000 (or equivalent) without declaration. Any higher amount must be declared.
Do I need to declare laptops or cameras?
No, if for personal use. Only professional or multiple units may require declaration.
What happens if I don’t declare restricted items?
Failure to declare may result in fines, confiscation, or entry denial.