June 30, 2025
Visa tips

Your Ultimate Guide to Fast Entry at Hue City’s Int’l Airport (Phu Bai): A Smooth Arrival in Vietnam

Welcome to Hue, the former imperial capital of Vietnam, a city rich in history, culture, and breathtaking landscapes! As you plan your journey, one of the first experiences you’ll have is arriving at Hue City’s Int’l Airport – Phu Bai (HUI). While the excitement of starting your Vietnamese adventure is palpable, navigating any international airport can come with its share of procedures and potential delays, especially at the immigration checkpoint.

This guide is designed to provide you with all the essential information you need for a seamless arrival. We’ll cover everything from pre-flight preparations to navigating the airport based on your visa status, and most importantly, how you can achieve fast entry at Hue City’s Int’l Airport to begin your trip without unnecessary stress or delays.

What to Prepare Before Arriving at Hue City’s Int’l Airport – Phu Bai

A little preparation goes a long way in ensuring a smooth start to your Vietnamese holiday. Before you even board your flight to Hue, here are some key things you should consider:

1. Visa Confirmation:

  • E-visa Holders: Ensure your e-visa is printed out and readily accessible. Double-check that all the details on your e-visa match your passport information exactly.
  • Visa-Free Visitors: Confirm your eligibility for visa-free entry and understand the maximum duration of stay allowed under this exemption. Ensure your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your intended stay.
  • Visa-on-Arrival (VOA) Holders: This is crucial. You must have your pre-approved visa letter (also known as an approval letter or invitation letter) printed out. Without this, you will not be allowed to board your flight, nor will you be able to obtain a visa upon arrival.

2. Passport Validity:

Regardless of your visa status, your passport must be valid for at least six months from your date of entry into Vietnam. Check this well in advance of your travel date.

3. Required Documents:

  • Passport
  • Printed e-visa (if applicable)
  • Printed visa approval letter (for VOA, if applicable)
  • Completed NA1 form (for VOA, download link available below)
  • Passport-sized photos (4×6 cm, for VOA)
  • Cash for visa stamping fee (for VOA, in USD or VND)
  • Flight itinerary (onward or return ticket may be requested)
  • Hotel booking confirmation (sometimes requested)

4. Currency:

While credit cards are accepted in many places in Hue, it’s wise to have some Vietnamese Dong (VND) on hand for immediate expenses like taxis or small purchases upon arrival. You can exchange currency at the airport, but rates might be slightly less favorable than in the city. For VOA holders, remember the visa stamping fee must be paid in cash (USD or VND).

5. Address in Vietnam:

You’ll need to provide the address of your accommodation in Vietnam on your arrival/departure card. Keep this information handy.

💡 Consider Your Arrival Experience:

Waiting in lines at the immigration checkpoint in Hue City’s Int’l Airport can be exhausting, especially after a long flight. Queues can be unpredictable and sometimes lengthy. If you value your time and prefer a stress-free arrival, you should seriously consider booking a Fast Entry Service in advance before you go. This service is specifically designed to help you skip the queues at the immigration checkpoint as a VIP, allowing you to start enjoying Hue much sooner. For those requiring a visa on arrival, this service can also handle the visa stamping process for you, making your fast entry at Hue City’s Int’l Airport even smoother.

About Hue City’s Int’l Airport – Phu Bai (IATA: HUI, ICAO: VVPB)

Phu Bai International Airport (IATA: HUI, ICAO: VVPB) serves the city of Hue and the surrounding Thua Thien Hue province. It plays a vital role in connecting this historic region with other parts of Vietnam and, increasingly, with international destinations.

Terminals:

  • Terminal 1 (Old Terminal): Previously handled all domestic and international flights. It may still be used for some domestic services or as a backup.
  • Terminal 2 (New International Terminal): Officially inaugurated in April 2023, Terminal 2 is a modern facility designed to handle the growing number of international visitors to Hue. It boasts contemporary architecture inspired by Hue’s imperial heritage, with a capacity to serve up to 5 million passengers annually. This is where you will likely arrive if you are on an international flight. It offers improved services, more space, and a more comfortable arrival experience.

Location:

Phu Bai International Airport is located approximately 15 kilometers (about 9 miles) south of Hue city center.

Transport to City Center:

  • Taxi: This is the most common and convenient way to get to the city center. Taxis are readily available outside the arrivals hall. Reputable taxi companies include Mai Linh (green taxis) and Taxi Vang (yellow taxis). Always ensure the meter is used, or agree on a fixed price beforehand. The journey typically takes around 20-30 minutes, depending on traffic. Expect to pay between 250,000 VND to 350,000 VND.
  • Airport Shuttle Bus: Some shuttle bus services operate between the airport and various points in Hue city. This can be a more economical option, though potentially less direct than a taxi. Inquire at the information desk upon arrival for current schedules and routes.
  • Grab/Ride-hailing Apps: Ride-hailing services like Grab are popular in Vietnam and often offer competitive pricing. You’ll need internet access on your phone to use these apps. There are designated pick-up points for these services.
  • Hotel Transfer: Many hotels in Hue offer pre-booked airport transfer services. This can be a hassle-free option, especially if you’re arriving late at night or with a lot of luggage. Check with your hotel when you make your reservation.

Airport Amenities:

The new Terminal 2 offers standard international airport amenities, including:

  • Currency exchange counters
  • ATMs (though note the specific advice for VOA holders regarding no ATMs in the visa-on-arrival area)
  • SIM card vendors
  • Food and beverage outlets
  • Duty-free shops
  • Information desks
  • Restrooms
  • Free Wi-Fi (availability and quality can vary)

Understanding these basics about the airport will help you feel more oriented upon arrival.

How to Navigate Hue City’s Int’l Airport for E-visa Holders and Visa-Free Visitors

If you are an e-visa holder or a citizen of a country eligible for visa-free entry to Vietnam, your arrival process at Hue City’s Int’l Airport will be relatively straightforward. Here’s a step-by-step guide:

1. Deplane and Follow Signs:

After disembarking from your aircraft, follow the signs for “Arrivals” and “Immigration” (Khu vực Nhập Cảnh).

2. Proceed to Immigration Checkpoint:

Head directly to the immigration counters.

👉 Queue for Your Turn: This is where you might encounter queues. Lines are typically segregated for Vietnamese passport holders and foreign passport holders.

👉 Present Your Documents: When it’s your turn, present the immigration officer with:

  • Your valid passport
  • Your printed e-visa (if applicable)

👉 Immigration Clearance: The officer will check your documents, stamp your passport with the entry date, and, if you’re an e-visa holder, verify your e-visa.

3. Baggage Claim:

After clearing immigration, proceed to the baggage claim area (Khu vực Lấy Hành Lý). Check the display screens for your flight number to find the correct baggage carousel.

4. Customs Check:

Once you have collected your luggage, proceed to the customs checkpoint (Khu vực Hải Quan). If you have nothing to declare, you can usually pass through the “Green Channel.” If you have items to declare, use the “Red Channel.”

5. Exit the Airport:

After clearing customs, you will enter the arrivals hall. From here, you can find taxis, currency exchange, information desks, or meet your pre-arranged transportation. Welcome to Hue!

Note for E-visa Holders and Visa-Free Visitors to Navigate Hue City’s Int’l Airport

  • Print Your E-visa: Always have a physical copy of your e-visa. While some officers might accept a digital copy on your phone, a printed version is safer and can expedite the process.
  • Check E-visa Details: Ensure all information on your e-visa (name, passport number, date of birth, entry/exit dates, entry port) is accurate and matches your passport. Any discrepancies can cause issues.
  • Understand Visa-Free Conditions: If you are entering visa-free, be aware of the maximum number of days you are allowed to stay and ensure your passport has at least six months of validity.
  • Queues are Possible: Even with an e-visa or visa-free status, you may still face queues at the immigration checkpoint, especially during peak arrival times. This is a common occurrence at many international airports.
  • The VIP Option for Fast Entry: If the thought of waiting in line after your flight is unappealing, remember that the Fast Entry Service at Hue City’s Int’l Airport is available to you. By booking this service, our team will meet you upon arrival and escort you through priority lanes at the immigration checkpoint for swift processing. This means you can bypass the regular queues and get to your baggage claim and onward to Hue much faster.

How to Navigate Hue City’s Int’l Airport for Visa-on-Arrival Holders

If you are arriving with a pre-approved visa letter to obtain your visa on arrival (VOA), your process will have an additional step before you reach the main immigration checkpoint.

1. Deplane and Follow Signs:

After disembarking, look for signs directing you to the “Landing Visa Counter,” “Visa on Arrival Counter,” or “Visa Issuing Office” (Nơi Cấp Thị Thực Tại Cửa Khẩu). This counter is typically located before the main immigration checkpoint.

2. Proceed to the Landing Visa Counter:

This is your first stop.

👉 Submit Your Documents: At the Landing Visa Counter, you will need to submit:

  • Your original passport
  • Your printed visa approval letter
  • Your completed NA1 form (Vietnamese Visa Application Form) with an attached passport-sized photo (4×6 cm).
  • Cash for the visa stamping fee (US25forasingle−entryvisa,US50 for a multi-entry visa – ensure you have the exact amount in USD or VND).

👉 Wait for Visa Processing: After submitting your documents and payment, you will need to wait for your visa to be processed and your passport to be returned with the visa sticker. This is where significant queues and waiting times can occur, especially if multiple flights arrive simultaneously.

👉 Receive Your Passport with Visa: Once your name is called, collect your passport and check that the visa sticker is correct (dates, entry type, personal details).

3. Proceed to Immigration Checkpoint:

With your visa now in your passport, you can proceed to the main immigration checkpoint.

  1. Queue for Immigration: Join the queue for foreign passport holders.
  2. Present Your Passport: Present your passport (now with the visa sticker) to the immigration officer.
  3. Immigration Clearance: The officer will check your visa and stamp your passport with the entry date.

4. Baggage Claim:

Proceed to the baggage claim area.

5. Customs Check:

Collect your luggage and go through customs.

6. Exit the Airport:

You are now ready to start your Hue adventure!

Note for Visa-on-Arrival Holders to Navigate Hue City’s Int’l Airport

1. Crucial Checklist for Visa-on-Arrival:

  • Visa Approval Letter: This is non-negotiable. You must have it printed.
  • Completed NA1 Form: Download it from a reliable source (like the link provided: https://www.vietnamimmigration.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/11/Vietnamese-visa-application-form-Form-NA1.pdf) and fill it out beforehand to save time.
  • Passport-sized Photo: A 4×6 cm photo is required to be attached to the NA1 form.
  • Cash for Stamping Fee: USD or VND only. US25forasingle−entryvisa(1or3months),US50 for a multiple-entry visa (1 or 3 months). Crucially, there is no ATM in the visa-on-arrival processing area. You must have this cash with you.

2. Potential for Long Waits:

The Landing Visa Counter can be a significant bottleneck. Waiting times can range from 15 minutes to an hour, or even longer during peak periods.

3. Fast Entry Service is Your Best Friend:

If you are a VOA holder, our Fast Entry Service at Hue City’s Int’l Airport is exceptionally beneficial.

  • Hassle-Free Visa Pickup: Our team can take care of the entire visa stamping process for you. We will handle the submission of your documents and payment at the Landing Visa Counter.
  • No Photo? No Cash? No Problem! If you arrive without a passport-sized photo or the correct cash for the stamping fee, or even if you haven’t completed your NA1 form, our team on the ground can help get these sorted quickly.
  • Skip Immigration Queues: After your visa is processed, we will then escort you through the priority lanes at the main immigration checkpoint. This dual benefit significantly reduces your waiting time and stress. Achieving fast entry at Hue City’s Int’l Airport is made simple with this service.

How to Skip Queuing at the Immigration Checkpoint at Hue City’s Int’l Airport?

The most effective and stress-free way to skip the potentially long queues at the immigration checkpoint at Hue City’s Int’l Airport is by using a Fast Entry Service.

This service is designed for travelers who value their time and prefer a smoother, more expedited arrival experience. Here’s how it typically works:

1. Pre-Booking:

You book the Fast Entry Service online before your trip to Hue.

2. Meet and Greet:

Upon your arrival at Phu Bai Airport, a representative from the service provider (our team, if you book with us) will be waiting for you. They will usually hold a sign with your name or the service name, making them easy to identify, often right as you enter the terminal from the aerobridge or arrival gate.

Document Check (if needed): They may quickly verify you have all necessary documents.

3. Priority Lane Escort:

The representative will then escort you directly to a dedicated priority lane or a special counter at the immigration checkpoint. This allows you to bypass the regular queues.

4. Assistance Beyond Immigration (Optional):

Depending on the service package, assistance might extend to baggage claim or escorting you to your pre-arranged transport. For VOA holders, as mentioned, the service often includes handling the entire visa stamping process at the Landing Visa Counter.

By utilizing this service, you transform your arrival from a potentially lengthy wait into a swift, VIP experience. This is the premier method for achieving fast entry at Hue City’s Int’l Airport.

How to Book the Fast Entry Service to Avoid Queues at Hue City’s Int’l Airport?

Booking our Fast Entry Service for Hue City’s Int’l Airport is a simple and straightforward process designed to give you peace of mind before you even depart for Vietnam.

1. Visit Our Website:

Navigate to the Fast Entry Service section on Vietnamimmigration.org.

2. Provide Your Details:

You will typically need to provide:

  • Your full name (as per your passport)
  • Your passport number
  • Your flight number and arrival date/time at Hue City’s Int’l Airport (HUI)
  • Your contact information (email and phone number)
  • The number of passengers requiring the service.

Select Your Service: Choose the specific Fast Entry package that suits your needs (e.g., immigration fast track only, or visa-on-arrival support plus immigration fast track).

3. Make Payment:

Complete the secure online payment. We offer various payment methods, including PayPal, for your convenience and security.

4. Receive Confirmation:

You will receive a confirmation email with all the details of your booking, including instructions on where and how to meet our representative upon your arrival at Phu Bai Airport.

It’s highly recommended to book the service at least 24-48 hours in advance of your arrival, especially during peak travel seasons, to ensure availability. Booking fast entry at Hue City’s Int’l Airport in advance is key to a seamless experience.

Is It Safe to Book the Fast Entry Service Through vietnamimmigration.org?

Absolutely. We understand that trust and security are paramount when booking travel services online. Vietnamimmigration.org is a reputable and experienced provider, and here’s why you can feel confident booking your Fast Entry Service at Hue City’s Int’l Airport with us:

👉 Over 15 Years of Experience:

Vietnamimmigration.org has been a trusted name in Vietnam visa and travel services since 2008. With over 15 years in the field, we have a deep understanding of airport procedures and a proven track record of assisting thousands of travelers. You can verify our domain’s history at https://www.whois.com/whois/vietnamimmigration.org/.

👉 100% Money-Back Guarantee Policy:

We stand by the quality of our service. Vietnamimmigration.org offers a 100% money-back guarantee if we fail to deliver the service as promised. You can review our full refund policy here: https://www.vietnamimmigration.org/refund-policy/.

👉 Secure Payment via PayPal with Buyer Protection:

We offer payment through PayPal, one of the most secure online payment gateways worldwide. This also provides you with PayPal’s Buyer Protection policy, adding an extra layer of security to your transaction. Learn more about PayPal Buyer Protection here: https://www.paypal.com/vn/webapps/mpp/paypal-buyer-protection.

👉 Positive Customer Reviews:

Don’t just take our word for it. See what our satisfied customers are saying about our services on independent review platforms like Sitejabber: https://www.sitejabber.com/reviews/vietnamimmigration.org.

👉 Data Protection Commitment:

We prioritize your privacy. We use encrypted systems for all transactions and communications and strictly comply with data protection laws. We guarantee that your personal data will never be used for marketing purposes or sold to third parties.

Choosing Vietnamimmigration.org for your fast entry at Hue City’s Int’l Airport means choosing a reliable, experienced, and secure partner for your arrival in Vietnam.

Tips for a Smooth Arrival at Hue City’s Int’l Airport

Beyond the visa and immigration procedures, here are a few extra tips to ensure your arrival at Phu Bai Airport and your first moments in Hue are as smooth as possible:

1. Double-Check Visa Requirements (Again!):

It bears repeating. Ensure you understand and meet all visa requirements for Vietnam well before your departure. This is the single most important step.

2. Duty-Free Allowances:

Be aware of Vietnam’s duty-free allowances to avoid any issues at customs. Generally, for international arrivals, this includes:

  • Alcohol: 1.5 liters of spirits (over 20% alcohol content) or 2 liters of fortified wine/liqueurs (under 20% alcohol content) or 3 liters of beer.
  • Tobacco: 200 cigarettes or 20 cigars or 250 grams of tobacco.
  • A reasonable quantity of perfume and personal effects.
  • Other goods up to a certain value (check current regulations as these can change).

3. Prohibited Items:

Do not bring prohibited items into Vietnam. This includes, but is not limited to:

  • Narcotics and psychotropic substances
  • Weapons, ammunition, and explosives
  • Anti-government documents or materials, or items deemed culturally inappropriate
  • Pornographic materials
  • Certain types of plants, animals, or food products that could carry diseases.

4. Restricted Items:

Some items may be restricted and require special permits or declarations, such as certain medications (carry a doctor’s prescription), large amounts of currency (over USD 5,000 or equivalent needs declaration), or antiques.

5. Pre-arrange Transportation (Especially if arriving late):

While taxis are available, pre-booking a transfer with your hotel or a reputable service can provide peace of mind, especially if you’re arriving late at night, are unfamiliar with the area, or have a lot of luggage.

6. Have Local Currency (Small Denominations):

Having some Vietnamese Dong in smaller notes is useful for initial expenses like a bottle of water or small tips.

7. Stay Connected:

Consider purchasing a local SIM card at the airport for data and local calls. This can be very helpful for navigation, communication, and using ride-hailing apps.

8. Pack Patience or Fast Entry:

Airport arrivals can be unpredictable. While Hue’s new terminal is efficient, unforeseen delays can happen. Pack a good dose of patience. Or, better yet, eliminate the biggest potential delay by booking the Fast Entry Service at Hue City’s Int’l Airport and start your Vietnamese adventure with a smile and without the wait.

By following these tips and being well-prepared, you’re setting yourself up for a fantastic start to your journey in Hue. We wish you an incredible trip to Vietnam, filled with unforgettable experiences, and look forward to potentially assisting you with a swift and comfortable fast entry at Hue City’s Int’l Airport!

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Welcome to Vietnam! You’re likely filled with excitement for the adventures that await you, whether it’s exploring historic sites, enjoying beautiful landscapes, or indulging in delicious local cuisine. Your journey begins the moment you land, and navigating a new airport in a foreign country can sometimes feel a bit daunting.