Hue Entry Requirements

Visa, immigration, and customs information

Hue, the former imperial capital of Vietnam, welcomes international visitors through various entry points. While Hue itself is accessed primarily via Phu Bai International Airport or overland from other Vietnamese cities, all entry requirements are governed by Vietnam's national immigration policies. Travelers must ensure they have the appropriate visa or authorization before arrival, as Vietnam maintains specific entry requirements based on nationality. The immigration process for entering Vietnam to visit Hue is straightforward for most travelers. Many nationalities enjoy visa-free access for short stays, while others can obtain an e-visa online before travel. Upon arrival at any Vietnamese port of entry, visitors will go through immigration control where passports are checked and entry stamps are issued. It's essential to have a passport valid for at least six months beyond your intended stay. Before traveling to Hue, ensure all documentation is in order, including proof of onward travel and sufficient funds for your stay. Vietnam has modernized its visa system in recent years, making it easier for tourists to obtain authorization. However, requirements can change, so always verify current regulations with official Vietnamese government sources or your nearest Vietnamese embassy or consulate well in advance of your trip.

Visa Requirements

Entry permissions vary by nationality. Find your category below.

Vietnam's visa policy varies significantly by nationality. As of 2024, Vietnam offers visa exemptions to numerous countries, an e-visa system for 80+ nationalities, and traditional visa-on-arrival and embassy visa options.

Visa-Free Entry

Ranges from 14 to 45 days depending on nationality

Citizens of select countries can enter Vietnam without a visa for tourism purposes

Includes

ASEAN countries (Brunei, Cambodia, Indonesia, Laos, Malaysia, Myanmar, Philippines, Singapore, Thailand) - 30 days Germany, France, Italy, Spain, United Kingdom - 45 days Denmark, Sweden, Norway, Finland, Russia - 45 days South Korea, Japan - 45 days Belarus - 45 days Chile - 90 days

Passport must be valid for at least 6 months from entry date. Visa-free entry is for tourism only. Some nationalities require proof of onward travel. Check current bilateral agreements as durations have been extended for many countries in 2023-2024.

Electronic Travel Authorization (e-Visa)

Up to 90 days, single or multiple entry

Citizens of over 80 countries can apply for an e-visa online before travel

Includes

United States Canada Australia New Zealand India China Most European Union countries United Kingdom (also eligible for visa-free) Brazil, Argentina, Mexico South Africa And 70+ other countries

How to Apply: Apply online at Vietnam's official immigration website (evisa.xuatnhapcanh.gov.vn) at least 3 business days before travel. Processing typically takes 3 working days. Upload passport photo and passport data page. Print e-visa approval letter to present at immigration.
Cost: USD $25 (as of 2024)

E-visa is valid for entry through all Vietnamese airports, land borders, and seaports including Phu Bai International Airport. Must enter and exit through designated checkpoints. Can be extended once while in Vietnam.

Visa Required

Typically 30 days, but can vary based on visa type

Nationalities not eligible for visa-free entry or e-visa must obtain a visa through a Vietnamese embassy or consulate

How to Apply: Apply at the nearest Vietnamese embassy or consulate in your country. Submit application form, passport photos, passport (valid 6+ months), and supporting documents. Processing time varies from 5-10 business days. Alternatively, some travelers use visa-on-arrival services through approved agencies, requiring a pre-approval letter.

Business visas, work permits, and long-term visas require additional documentation. Visa-on-arrival is available at major airports but requires pre-approval letter from a Vietnamese sponsor or agency.

Arrival Process

Most international travelers arrive at Phu Bai International Airport (HUI) in Hue or at major gateways like Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh City before traveling to Hue. The entry process is standardized across all Vietnamese ports of entry.

Health Screening (if applicable)

Depending on current health regulations, you may undergo temperature checks or health declarations. This step may be minimal or absent during normal times.

Immigration Queue

Join the appropriate queue - foreign passport holders use designated counters. Have your passport, visa/e-visa, and arrival card ready.

Document Check

Immigration officer reviews your passport, visa, and entry documents. Your photo may be taken and fingerprints scanned (biometric data collection is standard).

Entry Interview

Officer may ask brief questions about your visit. Answer clearly and honestly. The process is usually quick and straightforward.

Entry Stamp

Your passport receives an entry stamp indicating your permitted length of stay. Verify the dates are correct before leaving the counter.

Baggage Claim

Collect your luggage from the designated carousel.

Customs Declaration

Pass through customs. Use the red channel if you have items to declare, green channel if you don't. Random inspections may occur.

Documents to Have Ready

Valid Passport

Must be valid for at least 6 months beyond your intended stay with at least 2 blank pages for stamps

Visa or e-Visa Approval

Printed copy of e-visa approval letter or valid visa in passport. Keep digital backup accessible.

Arrival/Departure Card

Completed immigration card (usually distributed on flights or available at airport). Keep the departure portion with your passport.

Proof of Onward Travel

Return ticket or onward journey confirmation may be requested, especially for visa-exempt entries

Accommodation Details

Hotel booking confirmation or address where you'll be staying in Vietnam

Customs Declaration Form

Required if carrying items exceeding duty-free allowances or restricted items

Tips for Smooth Entry

Print all documents including e-visa, hotel bookings, and return tickets. Don't rely solely on digital copies as internet may be unavailable.

Keep your departure card safe with your passport - you'll need it when leaving Vietnam. Some travelers paperclip it to their passport.

Have small USD bills ready for any unexpected fees or if purchasing visa-on-arrival. ATMs are available after customs.

Take a photo of your passport and visa before traveling and email it to yourself as backup.

Be polite and patient with immigration officers. Smile and answer questions clearly and concisely.

Double-check your entry stamp dates before leaving the immigration counter. Overstaying can result in fines.

If arriving at Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh City before traveling to Hue, allow sufficient time for immigration and domestic connections (minimum 3 hours recommended).

Customs & Duty-Free

Vietnam's customs regulations allow reasonable personal items duty-free but restrict certain goods. All travelers must pass through customs after collecting baggage, and accurate declaration of restricted items is required to avoid penalties.

Alcohol

1.5 liters of alcohol over 22% OR 2 liters of alcohol under 22% OR 3 liters of beer

Must be 18 years or older. Alcohol must be for personal use only.

Tobacco

200 cigarettes OR 100 cigars OR 500 grams of tobacco

Must be 18 years or older. Exceeding limits requires duty payment.

Currency

Up to USD $5,000 (or equivalent) without declaration; amounts exceeding USD $5,000 must be declared

No limit on amount you can bring, but amounts over $5,000 must be declared on arrival. Undeclared amounts may be confiscated. Keep declaration form to show when departing with remaining funds.

Gifts/Goods

Personal effects and gifts with total value not exceeding VND 10 million (approximately USD $400)

Items clearly for commercial purposes will be taxed. Luxury items may be questioned.

Prohibited Items

Illegal drugs and narcotics - Vietnam has extremely strict drug laws with severe penalties including death penalty
Weapons, explosives, and military equipment - including replicas and ammunition
Pornographic materials - magazines, videos, or digital content deemed obscene
Anti-government materials - publications or materials critical of Vietnamese government
Certain cultural artifacts - items of historical or cultural significance without proper permits
Endangered species products - ivory, rhino horn, tiger parts, etc. under CITES regulations
Firecrackers and fireworks - except with special permits
Children's toys and items deemed dangerous - certain items not meeting safety standards

Restricted Items

Medications - Bring prescription medications in original packaging with doctor's letter. Quantities should be reasonable for personal use during stay. Some medications legal elsewhere may be controlled in Vietnam.
Drones and camera equipment - Professional camera equipment and drones may require permits. Recreational drones face restrictions. Declare all professional equipment.
Religious materials - Large quantities of religious publications may require permission. Personal religious items are generally acceptable.
Fresh food and plants - Agricultural products, seeds, and fresh foods require phytosanitary certificates. Most fresh items are prohibited.
Telecommunications equipment - Satellite phones and certain communication devices require permits.
Large amounts of currency - Amounts over USD $5,000 must be declared (not prohibited, but restricted)
Antiques and cultural items - Exporting antiques requires certification from Ministry of Culture. Assume any item over 30 years old requires documentation.

Health Requirements

Vietnam has minimal mandatory health requirements for most travelers, but recommended vaccinations and health precautions are important for a safe visit to Hue.

Required Vaccinations

Yellow Fever - Required ONLY if arriving from a country with risk of yellow fever transmission. Certificate must be presented at immigration. Not required for most travelers from North America, Europe, or Australia.

Recommended Vaccinations

Routine vaccinations - Ensure up-to-date with MMR, DPT, chickenpox, polio, and yearly flu shot
Hepatitis A - Recommended for all travelers due to potential food/water contamination
Hepatitis B - Recommended for most travelers, especially if medical treatment might be needed
Typhoid - Recommended for travelers eating outside major hotels and restaurants
Japanese Encephalitis - Recommended for long-term travelers or those visiting rural areas, especially during rainy season
Rabies - Consider for adventure travelers, those working with animals, or visiting remote areas
Malaria prophylaxis - Generally not needed for Hue city, but consult doctor if visiting rural/forested areas

Health Insurance

Travel health insurance is strongly recommended but not mandatory for entry. Vietnam's healthcare system requires upfront payment, and medical evacuation can be extremely expensive. Ensure your policy covers Vietnam and includes medical evacuation. Some travel insurance policies exclude motorbiking - important if you plan to rent a motorbike in Hue.

Current Health Requirements: COVID-19 requirements have been lifted as of 2023, with no vaccination certificates, testing, or quarantine required. However, health regulations can change rapidly. Check the Vietnam Ministry of Health website and your country's travel advisory 1-2 weeks before departure for current requirements. Consider bringing face masks as they may be required in healthcare facilities.

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Important Contacts

Essential resources for your trip.

Embassy/Consulate

Contact your country's embassy or consulate in Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh City for citizen services

Register with your embassy's travel program before departure. US citizens use STEP, UK citizens use travel registration service, etc. Keep emergency contact numbers accessible.

Immigration Authority

Vietnam Immigration Department - evisa.xuatnhapcanh.gov.vn for e-visa applications and official information

For visa extensions, visit Thua Thien Hue Immigration Office at 7 Ly Thuong Kiet, Hue City, or contact licensed travel agencies for assistance

Emergency Services

Police: 113 | Ambulance: 115 | Fire: 114

English may be limited. Have hotel staff or Vietnamese speaker assist if possible. Tourist Police: 0234-3826-288 (Hue)

Phu Bai International Airport

Airport information: +84 234 3861 249

Located approximately 15km south of Hue city center

Hue Tourism Information

Thua Thien Hue Tourism: +84 234 3828 137

Located at 30 Tran Quang Khai Street, Hue City for visitor assistance

Special Situations

Additional requirements for specific circumstances.

Traveling with Children

Children must have their own passport (family passports not accepted). Minors under 18 traveling without both parents should carry a notarized letter of consent from absent parent(s) including permission to travel, parent contact information, and trip details. Single parents should carry child's birth certificate showing parental relationship. Adoption papers should be carried if applicable. Unaccompanied minors require special airline arrangements and documentation.

Traveling with Pets

Pets require an import permit from Vietnam Department of Animal Health (apply 1-2 months in advance). Must have microchip, rabies vaccination (at least 30 days before travel but within validity), health certificate issued by licensed vet within 7 days of travel, and veterinary certificate endorsed by government authority in origin country. Quarantine may be required. Airlines have specific pet policies - confirm in advance. Consider pet-friendly accommodations are limited in Hue. Some breeds may be restricted.

Extended Stays

Tourist visas can be extended once for up to 30 days through immigration offices or travel agencies (fees apply, typically $10-50 USD). For stays beyond tourist visa limits, consider: Business visa (DN) for up to 12 months with sponsor; Temporary Residence Card for work, study, or family reunification (requires sponsorship); multiple-entry visa for frequent visitors. Overstaying results in fines of approximately $25 per day plus potential exit bans. Apply for extensions at least one week before current visa expires. Working on tourist visa is illegal - obtain proper work permit and business visa.

Dual Nationals

Vietnamese dual nationals (including children born abroad to Vietnamese parents) must enter and exit Vietnam using Vietnamese passport. Contact Vietnamese embassy before travel to determine nationality status and documentation requirements. Some countries' passports may not be recognized for entry if you have Vietnamese citizenship.

Journalists and Media Professionals

Professional journalists, film crews, and media professionals require special press visas and permits from Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Ministry of Culture. Apply well in advance (2+ months). Tourist visas do not permit professional journalism activities. Carrying professional camera equipment may trigger questions - have documentation ready.

Students and Researchers

Students enrolled in Vietnamese institutions need student visa (DH) sponsored by educational institution. Researchers require appropriate visa category and approval from host institution. Provide acceptance letters and institution documentation at immigration.