2026-2027 Hanoi Noi Bai Airport (HAN) Digital Arrival Card: Complete Guide

What is the PAI Digital Arrival Card?

The PAI (Pre-arrival Information) is an online immigration pre-declaration system launched by the Vietnam Immigration Department. Travelers must enter their personal details, visa information, and flight itinerary before arrival. Once completed, the system generates a unique QR Code, which you present at immigration to speed up your entry process.

⚠️ Most Important Note: PAI is NOT a visa! The PAI is an independent immigration declaration tool and does not replace a visa. You must still hold a valid visa or qualify for visa exemption. The correct order is: Get your E-visa first → Receive your visa number → Then fill out the PAI.

When does it start at Hanoi Noi Bai Airport (HAN)?

The PAI system is being rolled out in phases:

By June 2026, the PAI system covers Vietnam’s five major international airports. 💡 Pro Tip: If you are arriving at Hanoi Noi Bai Airport, we strongly recommend completing your declaration before departure. While still in the rollout phase, filling it out at the airport can lead to significant delays due to unstable Wi-Fi or long queues.

Who needs to fill it out?

✅ Required for:

• Foreign passport holders (including Taiwan, Hong Kong, Macau passports)

• Travelers entering with an E-visa or Visa on Arrival

• Travelers entering Phu Quoc under the 30-day visa-free policy

• Overseas Vietnamese (Viet Kieu) entering with a visa

❌ Not required for:

• Vietnamese passport holders

• Transit passengers who do not enter the country (staying within the airport transit area)

🧒 Do children need to fill it out? Yes. Every individual needs their own submission, including children. Parents can complete the form on their behalf.

Why submit before arrival?

According to the Vietnam Immigration Department, during the trial period (April 15–30, 2026), out of 161,596 travelers, 119,854 successfully submitted their information pre-arrival.

Advantages of Pre-submission:

✅ Shorter queues: Save time during peak hours when lines can exceed 40 minutes.

✅ Stress-free entry: Avoid the chaos of trying to connect to airport Wi-Fi to fill out forms.

✅ Faster processing: Immigration officers have your data ready before you reach the counter.

Risks of waiting until arrival:

❌ Unstable airport Wi-Fi signals.

❌ Potential 30-60 minute delays during peak season.

❌ Disruption to your onward travel plans (transfers, hotel pickups).

📌 Vietnam Immigration warns: Failure to pre-register may significantly extend your customs clearance time.

5-Minute Online Declaration: Step-by-Step

Step 1: Access the official website Go only to the official immigration website: 🔗 https://prearrival.immigration.gov.vn/

⚠️ Important:

• The PAI system is completely free. Any third-party site asking for payment is a scam.

• Official URLs end in .gov.vn.

• The system supports Vietnamese, English, Chinese, French, and more.

Step 2: Prepare your documents

• Passport: Valid for at least 6 months with at least 2 blank pages.

• E-visa number: Your permit number (starts with “EV”).

• Flight details: Flight number (e.g., VJ841, BR391) and arrival date.

• Accommodation: Name or address of your first hotel in Vietnam.

• Email: For receiving the OTP verification code.

Step 3: Submit the form

1. Language: Click the language menu (top right) to select “English”.

2. Start: Click “Create & Submit Pre-arrival Information”.

3. Captcha: Enter the verification code as shown.

4. Passenger Details: Fill in full name (as per passport), passport number, birth date, nationality, and passport type.

5. Visa Details: Select “E-VISA” and enter your EV number. Select your purpose of entry.

6. Trip Details: Enter your flight number, arrival date, airport (Noi Bai International Airport – HAN), and first accommodation address.

7. Submit: Verify your data, enter the OTP sent to your email, and receive your QR Code.

📌 Time Limit: PAI can only be submitted within 72 hours (3 days) before your arrival.

Step 4: Triple Backup Once you have the QR Code:

1. Screenshot: Save it to your phone’s gallery.

2. Email: Forward the confirmation email to yourself.

3. Print: Carry a paper copy in your passport holder—this is the most reliable method.

Step 5: Arrival Procedure at Noi Bai Airport

1. Arrival: Follow signs for “Immigration / Arrival”.

2. Inspection: Head to the “ALL PASSPORTS” channel. Present your passport, printed E-visa, and the PAI QR code.

3. Baggage: After clearance, head to the carousel to collect your luggage.

Note for E-visa holders: If required, visit the “VISA ON ARRIVAL” window to exchange your E-visa for the official paper visa.

2026-2027 Trends and Outlook

• Expansion: The PAI system is rolling out across all international airports and land borders.

• Health Declaration: A new health declaration system is expected to launch on July 1, 2026. Keep an eye out for updates.

• Land Borders: While currently for airports, land and sea ports may soon be included.

FAQ

• Is it free? Yes, completely free.

• Can I fix a mistake? Names, passport numbers, and dates cannot be changed. If incorrect, simply create a new one. The latest submission is the valid one.

• Is it mandatory for transit? Only if you leave the transit area to enter Vietnam.

Why Choose Us?

Vietnam’s entry policies change rapidly. Our team ensures your journey is seamless.

We provide:

📋 Comprehensive Visa Services: From application to approval.

⚡ VIP Fast-Track Service: Dedicated meet-and-greet, no waiting in line.

🚀 Visa Acceleration: Stuck? We help speed up the process.

🌐 Multilingual Support: Reach us via LINE/WeChat for real-time help.

Our Advantages:

• Years of experience in Vietnam visa regulations.

• Direct connection with local partners for real-time information.

• Serving travelers from Taiwan, Hong Kong, Macau, and beyond.

📞 Contact us today to ensure a smooth trip!

🌐 Apply here: https://www.vietnam-visa.in/apply-vietnam-visa/

📧 Email: info@vietnam-visa.hk

💬 LINE/WeChat: vietnam-visa

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