If you are preparing to fly to Vietnam, you may be wondering whether a health declaration is required before departure. The good news is that routine health declarations are not currently mandatory for every international traveller. However, you may still need to complete a separate pre-arrival information form to make immigration procedures smoother. Alongside preparing your travel documents, check your visa requirements and explore Tubudd's Vietnam e-Visa service if you need assistance with your visa application.

Is a Health Declaration Required Before Flying to Vietnam in 2026?

As of 2026, Vietnam does not require every traveller to complete a health declaration before entering the country.

Under Decree No. 165/2026/ND-CP, effective from July 1, 2026, health declarations are not applied routinely to everyone entering, leaving, or transiting through Vietnam.

Instead, the Ministry of Health may introduce health declaration requirements depending on the infectious disease situation and the risk of disease transmission at a particular time.

If a declaration is officially required, travellers must complete it within seven days before crossing a Vietnamese border checkpoint. The Ministry of Health may also issue additional instructions during disease outbreaks.

Important: Do not assume that you need to submit a health declaration simply because you are travelling internationally. Check the latest official announcements before your flight.

Health Declaration vs. Vietnam Pre-Arrival Information (PAI)

One common source of confusion is the difference between a health declaration and Vietnam's Pre-arrival Information (PAI) system.

They serve different purposes and should not be treated as the same document.

The PAI system was introduced by Vietnam's Immigration Department in April 2026 and subsequently expanded to major international airports, including Tan Son Nhat, Noi Bai, Da Nang, Cam Ranh, and Phu Quoc.

Foreign travellers are encouraged to submit their information through the official PAI portal within three days before arrival. After completing the form, the system generates a QR code that travellers should save on their phones or print for use during immigration procedures.

PAI is not a visa application and does not replace a Vietnam e-Visa.

How to Complete Vietnam's Pre-Arrival Information Form

Although PAI is currently voluntary, completing it in advance can help make your arrival process smoother.

Follow these steps:

• Visit the official portal: Go to https://prearrival.immigration.gov.vn/.
• Select your language: Choose the language you are comfortable using.
• Create a declaration: Select the option to create and submit your pre-arrival information.
• Enter your details: Provide your personal information, passport details, visa information, and travel details.
• Save your QR code: Once the declaration is successful, download or save the generated QR code for your arrival.

Make sure your passport information, flight number, and travel details are accurate. Incorrect information may affect the declaration process.

Be careful of unofficial websites claiming to provide the PAI service. Vietnam's Immigration Department has warned travellers about fraudulent websites impersonating the official platform.

What Documents Should You Prepare Before Flying to Vietnam?

Even when a health declaration is not required, preparing your travel documents in advance can help avoid unnecessary delays.

Consider having the following ready:

• Valid passport: Check that your passport meets the validity requirements for your travel circumstances.
• Vietnam visa or entry exemption document: Depending on your nationality and length of stay, you may need an approved e-Visa or qualify for visa-free entry.
• Flight information: Keep your flight number, arrival date, and accommodation address available for the PAI form.
• PAI QR code: If you complete the pre-arrival declaration, save the confirmation code on your phone.
• Supporting travel documents: Keep your accommodation booking and onward travel details accessible if requested.

If you are unsure whether you need a visa, check your eligibility before booking your flight. You can also visit Tubudd's e-Visa service for support with your Vietnam visa application.

Where Can You Check the Latest Health Declaration Requirements?

Entry and health regulations can change depending on public health conditions. Before travelling, use official sources rather than relying on outdated travel blogs or third-party websites.

Useful resources include:

• Vietnam Ministry of Health: Official updates on public health policies and disease prevention.
• Vietnam Government News: Government announcements about health declaration requirements.
• Vietnam Immigration Department: Official portal for submitting pre-arrival information.

Avoid submitting personal or payment information through websites that claim to be official without verifying their authenticity.

Conclusion

A health declaration is not routinely required for every traveller flying to Vietnam in 2026, but requirements may change if public health risks emerge. Remember that health declarations, PAI, and e-Visas serve different purposes, so completing one does not replace the others. Before departure, check the latest official guidance, prepare your travel documents, and complete your PAI information if you wish to make immigration procedures smoother. If you still need a visa, visit Tubudd to explore its Vietnam e-Visa service and get support with your application.