You’ve booked the flight, packed the bags, and sorted your visa. There’s one more step that more and more travelers are discovering at the last minute: the pre-arrival information declaration.
It’s free, it takes only a few minutes, and it can make your arrival much smoother. Skip it, and you might spend your first minutes in Vietnam typing on your phone at the immigration hall instead of heading to your hotel. This guide explains what it is, who needs it, and exactly how to do it.
What Is the Pre-Arrival Information (PAI) Declaration?
It’s an online form run by Vietnam’s Immigration Department. You enter your personal details, visa information, and travel plans before you fly, and the system gives you a QR code to show at the border.
It’s important to be clear on one thing: it isn’t a visa. It is an online arrival-information declaration, not a visa. You still need a valid e-visa, visa, or exemption to enter Vietnam. The declaration simply speeds up the entry process.
The goal is to make things faster for everyone. The system helps air travelers cut down the time spent on entry procedures and reduces waiting time, especially during peak hours.
Important: A PAI declaration is not a Vietnam visa. You must still hold a valid e-Visa, another appropriate visa, or qualify for visa-free entry when required.
Is Vietnam Pre-Arrival Information Mandatory in 2026?
Vietnam launched the PAI system at Tan Son Nhat International Airport on April 15, 2026, before expanding it to other major international airports.
As of October 2026, Vietnamese official diplomatic guidance describes the system as operating on a voluntary, non-mandatory basis. However, airport-level instructions may differ, so travelers are strongly encouraged to complete the declaration before departure. Submitting your information in advance can help reduce delays and make your arrival more straightforward.
The system is currently available for foreign travelers entering Vietnam through several international airports, including:
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Noi Bai International Airport (HAN): Hanoi City
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Tan Son Nhat International Airport (SGN): Ho Chi Minh City
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Da Nang International Airport (DAD): Da Nang City
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Cam Ranh International Airport (CXR): Nha Trang City
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Phu Quoc International Airport (PQC): Phu Quoc Island
Check the latest airport instructions before traveling, as implementation may continue to expand.
When Should You Submit Your Pre-Arrival Information?
Travelers are encouraged to complete the declaration within three days before arriving in Vietnam.
For example, if your flight lands in Vietnam on Friday, you can prepare your declaration shortly before your trip rather than waiting until you arrive.
We recommend completing it once your flight details and accommodation arrangements are confirmed. If your travel plans change after submission, check whether your declaration needs to be updated.
What Documents and Information Do You Need?
Before opening the online form, prepare the following:
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Passport: Your passport number, nationality, full name, date of birth, and expiry date.
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Visa information: Your Vietnam e-Visa or other visa details, if applicable.
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Flight details: Flight number, arrival airport, and expected arrival date.
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Accommodation details: The name and address of your hotel or other accommodation in Vietnam.
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Contact details: A valid email address and phone number.
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Departure information: Your expected departure date, if requested.
Having everything ready makes the process much easier.
How to Submit Vietnam Pre-Arrival Information Online
The online declaration takes only a few straightforward steps.
Step 1: Visit the Official Pre-Arrival Website
Open the official Vietnam Immigration Department website:
https://prearrival.immigration.gov.vn
This is the official government platform for submitting pre-arrival information. Be careful with websites that imitate the immigration portal. You should not enter your passport details or payment information on an unfamiliar website.
Step 2: Choose Your Language
On the homepage, select your preferred language. The system supports several languages, including English, Vietnamese, Chinese, and French. For most international visitors, English will be the easiest option.
Step 3: Start a New Declaration
Select “Create & Submit Pre-arrival Information” or the equivalent option displayed on the website.
You may be asked to enter a CAPTCHA verification code before continuing. Follow the instructions shown on the screen.
Step 4: Enter Your Personal and Passport Information
Carefully complete the requested information using your passport. Typical details include your name, nationality, date of birth, passport number, and passport expiry date.
Double-check every field before moving on. A small mistake in your passport number or personal information can create unnecessary complications when you arrive.
Step 5: Provide Your Visa and Travel Details
Next, enter the requested information about your trip to Vietnam. This may include your visa details, flight number, arrival date, arrival airport, and accommodation address.
If you're entering Vietnam under a visa exemption, follow the declaration system's instructions for your entry status. Make sure the information matches your actual travel arrangements.
Step 6: Review and Submit Your Declaration
Before submitting, take a moment to review your answers. Check your passport information, visa details, arrival date, and flight number. Once everything is correct, submit the declaration through the official system.
Step 7: Save Your Immigration QR Code
After a successful submission, the system generates a confirmation QR code. Save the QR code on your phone or print a copy before departure.
Keep it somewhere easy to access because immigration officers may request it when you arrive in Vietnam. It's also a good idea to save your declaration reference number so you can look up or update your information if needed.
Do You Need to Pay for Vietnam Pre-Arrival Information Submission?
No. The official Vietnam Pre-Arrival Information declaration is free of charge.
Travelers can submit their information directly through the government website without paying an application fee. This is different from applying for a Vietnam e-Visa, which has an official government fee.
If a website asks you to pay for the government PAI declaration itself, verify that you're using the correct official portal.
What Happens After You Arrive in Vietnam?
When your flight lands, proceed toward immigration with your passport and travel documents.
Keep the following ready:
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Your valid passport.
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Your approved Vietnam visa or documents supporting visa-free entry, if applicable.
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Your PAI confirmation QR code.
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Other documents requested by immigration officers.
Follow the airport signs and the instructions of immigration staff.
The PAI system is designed to make processing more efficient, but it does not guarantee that you can skip immigration checks or avoid all queues. All travelers remain subject to normal entry and immigration requirements.
Can You Update Your Pre-Arrival Declaration?
If you discover a mistake or your travel arrangements change, visit the official PAI website and look for “Lookup & Update Declaration.”
Follow the instructions to retrieve your submitted declaration and check which details can be updated. Some information may require a new submission or further guidance from immigration officers. If your flight changes, update the relevant travel details whenever the system allows.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
A few simple precautions can help make your arrival smoother.
Incorrect passport details: Make sure the information matches your passport exactly.
Wrong flight number: Use the flight number for your arrival into Vietnam.
Incomplete accommodation information: Prepare the correct name and address of your hotel or accommodation.
Forgetting the QR code: Save a screenshot or downloaded copy before leaving for the airport.
Using an unofficial website: Always check the government domain before submitting sensitive information.
Confusing PAI with an e-Visa: Remember that the pre-arrival declaration does not replace a valid visa or visa exemption.
Vietnam Pre-Arrival Declaration vs. Vietnam e-Visa
Although both processes are completed online, they serve different purposes.
| Vietnam Pre-Arrival Information | Vietnam e-Visa |
|---|---|
| Provides travel details before arrival | Provides an official visa |
| Free government declaration | Government visa fee applies |
| Generates a confirmation QR code | Generates an approved electronic visa |
| Supports airport immigration procedures | Authorizes travel and entry subject to immigration checks |
| Does not replace a visa | May be required before boarding |
If you need a visa for Vietnam, make sure your application is approved before traveling, even if you've already completed your PAI declaration.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the pre-arrival declaration the same as a visa?
No. It’s an arrival information form. You still need a valid visa or exemption.
Who has to complete it?
Foreign travelers entering Vietnam by air are generally required to. Check the official portal and your embassy for the latest scope and details.
Can I do it at the airport?
Yes, there’s an on-arrival option via QR code or paper form, but it’s much easier and faster to do it before you fly.
What if I lose my QR code?
Check your email for your confirmation. If you can’t find it, submit the declaration again on the official portal, and keep a screenshot this time.
When should I complete the declaration?
Travelers are encouraged to complete it within three days before arriving in Vietnam.