✈️ Fast Track Entry to Vietnam 2026: Is It Worth It? 🛃💨
- Leanne Gayle
- Nov 17
- 3 min read
Flying into Vietnam soon and wondering if you should pay extra for Fast Track Entry? Here’s a clear, no-nonsense guide based on traveller experiences, airport data, and real arrival times - so you can decide whether it’s worth it for you.
🧭 What Is Vietnam’s Fast Track Service?
Fast Track Entry is an optional airport add-on that helps passengers skip long immigration and visa queues. An airport representative meets you after landing, escorts you through a priority lane, and helps with luggage and customs if you choose the VIP version.
It’s available at major international airports such as Hanoi (Noi Bai), Ho Chi Minh City (Tan Son Nhat), and Da Nang, with limited or seasonal service at Phu Quoc and Nha Trang.
✨ Still deciding your itinerary? Get a free personalised Vietnam itinerary with photos, prices, and a full plan.
💰 How Much Does It Cost?
Prices vary depending on the airport and level of service:
Type | What It Includes | Typical Price (USD per person) |
Standard Fast Track | Skip the queue, escorted through immigration | $25 – $35 |
VIP Fast Track | Plus luggage & customs assistance | $40 – $60 |
Arrival + Departure Combo | Both ways | $70 – $90 |
⏱️ How Long Are the Normal Queues?
It depends heavily on time of day and season:
Situation | Typical Wait Time |
Peak hours (6–9 AM / 7–11 PM) | 40 – 60 min |
Midday, non-holiday period | 20 – 30 min |
Major holidays (Tet / New Year) | 60 – 90 min + |
Small airports (Da Nang, Phu Quoc) | 10 – 25 min |
Travelling during Tet Holiday? Travelling in Vietnam During Tet Holiday (2026 Guide)
Travellers who used Fast Track generally report being through immigration in 10 – 20 minutes.
🎯 When It’s Worth Paying For
✅ You’re arriving at Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh City in the morning or late evening.
✅ You’re jet-lagged, travelling with kids or elderly parents, or have mobility needs.
✅ You’ve got a tight connection — domestic flight, tour, or Ha Long cruise pick-up.
✅ You value comfort and time more than saving a few dollars.
⚖️ When It’s Probably Not Worth It
❌ You land midday at a smaller or quieter airport.
❌ You’re travelling light with an e-visa already printed.
❌ You don’t mind a 20- to 30-minute queue.
❌ You prefer to keep things budget-friendly and relaxed.
📊 Realistic Chances You’ll “Need” It
Busy airports (SGN / HAN): around 60–70 % of long-haul arrivals see queues over 30 minutes.
Smaller airports (Da Nang, Phu Quoc): only 20–30 % of arrivals exceed 30 minutes.
Off-peak flights: rarely more than 20 minutes of waiting.
So for most travellers, Fast Track is a nice-to-have luxury, not a must.
🧾 Things to Know Before You Book
You still need a valid e-Visa — Fast Track only speeds up the airport process.
Make sure your arrival details are correct (flight number, time, terminal).
Check what’s actually included — some services only cover immigration, not baggage.
If your flight time changes, inform the provider to avoid missed pick-ups.
Tipping is optional but appreciated (usually $2–5).
🧠 Final Advice
For most travellers, Vietnam’s Fast Track Entry isn’t essential — but it can be a worthwhile comfort upgrade after a long flight or during peak holiday rush.If you’re landing at a busy airport or connecting straight to a tour, it’s money well spent. Otherwise, you’ll be fine joining the normal queue and saving your budget for a coffee and banh mi once you’re through.
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