Important Notes for Foreigners Carrying Out Entry Procedures into Vietnam

To support international visitors in completing immigration procedures smoothly, safely, and in compliance with Vietnamese regulations, the Ho Chi Minh City Immigration Office has released several important guidelines for foreigners entering and staying in Vietnam.

Accordingly, travelers should prepare all required entry documents, including a valid passport or international travel document, visa, visa exemption certificate, or other lawful residence documents in accordance with Vietnamese law. Visitors are also advised to carefully check personal information, validity periods, and the stated purpose of entry on all relevant documents before departure.

Foreign nationals are required to provide truthful and accurate declarations following instructions from competent authorities and carriers. All declared information must match the details shown on passports, visas, and related documents. The use of forged documents, false declarations, or entry for improper purposes is strictly prohibited.

Currently, foreign visitors can proactively complete pre-arrival declarations through the Pre-Arrival Immigration (PAI) system at: prearrival.immigration.gov.vn

Travelers are encouraged to complete the declaration before departure in order to shorten processing time at immigration checkpoints, reduce congestion, and improve the arrival experience in Vietnam.

During immigration procedures at border gates and airports, visitors should cooperate with immigration officers, comply with security and public order regulations, and present relevant documents when requested.

After entering Vietnam, foreign nationals are responsible for checking the duration of temporary residence granted by competent authorities. In cases where extended stay is required, procedures related to visa extension, renewal, or temporary residence card issuance should be completed before the permitted residence period expires.

In addition, foreigners staying in Vietnam are required to comply with temporary residence declaration regulations. Online temporary residence declaration is available at: tbltktb.bocongan.gov.vn

All activities conducted during the stay in Vietnam must be consistent with the declared purpose of entry. Foreign nationals working in Vietnam must possess valid work permits or other lawful documents as prescribed by Vietnamese law.

Ho Chi Minh City warmly welcomes international visitors with a spirit of friendliness, safety, and convenience. Compliance with immigration and residence regulations will help ensure a smooth journey while protecting the lawful rights and interests of travelers during their stay in Vietnam.

Source: Quản lý xuất nhập cảnh TPHCM – HCMC Immigration Office