Vietnam Arrival Card 2026: Complete Guide to Form NA1 & the New Digital Arrival Card

On June 16th, 2026, Hanoi's Noi Bai Airport (HAN) officially became the next Airport in Vietnam to implement the Digital Arrival Card. This is set to be the next big upgrade for your experience in Hanoi, by creating and submitting your information for the immigration procedure, thus significantly reducing Airport check-out time. Hence, this will become a crucial step for your next trip to Hanoi.

What Is the Vietnam Arrival Card?

Vietnam currently operates two separate but related arrival declaration systems:

Digital Pre-Arrival Card (New in 2026)

A mandatory online arrival declaration for international passengers entering through selected airports. Travelers receive a QR code after submission, helping speed up immigration processing upon arrival.

Form NA1 (Entry/Exit Declaration Form)

The traditional immigration declaration form, still required for Visa on Arrival (VOA) applicants and commonly used at land and sea border crossings.

Form NA1 replaced the older M3 form and serves as a combined entry-exit declaration document that immigration officers use when processing arrivals.

It is important to note that the Digital Arrival Card does not replace a visa, e-Visa, or Form NA1 for travelers using Visa on Arrival. Instead, it serves as an additional digital declaration designed to reduce congestion at airports.

Note: Vietnam's immigration policies may change periodically. Travelers should always verify the latest requirements through the official Vietnam Immigration Department website before departure.

2026 Update: Vietnam Digital Arrival Card

Starting April 15, 2026, the Vietnam Immigration Department officially introduced a mandatory and free Digital Arrival Card for international travelers arriving through Tan Son Nhat International Airport (SGN) in Ho Chi Minh City.

The system collects passport details, flight information, travel purpose, and accommodation details before arrival. Once completed, travelers receive a QR code that can be presented during immigration clearance.

Who Needs to Complete Form NA1?

For most international tourists visiting Vietnam, whether you need Form NA1 depends on your method of entry.

Who Is Exempt from the Digital Arrival Card?

The following travelers are generally exempt:

• Vietnamese citizens traveling with a Vietnamese passport

• Same-day transit passengers who do not pass through immigration

• Minors under 18 whose information is submitted by a parent or legal guardian

Important: The Digital Arrival Card is not a visa. Travelers who require a visa must still obtain the appropriate visa, e-Visa, or Visa on Arrival approval separately.

When Should You Complete the Vietnam Arrival Card?

Digital Arrival Card (SGN and HAN Arrivals)

The ideal submission time is between 24 and 72 hours before departure.

• Earliest submission: 72 hours before arrival

• Latest recommended submission: Before boarding your flight

• Airport kiosks may be available, but processing can take an additional 20–40 minutes

Form NA1 (VOA, Land, and Sea Arrivals)

Form NA1 should generally be completed between 1 and 7 days before arrival.

Recommended timing:

• Best practice: 2–3 days before departure

• Earlier than 7 days may require resubmission if information changes

Preparing the necessary arrival documents in advance can help reduce waiting times and ensure a smoother immigration experience when entering Vietnam.

Additional Entry Requirements

Passport Validity

Your passport should remain valid for at least six months beyond your planned departure date from Vietnam.

Designated Entry Ports

Travelers using an e-Visa must enter through one of Vietnam's designated international checkpoints selected during the visa application process.

Children Under 14

Travelers under 14 years old should carry an original or certified copy of their birth certificate. If traveling with relatives or guardians, supporting documentation proving the relationship or authorization may be required.