The change is subtle, but it can have an immediate impact on the customer experience. Since mid-April, a new digital procedure has been in place for arrivals in Ho Chi Minh City. Nothing major in itself, but a detail that can quickly become a point of friction if your travelers aren't prepared.
In a context where Vietnam is confirming its momentum in the French market, this type of operational adjustment deserves to be integrated without delay into your customer journeys.
Summary
What is actually changing in Ho Chi Minh City
According to the specialized press, Vietnamese authorities have introduced an online registration procedure for foreign travelers arriving at Tan Son Nhat International Airport.
The objective is clear: to streamline immigration controls at an airport experiencing increasing traffic.
This is not a visa or travel authorization, but a digital formality to be completed before arrival. Once completed, a QR code is generated and presented upon arrival.
In practice, this step speeds up the passage through security. Conversely, travelers who have not completed it may be directed to longer queues.
A simple procedure… but one that needs to be integrated into the customer journey
The process is done online, via a dedicated portal. The information requested remains standard: identity, passport, flight information.
On paper, it's simple. But in reality, it's an additional step added to the traveler's journey, with a risk of forgetting or making a mistake.
And that is precisely where the role of the distributor becomes truly valuable.
A direct impact on the experience from the moment of arrival
Arriving in a country is a key moment. It's the first concrete contact with the destination.
A smooth immigration process immediately enhances a positive perception of the trip. Conversely, a prolonged wait can generate fatigue and frustration within minutes.
This type of procedure, even a simple one, therefore becomes a lever for customer experience… provided it is well anticipated.
A new standard in travel formalities
Vietnam is part of a global trend: the digitalization of border controls.
More and more destinations are implementing similar systems to better manage flows and secure entry into the territory.
For tourism professionals, this implies an evolution in their advisory role. Support no longer stops at the booking stage; it now extends to the pre-trip arrangements.
What this means for agencies and tour operators
In practical terms, this new procedure requires adapting practices.
This information must be included in travel documents, pre-departure emails, and communications with the client. A simple oversight can directly impact the on-site experience.
Agencies that structure this step in their customer journey reduce operational risk and strengthen their image of reliability.
Conversely, a lack of information can generate misunderstandings… and negative feedback that could have been avoided.
A subtle but real differentiating factor
In a market where Vietnam is becoming increasingly competitive, this type of detail can make all the difference.
An agency capable of anticipating these micro-evolutions offers a smoother and more reassuring experience.
It is often invisible to the customer… until the moment it becomes critical.
And that is precisely where the difference lies between a standard service and a fully controlled experience from start to finish.
This is a development that needs to be closely monitored
At this stage, the procedure concerns Ho Chi Minh City airport. Its development and possible extension to other points of entry will need to be monitored in the coming months.
As is often the case with this type of system, the arrangements can change rapidly depending on feedback from the field and tourist flows.
In short
- A new online procedure is being implemented upon arrival in Ho Chi Minh City
- It allows you to generate a QR code to present to immigration
- The aim is to streamline checks upon arrival
- Entry is still possible without registration, but it will be slower
- A step to integrate into the customer journey right now
Sources
https://www.tourmag.com/Vietnam-une-nouvelle-procedure-pour-les-voyageurs_a131490.html
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