Complete Guide to Vietnam Airports: Tan Son Nhat (SGN), Noi Bai (HAN) & Da Nang (DAD)

This guide covers everything you need to know about Vietnam’s three main international gateways: Tan Son Nhat (SGN) in Ho Chi Minh City, Noi Bai (HAN) in Hanoi and Da Nang (DAD) in central Vietnam. You’ll find terminal layouts, where the visa counters are, the best VIP lounges, and how a fast track service can get you through immigration in minutes.

Tan Son Nhat is Vietnam’s busiest airport and the main gateway to Ho Chi Minh City, located just 7 kilometers from District 1. That short distance is great news — but its popularity also means some of the longest immigration queues in the country at peak hours.

Terminal layout:

• Terminal 2 (T2) – International: all international arrivals and departures.

• Terminal 3 (T3) – Domestic (new): since May 17, 2025, all Vietnam Airlines domestic flights operate from the new T3, along with Vietjet. Pacific Airlines and Vasco also moved their domestic flights to T3 from August 19, 2025. The terminal is designed for 20 million passengers a year.

• Terminal 1 (T1) – Domestic: used by the remaining smaller domestic carriers.

Connecting from international to domestic:

If you land at T2 and continue on a domestic flight, allow at least 2.5–3 hours. You’ll clear immigration, collect your bags, then walk or take the shuttle to T1 or T3 for a new check-in.

Coming soon: Long Thanh International Airport:

A new mega airport is opening east of the city. The Civil Aviation Authority of Vietnam has proposed that Long Thanh begin commercial operations on December 1, 2026, and from the Summer 2027 schedule all long-haul international flights would move there. If you’re traveling from late 2026, double-check which airport your international flight uses.

Noi Bai is the gateway to northern Vietnam — Hanoi, Ha Long Bay, Ninh Binh and Sapa. The airport is about 30–45 minutes’ drive from Hanoi’s Old Quarter, depending on traffic.

Terminal layout:

• Terminal 2 (T2) – International: a modern terminal with clear signage, duty-free shops and several lounges.

• Terminal 1 (T1) – Domestic: for flights to Ho Chi Minh City, Da Nang, Phu Quoc and other domestic destinations.

The two terminals are around 1 km apart, connected by a free shuttle bus. Allow time if you’re switching between international and domestic flights.

Arrival tips:

Morning and late-evening arrivals from Europe, Korea and China often overlap, creating long queues at immigration. This is when a fast track service makes the biggest difference.

Da Nang is one of the most convenient airports in Asia: just a few minutes from the city center and beaches, and around 45 minutes from Hoi An. It’s the perfect entry point for Hoi An, Hue and Ba Na Hills.

Terminal layout:

• Terminal 2 (T2) – International: compact and easy to navigate.

• Terminal 1 (T1) – Domestic.

Although smaller than SGN and HAN, Da Nang receives many flights arriving at the same time from Korea and other Asian cities, especially in the evening — so queues can still build up quickly.

Which visa do you need?

Most travelers enter Vietnam with an e-visa. The e-visa was extended from a maximum of 30 days single entry to a maximum of 90 days with single or multiple entry, and since August 2023 it’s available to citizens of all countries. Government fees are USD 25 for single entry and USD 50 for multiple entry.

Some nationalities can enter visa-free for a limited period. Always check the official rules for your passport before you fly.

The immigration process step by step:

Lotus Lounge (Vietnam Airlines):

The Lotus Lounge is Vietnam Airlines’ signature lounge, available at its main hubs including Tan Son Nhat, Noi Bai and Da Nang. Expect a calm space with Vietnamese and international food, phở stations, drinks, Wi-Fi and comfortable seating.

Access: Business Class passengers, eligible Lotusmiles and SkyTeam elite members — and in some cases, paid access.

Other lounges:

Each airport also has independent and bank-card lounges (accessible with Priority Pass or similar programs). These are a great option if you fly with a low-cost carrier or have a long layover.

At peak times, the wait at immigration can exceed an hour. A fast track service is the easiest way to avoid it.

How it works:

• An agent waits for you at the arrival gate with a sign bearing your name.

• You’re escorted to the priority immigration lane.

• If you have a visa on arrival, the agent handles the paperwork for you.

• The agent assists with your baggage and customs, then walks you to your car or driver.

Who is it for?

• Business travelers with tight schedules

• Families traveling with young children

• Seniors and travelers with reduced mobility

• First-time visitors who want a stress-free arrival

Fast track is also available on departure, for priority check-in, security and immigration.

Whether you land in Ho Chi Minh City, Hanoi or Da Nang, knowing your terminal, your visa type and your options in advance makes all the difference. And if you want to skip the queues and start your trip relaxed, our Vietnam fast track service is there to welcome you from the aircraft door to your car.