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Ho Chi Minh Airport Arrival, Transit & Departure Guide

Ho Chi Minh City Airport has official name is Tan Son Nhat International Airport (airport code: SGN). This is one of the busiest and biggest airports in Vietnam. The airport is about 7 km north of District 1. If you want to travel to Ho Chi Minh City and nearby cities, this airport is mostly the primary gateway.

I. Introduction

Tan Son Nhat International Airport has 2 main terminals: Domestic Terminal (T1) and International Terminal (T2). Here’s the overall map of the international terminal (T2) at the airport:
 

II. Guideline for Arriving at Tan Son Nhat Airport

Arriving at Tan Son Nhat International Airport (SGN) could be confusing, especially for first-time travelers to Vietnam. Follow this step-by-step guide to navigate the arrivals process effortlessly.
 

Step 1: Disembarking from the Plane

Once the flight ends, follow the signage directing passengers to the immigration and baggage claim areas. If you are on an international flight, you need to move to the immigration checkpoint.
 

Step 2: Immigration & Visa Procedures

To be eligible to travel in Vietnam, you need to go through immigration and customs procedures. You must bring these required documents:
  • Passport Control: Have your passport, visa, and any required entry documents ready.
  • Visa on Arrival (VOA): If you’re eligible, proceed to the Visa on Arrival counter before immigration to get your visa stamped.
  • E-Visa & Visa-Free Entry: If you have an e-visa or qualify for visa-free entry, head straight to the immigration queue.
Processing Time: Expect immigration clearance to take around 15–45 minutes, depending on crowd levels.
 

Step 3: Baggage Claim

After clearing immigration, you’ll move to the baggage claim area. Electronic screens will display the corresponding baggage carousel number for your flight. If your luggage is delayed or lost, find the airline’s baggage service counter for assistance.
 

Step 4: Customs Check

There are 2 situations when customs checks:
  • Green Lane: If you have nothing to declare, proceed through without stopping.
  • Red Lane: If carrying dutiable goods, cash over $5,000, or restricted items, you must declare them to customs officials.

Step 5: Arrival Hall & Meeting Area

After customs, you’ll enter the arrival hall, where you can meet family, friends, or pre-arranged transportation services. Airport transfer or tour guide will likely be waiting for you here with a sign displaying your name.
 

Step 6: Transportation Options to the City Center

Tan Son Nhat Airport offers multiple transport options to get to your hotel or final destination:
  • Taxis: Reliable brands include Mai Linh and Vinasun. Avoid unlicensed taxis.
  • Ride-Hailing Apps: Grab, Gojek, and Be are available via mobile apps.
  • Airport Shuttle Buses: Bus 152 and 109 are budget-friendly options to reach District 1.
  • Private Car Transfers: Pre-booked car services offer convenience and fixed pricing.
 

III. Guideline for Departing from Tan Son Nhat International Airport

Departing from Tan Son Nhat International Airport (SGN) is designed to be smooth and stress-free. Follow this updated guide for a hassle-free departure experience.

 

Step 1: Check-In

You may have some problems about traffic in Ho Chi Minh City, so i’s recommended to arrive at the airport at least 3 hours before your international flight to allow enough time for all procedures.
  • Check-In Counter: Head to your airline’s designated check-in counter. Here, you’ll drop off your checked luggage and receive your boarding pass.
  • Self-Check-In: Many airlines now offer self-check-in kiosks, allowing you to skip the lines and speed up the process.

Step 2: Security Check

Security checks are a compulsory step for departing:
  • Screening Process: After check-in, proceed to the security screening area. Be ready to show your boarding pass and ID for verification.
  • Security Efficiency: Ho Chi Minh Airport uses advanced technology to ensure quick and efficient security checks while prioritizing safety.

Step 3: Passport Control (For International Flights)

If you go on an international flight, you have to pass through passport control:
  • Documents Needed: Ensure you have your passport, any necessary visas, and boarding pass ready.
  • E-Gates: For travelers with biometric passports, automated e-gates are available for a faster and seamless passport check.

Step 4: Departure Lounge

After passing through security and passport control, you’ll enter the departure lounge, where you can relax before your flight. Here, there is a variety of restaurants, cafes, and duty-free shops offering international and local goods. You can buy some souvenirs here.
 

Step 5: Boarding

  • Departure Screens: Keep an eye on the departure screens for your flight’s boarding gate information and any updates.
  • Boarding Process: Once your gate is announced, follow the signs to your boarding gate. Airline staff will assist with boarding, ensuring an efficient process.
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IV. Transportation from the Airport to the City Center

Taxi services (Mai Linh, Vinasun, and avoiding scams)

Taxis are one of the easiest ways to get to the city center. The ride takes about 30–45 minutes, depending on traffic. Recommended Taxi Companies:
  • Mai Linh Taxi (Green cars) – reliable, metered taxis with fair pricing.
  • Vinasun Taxi (White cars with red/green stripes) – Well-known and trustworthy, with a hotline for customer support.
Estimated fare: 150,000 – 250,000 VND (~$6–$10 USD) to the city center.

Airport shuttle buses and public transportation

Bus 109 (Yellow Bus) – Runs from the airport to Ben Thanh Market in 45 minutes.
  • Operating hours: 5:30 AM – 1:00 AM
  • Fare: 15,000 VND (~$0.60 USD)
Bus 152 (Green Bus) – Connects the airport to District 1, stopping near Ben Thanh Market.
  • Operating hours: 5:30 AM – 6:30 PM
  • Fare: 6,000 VND (~$0.25 USD)
Bus 49 (Premium Shuttle) – Direct service to major hotels in District 1.
  • Fare: 40,000 VND (~$1.60 USD)

Private Car transfers

If you prefer convenience and privacy, consider booking a private airport transfer or renting a car.
  • Pre-booking a private car with a driver ensures fixed pricing and no hassle.
  • Companies like Klook, Bookaway, and Viator offer reliable transfer services.
  • Fare: 300,000 – 500,000 VND (~$12–$20 USD)
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V. Frequently Asked Questions

  • If your airline transfers baggage automatically, you do not need to clear immigration. Simply follow the “International Transfer” signs to the departure area.
  • If you need to collect and re-check baggage, you must go through immigration and customs, then check in again for your next flight.

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The international departure area has duty-free shops, restaurants, and seating areas to relax while you wait. If you have a long layover (over 6 hours), consider booking a lounge or a nearby hotel for rest.

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There are 2 situations:
  • If you do not leave the international transit area, no visa is required.
  • If you plan to exit the airport for a short trip into Ho Chi Minh City, you’ll need a Vietnamese visa. Check if you’re eligible for a visa-free stay or an e-visa before your trip.

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