Vietnam is an increasingly popular travel destination, known for its stunning landscapes, rich culture, and delicious cuisine. Whether you’re traveling for tourism, business, or a family visit, entering Vietnam involves a few administrative steps. One crucial document that international travelers must be aware of is the Vietnam arrival card. In this article, we will provide a comprehensive overview of what the Vietnam arrival card is, whether you need it, and how and where you can obtain one. Our aim is to make your entry into Vietnam smooth and stress-free.
What Is a Vietnam Arrival Card?
The Vietnam arrival card, sometimes referred to as an entry-exit form, is a document that travelers may be required to complete and present upon arriving at a Vietnamese airport. This form contains essential information such as your personal details, travel purpose, visa type, and accommodation address. In essence, it is a formality that aids Vietnamese immigration authorities in processing arrivals efficiently and keeping accurate records of incoming visitors.
Is the Vietnam Arrival Card Still Required in 2025?
Over the past few years, Vietnam has significantly modernized its immigration processes. The traditional paper-based arrival card, which was previously a mandatory requirement for all foreigners arriving at airports, has been phased out for many travelers. As of 2025, the requirement for an arrival card depends largely on your method of entry, visa type, and nationality.
For travelers entering Vietnam under the e-visa system or via visa exemption agreements, the arrival card is generally not required. However, if you are arriving with a visa on arrival (VOA) or through specific consular arrangements, you may still be asked to complete an arrival form or provide equivalent documentation at the immigration counter.
Who Needs a Vietnam Arrival Card?
The need for a Vietnam arrival card typically applies to the following groups:
- Travelers applying for a visa on arrival (VOA)
- Foreigners entering Vietnam for long-term work or business
- Citizens from countries not covered by visa exemptions or e-visa eligibility
- Travelers entering Vietnam through land or sea border crossings
Where Can You Get a Vietnam Arrival Card?
If you’re required to fill out a Vietnam arrival card, there are several ways to obtain one:
At the Airport Upon Arrival
One of the most common ways to get a Vietnam arrival card is at the airport. Upon arrival at one of Vietnam’s international airports—such as Tan Son Nhat (Ho Chi Minh City), Noi Bai (Hanoi), or Da Nang—you’ll find arrival cards available at the visa-on-arrival counter or immigration desk. These cards are usually distributed freely and are available in English, Vietnamese, and sometimes other major languages.
Download from Official Websites
Some travelers prefer to prepare their documents in advance. While the Vietnamese Immigration Department does not always provide a downloadable arrival card on their site, many authorized visa service providers and travel agencies offer free PDF versions of the form.
Make sure you download the correct and updated version of the arrival card if you choose to fill it out before your trip.
From Travel Agencies or Visa Agents
If you are applying for a visa on arrival through a travel agency or visa agent, they will typically send you an arrival card along with your visa approval letter. In this case, you’ll need to print it out and fill it in before your flight to Vietnam. This method can save you time at the airport, especially during busy tourist seasons.
At Vietnamese Embassies and Consulates
If you are applying for your visa at a Vietnamese embassy or consulate abroad, the arrival card may be included in your visa packet. Staff at the consular office can guide you on how to fill it out properly. This is more common with long-term visa applicants, such as students or expatriate workers.
How to Fill Out the Vietnam Arrival Card
The arrival card is a straightforward form, but it’s important to complete it accurately. Typical sections include:
- Full name (as in your passport)
- Date of birth
- Nationality
- Passport number
- Visa approval number (for VOA applicants)
- Entry and exit dates
- Purpose of visit (tourism, business, etc.)
- Address in Vietnam
It’s advisable to bring a pen with you and complete the form before landing if you already have a printed copy. This helps avoid delays upon arrival.
What Happens After Submitting the Arrival Card?
After filling out the arrival card, VOA applicants will typically submit it at the visa-on-arrival counter along with:
- Your passport (valid for at least 6 months)
- Visa approval letter
- Two passport-sized photos
- Visa stamping fee (usually in USD)
Once processed, your passport will be returned with the visa stamp. You can then proceed to the immigration booth for final clearance into Vietnam. Travelers without the VOA requirement can proceed directly to immigration without submitting a separate arrival card.
Tips for a Smooth Arrival in Vietnam
To ensure a seamless arrival experience, consider the following tips:
- Confirm your visa type and whether you need an arrival card well before travel
- Print your visa approval letter and bring extra copies
- Carry USD in small denominations for visa fees
- Have two recent passport photos ready
- Keep your accommodation details handy
- Download and complete the arrival card if applicable before departure
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Travelers often encounter issues due to small oversights. Common mistakes include:
- Using a passport that will expire in less than six months
- Filling out the wrong version of the arrival card
- Bringing blurry or incorrect-sized passport photos
- Failing to carry the visa approval letter
- Assuming e-visa travelers still need to submit an arrival card (they generally do not)
Vietnam Arrival Card for Land and Sea Entry
If you are entering Vietnam by land (e.g., from Cambodia or Laos) or sea (via cruise ships), arrival procedures can vary. At land crossings, arrival cards may still be in use, especially for travelers without e-visas. Cruise passengers typically have arrival formalities handled by the cruise line, but it’s good practice to verify whether a personal arrival card is required before disembarkation.
FAQs About the Vietnam Arrival Card
Do I need to pay for the arrival card?
No, the arrival card is free of charge. However, the visa stamping fee at the airport is separate and must be paid in cash (usually in USD).
Can I complete the arrival card online?
As of 2025, there is no official online system for submitting the arrival card digitally. You can only fill out and submit the paper form at the airport or in person.
Is the arrival card the same as the visa application form?
No. The arrival card is used upon entry to Vietnam, whereas the visa application form is part of the pre-travel visa application process. They serve different purposes.
Conclusion
The Vietnam arrival card is a relatively minor but essential part of the immigration process for certain travelers. Although many international visitors no longer need to complete an arrival card thanks to streamlined e-visa procedures, those entering on a visa on arrival or via land and sea borders may still encounter this requirement. Being informed and prepared will help you avoid unnecessary delays or complications during your entry into Vietnam.
If you’re uncertain whether an arrival card is required in your case, consult your visa provider or check the official immigration site.
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