British travelers planning a trip to Vietnam in 2026 need to be aware of a new mandatory pre-travel requirement. This guide covers everything UK citizens need to know about the Vietnam Pre-Arrival Registration Form, including visa rules and step-by-step instructions.
Do British Citizens Need the Vietnam Pre-Arrival Form?
Yes. Since April 15, 2026, all foreign passport holders – including UK citizens – must complete the Vietnam Pre-Arrival Registration Form before arriving at a Vietnamese international airport. The form is free, takes 3-5 minutes, and is submitted at prearrival.immigration.gov.vn.
Visa Requirements for UK Citizens Visiting Vietnam in 2026
British citizens currently enjoy visa-free access to Vietnam for up to 45 days. This exemption was extended in 2022 and remains in place in 2026. For stays up to 45 days, no e-visa is required.
For stays exceeding 45 days, UK citizens must apply for a Vietnam e-visa at evisa.gov.vn:
- Single entry: USD 25
- Multiple entry: USD 50
- Processing: approximately 3 business days
The 45-day visa exemption does not remove the pre-arrival form requirement. These are separate obligations. Understand the difference: Vietnam pre-arrival form vs eVisa.
What British Travelers Need to Enter Vietnam
- Valid UK passport (6+ months validity from arrival date)
- Completed pre-arrival form (free – prearrival.immigration.gov.vn)
- QR code saved or printed
- Return or onward ticket
- Hotel or accommodation address
How to Complete the Form as a British Citizen
- Go to prearrival.immigration.gov.vn
- Select English, click “Create and Submit Declaration,” complete the CAPTCHA
- Enter your full name (as in British passport), passport number, gender, arrival date
- Select “Visa exemption” as your visa type, select United Kingdom, and enter 45 days as permitted stay
- Add flight number, departure city, hotel address in Vietnam, planned departure date
- Review, confirm, and submit
- Save your QR code – it appears instantly and is sent to your email
Full walkthrough: how to fill the Vietnam pre-arrival form.
Which Airports Do British Travelers Use?
UK travelers most commonly arrive at:
- Tan Son Nhat (SGN) – Ho Chi Minh City: pre-arrival form mandatory since April 2026
- Noi Bai (HAN) – Hanoi: form rolling out in 2026
- Da Nang (DAD): expanding
Airport guide: Vietnam pre-arrival form airports.
Tips for UK Travelers
- Complete the pre-arrival form 2-3 days before your flight – not on departure day
- Check your British passport expiry date – UK passports must have 6 months validity
- For trips longer than 45 days, apply for a Vietnam e-visa well in advance (at least 5 business days before travel)
- Screenshot the QR code – do not rely on receiving the email while on the plane
- Vietnam’s time zone is GMT+7 – factor this into your 72-hour submission window
Frequently Asked Questions
Do UK citizens need a visa for Vietnam in 2026?
No – British citizens can enter Vietnam visa-free for up to 45 days. For longer stays, an e-visa is required. The free pre-arrival declaration form is still mandatory regardless of visa status.
How long can UK citizens stay in Vietnam without a visa?
Up to 45 days. For longer stays, apply for an e-visa at evisa.gov.vn (USD 25 single / USD 50 multiple entry).
Can British citizens extend their stay in Vietnam?
Extensions are possible through a Vietnamese immigration office, though the process can be complex. Applying for a 90-day e-visa before travel is simpler for longer trips.
Is prearrival.immigration.gov.vn safe to use?
Yes – it is the official Vietnam government portal operated by the Vietnam Immigration Department. It is safe and free to use.