Instructions for entry at Cam Ranh airport 2026

Arriving at Cam Ranh International Airport, passengers must complete immigration clearance, baggage claim, and customs inspection before entering Vietnam. Foreign travelers are required to present a valid passport, appropriate Vietnam visa or approval letter, and supporting documents if requested. The entire entry process usually takes 30–45 minutes, depending on passenger volume. With proper preparation or Fast Track assistance, entry at Cam Ranh airport can be smooth and time-efficient.

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Where is Cam Ranh airport located?

Cam Ranh International Airport ^[1] is in Cam Ranh City, Khánh Hòa Province, around 35 km from central Nha Trang. It serves both domestic and international routes and is one of the busiest international arrival points in Vietnam’s central region.

>>> Read more: Vietnam visa processing time: E-visa, Visa On Arrival 2026

Who must complete entry procedures at Cam Ranh airport?

Foreign nationals entering Vietnam via CXR

All foreign passengers arriving at Cam Ranh must complete immigration clearance. You will need a valid passport and one of the following:

A valid Vietnam visa (sticker visa or e-visa), or

An Approval Letter (pre-approved by the Vietnam Immigration Department) if you are using visa on arrival.

Vietnamese citizens returning from overseas

Vietnamese citizens returning on a Vietnamese passport also complete entry procedures, then proceed to baggage claim and customs like other arrivals.

Transit passengers who want to exit the transit area

If you are transiting at Cam Ranh but plan to leave the transit area and enter Vietnam (even briefly), you must complete full immigration procedures and meet Vietnam’s entry requirements (visa/visa exemption as applicable).

Auto Gate note (important)

Vietnam’s automatic immigration gates (Auto Gate) exist, but foreigner eligibility is limited. Official guidance indicates foreigners may register/use Auto Gate only if they hold a valid Vietnamese temporary residence card or permanent residence card.
Practical availability can differ by airport and direction (entry vs exit), so do not rely on Auto Gate as your only plan unless you already qualify and have successfully registered.

>>> Read more: How to Stay in Vietnam Long Term: Your Complete Guide for 2026

Required documents for Cam Ranh airport immigration

Below is a practical checklist used by most travelers at Cam Ranh airport immigration.

Passport

Original passport (not damaged).

Many arrival guides recommend passport validity of at least 6 months beyond your planned stay and at least one blank page.

Vietnam visa (or visa exemption proof)

E-visa: bring a printed copy to present if requested.

Sticker visa: ensure the visa is valid and matches your travel purpose.

Approval Letter (for visa on arrival)

If you are applying for visa on arrival, you must have an Approval Letter issued in advance by the Vietnam Immigration Department and print it to present on arrival.

Entry form (if required)

Some passengers may be asked to complete an entry/arrival form depending on travel circumstances and current procedures. If you receive any form onboard, fill it in before landing to save time.

Visa stamping fee (for visa on arrival)

Visa on arrival often requires a stamping fee paid in cash (commonly USD). Keep small bills ready.

Onward ticket and accommodation information

Immigration officers may ask for:

Proof of onward/return flight, and/or

Your hotel address in Vietnam.

For children traveling with parents/guardians

Child’s passport (or passport where the child is included, if allowed under your country’s rules), and

Birth certificate copy (and/or supporting documents) to show relationship if requested.

>>> Read more: Hoi An Vietnam Travel: A Complete Guide for First-Time Visitors 2026

Step-by-step immigration process at Cam Ranh airport (CXR)

Step 1: Follow signs to “Arrivals” and immigration

After landing, walk to the arrival corridor and follow airport signage toward immigration/passport control.

Step 2: Queue at passport control (immigration counters)

Prepare these items in hand:

Passport

Vietnam visa / e-visa printout (if applicable)

Approval Letter (if visa on arrival)

The immigration officer will check your documents and stamp your entry if everything matches.

Step 3: Baggage claim

After immigration, go to the baggage belts. Check the carousel number on the screen and match your baggage tag to avoid picking up the wrong luggage.

Step 4: Customs inspection

You may pass through a green/red channel system (or be directed by staff). Declare honestly if you carry restricted items or quantities beyond allowances.

Cash declaration rule: Vietnam Customs requires declaration if you carry over USD 5,000 (or equivalent foreign currency) or over VND 15,000,000 in cash.

Step 5: Exit to arrivals hall

Once cleared, you exit to the public arrivals area where drivers, family, hotel representatives, and car services wait.

>>> Read more: Vietnam visa fees: Updated costs & What travelers should expect 2026

How long does Cam Ranh airport immigration take?

In normal conditions, arrival procedures at Cam Ranh often take 30–45 minutes, depending on passenger volume, staffing, and peak landing times.

Auto Gate can be much faster for eligible passengers, but eligibility is limited and registration may be required. For foreigners, official guidance ties Auto Gate use to holding valid Vietnamese residence cards (TRC/PRC).

>>> Read more: Vietnam visa types: Categories 2026

Common arrival problems

E-visa not printed / wrong details

Bring a printed copy and double-check passport number, entry port, and validity dates before departure.

Wrong visa type for your purpose

Tourist vs business vs family visit matters. If the purpose doesn’t match, you may be questioned or denied entry.

Approval Letter missing for visa on arrival

Airlines may refuse boarding without it, and immigration will not stamp your visa on arrival if you cannot present it.

Cash not declared

If you carry cash above thresholds, declare it to avoid penalties or seizure.

>>> Read more: How much cash can I bring to Vietnam? Update 2026

Fast Track arrival service at Cam Ranh airport by Tân Văn Lang

If you land during peak hours or travel with tight schedules, Vietnam Fast Track can be the easiest way to reduce waiting time and avoid confusion at the counters.

What Fast Track typically helps with

Priority support through the immigration process (faster lane where available)

Step-by-step guidance on arrival procedures

Assistance coordinating baggage-claim issues (missing/damaged luggage support)

Tân Văn Lang’s team has 20+ years of immigration experience (since 2003) and supports travelers, families, and business visitors with Vietnam entry procedures.

>>> Read more: Vietnam Airport Fast Track Service 2026 – Skip the Lines, Save Time

Frequently asked questions about Cam Ranh airport entry

Do I need a visa to enter Vietnam via Cam Ranh airport?

In most cases, yes—unless you qualify for Visa Exemption under Vietnam’s rules. If you use visa on arrival, you must have a pre-issued Approval Letter.

What are the carry-on and checked baggage rules on arrival?

Baggage limits depend on your airline and ticket class. Check your airline’s latest policy before flying. If you carry special items or large quantities, expect customs questions.

If I carry a large amount of cash, what should I do?

Declare it to Vietnam Customs if you carry more than USD 5,000 (or equivalent) or more than VND 15,000,000 in cash.

What if I have problems with my documents at immigration?

Inform airport staff immediately and explain the issue clearly (lost, damaged, expired documents).
Provide any replacements you have (passport copy, e-visa printout, approval letter, supporting letters).
Contact your embassy/consulate if identity verification is needed.

Need help before you fly to Cam Ranh?

With the entry instructions above, you can plan your arrival at Cam Ranh International Airport with fewer surprises. If you want a quick document check (visa type, approval letter, entry conditions, or Fast Track support), contact Tân Văn Lang via 08.666.000.63 (WhatsApp) . We’ll help you get cleared smoothly—without guesswork.