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Arrival procedures for Tan Son Nhat International Airport (SGN) with a Vietnam eVisa, including immigration clearance and ground transportation to Ho Chi Minh City center.
Arrival at Tan Son Nhat International Airport (SGN)
Tan Son Nhat International Airport (SGN) serves as the primary aviation gateway to Ho Chi Minh City. It is one of the 83 designated entry ports that accept the Vietnam eVisa. This guide outlines the arrival and immigration procedures for international travelers entering Vietnam via SGN as of 2026.
Passengers must secure a valid Vietnam eVisa prior to boarding their flight. It is mandatory to print a hard copy of the eVisa to present to immigration officials upon arrival.
Immigration Procedures for eVisa Holders
Upon disembarking and entering the international terminal, follow directional signage to Immigration (Passport Control). Passengers holding a valid Vietnam eVisa are not required to visit the 'Visa on Arrival' counters.
- Proceed to Passport Control: Use the lanes designated for 'Foreign Passports' or 'All Passports'.
- Document Presentation: Submit your original passport and the printed eVisa document to the immigration officer. Ensure the passport is valid for at least six months from the date of entry and has sufficient blank pages.
- No Stamping Fee: The eVisa fee ($25 for a single-entry visa, $50 for a multiple-entry visa) is paid online during the application process. There are no additional processing or stamping fees collected at the airport.
- Entry Verification: The officer will review the documents and stamp the passport. Passengers are advised to verify that the entry date and permitted duration of stay (up to 90 days) on the stamp are correct before leaving the counter.
Standard immigration processing times range from 15 to 45 minutes, subject to passenger volume.
Baggage Claim and Customs
Following immigration clearance, proceed to the baggage claim area located on the lower level. Flight information screens indicate the designated carousel for each arriving flight. After retrieving baggage, proceed through Customs. Travelers carrying goods within the permitted duty-free allowance may use the 'Nothing to Declare' (Green) channel.
Ground Transportation to the City Center
The distance from Tan Son Nhat Airport to District 1 (the city center) is approximately 8 kilometers. Typical transit time is 30 to 45 minutes, depending on traffic conditions. Passengers have access to the following regulated transportation services:
- Ride-Hailing Applications (Grab): Passengers may book rides via the Grab application. The designated pick-up point is located across the traffic lanes outside the arrivals hall (Lanes D or E). Standard fares to District 1 range from 120,000 to 180,000 VND.
- Metered Taxis: Official taxi ranks for operators such as Vinasun and Mai Linh are available outside the terminal. Ensure the driver engages the meter. Estimated fares to District 1 range from 150,000 to 200,000 VND, exclusive of an approximate 10,000 VND airport toll.
- Public Bus Services: Bus Route 152 operates from 05:00 to 22:00, terminating near Ben Thanh Market. The fare is 5,000 VND per passenger, with an additional 5,000 VND required for oversized luggage. Airport Bus 109 offers dedicated luggage space, with a fare of approximately 20,000 VND to the city center.
Passengers are advised to use designated taxi ranks or official ride-hailing pickup points. Avoid unauthorized individuals offering transportation services inside the terminal to ensure regulated fares and safety.
Currency Exchange and Telecommunications
Currency exchange counters and authorized telecommunications kiosks (providing local SIM cards) are located in the arrivals hall, immediately following customs clearance.