🔄 Cập nhật lần cuối: 11/07/2026
Important update: If you're flying into Cam Ranh International Airport (CXR) — the main gateway to Nha Trang — read this closely. Since June 2026, Cam Ranh has been added to Vietnam's pre-arrival declaration system. Skipping this step can cost you time at the immigration counter.
What's new? The pre-arrival QR now applies at Cam Ranh
Vietnam's Immigration Department (under the Ministry of Public Security) is rolling out the Pre-Arrival Information system (PAI) — often called the digital arrival card. Instead of filling in a paper form at the airport, travelers declare online in advance, receive a QR code, and present it during immigration.
The system began as a pilot at Tan Son Nhat (Ho Chi Minh City) on 15 April 2026, then expanded step by step. By mid-2026, covered airports include Tan Son Nhat, Phu Quoc, Noi Bai (Hanoi), Da Nang and Cam Ranh (Nha Trang). For anyone flying straight into Nha Trang, this is a change to note now.
What PAI is — and what it isn't
- It is: a free electronic arrival declaration that gives immigration your details in advance, shortening time at the counter.
- It isn't: a visa, and it doesn't replace your E-Visa. These are two completely separate steps. Most foreign travelers need both: a valid entry document (E-Visa or visa exemption) and the pre-arrival QR code.
This is the most common misunderstanding. Having the QR doesn't mean you have a visa; and having an E-Visa doesn't exempt you from the QR step when flying into covered airports.
Who must complete it?
- Foreign travelers arriving through covered airports (including Cam Ranh).
- Each person needs their own QR, including children — parents/guardians can file for a child using the child's passport details.
- Groups/families can file several people in one session, but each passport still gets its own QR.
Step-by-step: how to file
- Use the official portal: go to
prearrival.immigration.gov.vn(the Immigration Department's portal). Avoid unofficial sites. - File within the window: the system accepts declarations within 72 hours (3 days) before arrival — not earlier.
- Select the right entry point: choose Cam Ranh (CXR) if you're flying into Nha Trang.
- Enter details exactly as in your passport: full name, passport number, date of birth, nationality; plus flight number, arrival date and your first-night accommodation address.
- Get your QR code: after submitting, the system generates a QR. Save a screenshot and keep a printed backup.
- Show it at immigration: present the QR for the officer to scan, together with your passport and entry document (E-Visa/exemption).
The whole form is free and can be done on a phone, tablet or computer with internet.
Common mistakes that slow you down
- Filing too early: the portal only opens within 72 hours of arrival; earlier attempts won't go through.
- Mismatched details: a single typo in your name or passport number can cause delays. Enter everything exactly as printed.
- Confusing the QR with a visa: the QR is not a visa. You still need an E-Visa or a visa exemption.
- Changing your flight without re-filing: if your arrival date changes, the old QR may no longer match — re-file once the new schedule falls within the 72-hour window.
- No internet on arrival: you need internet to file/show it. Set up an eSIM so you're online the moment you land.
Is there also a health declaration?
Alongside PAI, 2026 also saw a health declaration requirement (referenced under Decree No. 165/2026/NĐ-CP) for travelers crossing Vietnam's borders. This is separate from the pre-arrival QR. Because rules can change and expand, check the latest requirements on the official portal before you fly.
The bigger picture: 2026 visa changes to know
The QR declaration is one part of a wider set of 2026 updates:
- 90-day E-Visa for all nationalities: the E-Visa system is open to citizens of all countries/territories, valid up to 90 days, in single- and multiple-entry versions.
- More entry points accept E-Visas: 2026 added dozens of gates (including the new Long Thanh Airport), raising the total to dozens of entry/exit points.
- 45-day visa exemption: several nationalities (including Russia, South Korea and many European countries) enjoy up to 45 days visa-free under resolutions running to 2028.
- Revised immigration law from 1 July 2026: updates on residence management, control of foreign nationals and data integration.
- New UĐ1/UĐ2 visas from 1 July 2026: for high-quality digital-tech talent/special experts and their family members.
The common thread: core conditions remain stable — a passport valid for at least 6 months, a valid entry document, and the ability to show your purpose of entry when asked.
A smooth Cam Ranh arrival: the trio to have
- A valid entry document — E-Visa (if needed) or a visa exemption.
- Your pre-arrival QR — filed within 72 hours of arrival, saved on your phone.
- Connectivity & support — an eSIM so you're online, and Fast Track if you'd like to move through the airport steps quickly. Note: the QR speeds things up but doesn't remove queues; pairing it with Fast Track is smoother.
Sources
- Official declaration portal:
prearrival.immigration.gov.vn(Immigration Department — Ministry of Public Security). - Official E-Visa portal:
evisa.gov.vn. - 2026 entry-rule coverage: VietnamNet, Vietcetera and international travel outlets reporting Cam Ranh's addition to the PAI system in June 2026.
Note: This article is for information, compiled at the time of update. Rules can change — check the official portal before flying. ViEntry is a platform connecting users with independent operators; all prices are for reference. ViEntry is not an immigration authority and does not provide legal advice.
Need a tidy Nha Trang arrival?
ViEntry supports 90-day E-Visa applications, provides an eSIM so you're online on landing, and offers Fast Track at Cam Ranh. Many travelers choose the E-Visa + eSIM combo to arrive with both paperwork and the connectivity needed to file/show the QR. Not sure what you need? Use the free Advisor for a suggestion based on your trip.
👉 Contact or book ahead: Telegram @vientry_support · WhatsApp +84 963 091 001 · Hotline 0963 091 001.
