Vietnam Now Requires Pre-Arrival Card for Phu Quoc Airport Arrivals

Vietnam has taken a major step forward in travel documentation this year. Since April 15, 2026 at Tan Son Nhat International Airport (Ho Chi Minh City) and starting June 1, 2026 at Phu Quoc International Airport, authorities now require a new digital document for entry: the pre-arrival card.

Official submission platform: prearrival.immigration.gov.vn

The PAI System or Form NA1: What’s the Difference?

In 2026, the “Arrival Card” process actually involves two separate documents—it’s important not to confuse them:

• The Vietnam Digital Arrival Card (PAI System): This new online declaration is entirely free of charge. It consolidates your flight details, passport data, and accommodation information. Upon completion, it generates a QR code that immigration officers will scan upon landing.

• The Form NA1 (paper format): This is the traditional yellow entry and exit form. It’s still required only if you’re applying for a Visa on Arrival (VOA) at the airport counter or traveling via land or sea borders.

Which Vietnamese Airports Are Affected?

The rollout of this new requirement is being implemented in stages. The government logically began with the country’s busiest gateways, where immigration queues at times approached two hours.

Who Must Submit the Customs Declaration?

The answer is straightforward: the vast majority of foreign travelers arriving at SGN or PQC are required to comply:

• e-Visa holders: Yes, you must present both your e-Visa and the Arrival Card QR code.

• Visa-exempt nationals: Yes—even if no visa needs to be presented, the digital declaration is mandatory.

• Visa on Arrival applicants: Yes (in addition to the paper NA1 form).

• Minors: Yes. Each traveler, regardless of age, must have a separate declaration. Parents may complete the form on behalf of their child.

Only passengers in direct transit (without clearing immigration) and Vietnamese citizens using a national passport are exempt.

What if I arrive at another airport? The PAI is not required for arrivals at Noi Bai (HAN), Cam Ranh (CXR) or Da Nang (DAD) airports, though travelers may choose to submit a declaration voluntarily.

How to Obtain Your QR Code

Complete the process via the government portal: prearrival.immigration.gov.vn. The system enforces a strict 72-hour time window—you can only submit your application within the 72 hours leading up to your scheduled landing.

Prepare your supporting documents in advance: a digital copy of your passport (the biometric page with your photo) and your flight ticket (including flight number and travel dates). You’ll also need to provide the address of your first accommodation in Vietnam.

Once submitted, a QR code is generated and tied to your profile. Be sure to save a copy—this travel document is what Vietnamese authorities will review.

Does This Affect My Visa Requirements?

The Digital Arrival Card does not replace a visa. Whether you’re a national from a 45-day visa-exempt country (e.g., France, Germany, or Australia) or require an e-Visa, the pre-arrival card remains an additional prerequisite. Confirm your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your planned departure date (not merely your arrival date).

Are there any exceptions for travel to Phu Quoc Island? Foreign nationals may enter visa-free for stays up to 30 days via air or sea. The pre-arrival card has been mandatory since June 1, 2026. In the form’s visa section, select “Phu Quoc Visa Exemption.”