Congratulations, your Vietnam e-visa is approved! You’re one step closer to your adventure. Now, let’s ensure your arrival is as smooth as your application.
Here is your essential checklist of do’s and don’ts for entering Vietnam with an e-visa.
Before You Leave Home: The Pre-Arrival Checklist
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✅ DO Print Your E-visa. This is the most important step. You must have a physical paper copy. Airlines may deny boarding without it, and immigration will require it. Print two copies just in case.
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✅ DO Double-Check All Details. Make sure the name, passport number, and entry port on your e-visa perfectly match your passport and flight tickets.
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✅ DO Check Your Passport Validity. Ensure your passport still has at least 6 months of validity from your entry date.
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✅ DO Have Your First Hotel Address Ready. It’s helpful to have the address and phone number of your first accommodation saved on your phone.
At the Immigration Counter: The Arrival Process
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✅ DO Follow the Signs for “E-visa”. Major airports like Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City have dedicated lanes for e-visa holders. This is usually faster than the Visa on Arrival queue.
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✅ DO Present Your Documents Confidently. Hand over your passport and the printed copy of your e-visa to the immigration officer.
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❌ DON’T Use Your Phone in the Immigration Area. It is strictly prohibited. Keep your phone away until you have cleared the immigration checkpoint.
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✅ DO Be Polite and Patient. The process is usually quick, but be prepared to answer simple questions like “What is the purpose of your visit?” or “How long will you stay?”.
After Immigration: First Steps in Vietnam
You’ve officially entered Vietnam! Here’s what to do next in the arrivals hall.
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✅ DO Get a Local SIM Card. Booths for major providers like Viettel, Vinaphone, and Mobifone are located right after baggage claim. A tourist SIM with data is cheap (around $10-15 USD) and essential for using maps and ride-hailing apps.
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❌ DON’T Exchange All Your Money at the Airport. The exchange rates are rarely the best. Change a small amount (
50−100) for immediate needs like a taxi, and exchange the rest at a gold shop or bank in the city for a better rate.
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✅ DO Use a Reputable Taxi or Ride-Hailing App.
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Best Option: Use the Grab app to book a car or motorbike.
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Good Option: Use official airport taxis like Vinasun (white with green and red stripes) or Mai Linh (green). Follow the signs to the official taxi queue.
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❌ DON’T Accept Rides from Touts. Ignore individuals who approach you in the arrivals hall offering a “cheap taxi.” These often lead to scams or heavily inflated fares.
⭐ Your smooth journey starts with a valid visa.
If you haven’t applied yet, get your e-visa with our trusted service to ensure a worry-free arrival.
Apply for a Vietnam E-Visa Now →