Flying internationally from Tan Son Nhat International Airport (SGN) in Ho Chi Minh City can be a bit daunting, especially for first-time travelers. This guide is here to simplify the process, walking you through each step clearly and easily. You’ll also find useful tips along the way to help make your journey as smooth and stress-free as possible.
Getting from Ho Chi Minh City to Tan Son Nhat Airport: A Guide
Tan Son Nhat Airport is located approximately 6 to 8 kilometers (4 to 5 miles) from the heart of Ho Chi Minh City. Travel time by car typically ranges from 20 to 40 minutes, depending on traffic conditions.
You have up to 3 main options for transportation from the city to the airport, consisting of:
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Taxi or Ride-Hailing Apps: Taxis or apps like Grab are simple to use. A ride costs about 150,000-250,000 VND (6-10 USD).
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Public Bus: Buses like Route 152 or 109 are cheap (around 6,000-20,000 VND), but they take longer and aren’t great if you have big bags.
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Private Car: For a comfy and easy ride, book a private car ahead of time.
Tip: For international flights, arrive at the airport 3 hours before your flight. Add extra time if it’s a busy time (like 6:00–9:00 AM or 4:00–7:00 PM) or if traffic is bad.
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Tan Son Nhat Airport Departure Procedure
Here’s the full process to leave from Tan Son Nhat International Airport (International Terminal). It’s easy if you follow these steps!

►Step 1: Arrive at the Check-In Area
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Where to go: Go to the International Terminal(Terminal 2). The check-in area is on the 2nd floor.
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Check-in counters: There are many counters divided into zones (A, B, C, D, etc.).
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Vietnam Airlines: Usually in zones C or D.
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Other airlines: Check zones A, B, or others.
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How to find your counter: Look at the big screens (Flight Information Display Screens or FIDs). They show your flight and counter number.
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Tip: Get there 3 hours early to have time for everything.
►Step 2: Check-In and Drop Off Luggage
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What to do: Go to your airline’s counter. Show your passport and ticket (or booking code). If you have bags, give them to the staff.
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Tip: Check your boarding pass after this. It tells you your gate number and boarding time.
►Step 3: Pass Through Immigration
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What to do: After check-in, go to the Immigration area. Show your passport and boarding pass. The officer will stamp your passport to let you leave Vietnam.
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Tip: Lines can be long, especially in the afternoon or weekends. Be patient and keep your documents ready.
►Step 4: Security Check
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What to do:
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Put your bags on the conveyor belt for an X-ray.
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Take out liquids (like water or lotion) and put them in a tray. Each bottle must be 100ml or smaller.
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Remove shoes, jacket, phone, and keys, and place them in the tray.
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Walk through the metal detector.
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Tip: Pack liquids in small bottles before you come, or you might have to throw them away.
►Step 5: Customs (If Needed)
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Cash declaration: If you have more than 5,000 USD or 15,000,000 VND, tell the customs officers.
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VAT refund: If you’re a foreigner and bought things in Vietnam, you can get a tax refund. You need receipts and the items with you.
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Tip: Ask customs staff if you’re not sure what to do.
►Step 6: Find Your Gate and Board
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Where to go: After security, go to your gate. Check your boarding pass or the FID screens for the gate number.
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Gates are spread out in the terminal (check signs to find yours).
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What to do: Show your boarding pass and passport at the gate, then get on the plane!
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Tip: Be at the gate 30 minutes before boarding starts.
Important Tips for a Smooth Departure
Here are 5 tips that you should always keep in mind to make your departure from Tan Son Nhat International Airport smooth:
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Arrive Early:Get to the airport 3 hours before your flight to avoid rushing.
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Prepare Documents:Keep your passport, ticket, and boarding pass handy at all times.
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Pack Smart:Follow liquid rules (100ml or less) and avoid carrying too much cash without declaring it.
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Check Screens:Look at the FID screens often—gate numbers or times can change.
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Ask for Help:If you’re confused, airport staff are there to assist you.
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Wishing you a safe journey—we look forward to helping you again soon!
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