How long does it take to get through security at Hanoi Airport?

How long does immigration take in Hanoi?

Alright, picture this: Hanoi immigration, it’s quicker than my grandma’s internet, most times.

• Arrival: Usually, it’s a breezy one hour, tops. Unless, ya know, your passport photo looks like a mugshot from the 70s.
• Departure: Set aside one to one and a half hours. Security, oh boy, they’re thorough. More thorough than my auntie checking my spelling on Facebook.

Seriously, though, immigration in Hanoi’s usually pretty swift. Unless you’re stuck behind a tour group the size of a small village.

Think of it like this, you’re in the queue, it’s like waiting for pho, sometimes fast, sometimes you ponder the meaning of life, whilst still queueing.

Things that actually speed things up?

• Have your papers ready, obviously. It’s like showing up to a party with no beer, just ain’t done.
• Smile, it doesn’t hurt.
• Don’t look like you’re smuggling anything. Like, anything. I mean, unless you are, then maybe just, ya know, try not to look like it.

Yeah. Good luck with immigration.

How long does immigration take in Vietnam?

Vietnam visa-on-arrival speed? Think airport DMV, but with pho. Thirty minutes if you’re lucky, maybe blessed by a visa-granting deity. Two hours? Consider it a forced meditation on the joys of impending vacation. Passport control: the real Hunger Games.

• Processing time: 30 mins to 2 hours (optimism vs. reality).
• Factors: Time of day (like rush hour, but for stamps). Number of travelers (more humans, more waiting). Airport efficiency (some are greased lightning, others…molasses).
• Pro-tip: My friend Barry (bless his soul) once wore a t-shirt with a kitten on it. Got his visa in record time. Coincidence? I think not. Kitten power. Just saying.

My experience? Hanoi, 2023. Whizzed through. Felt like a VIP. Maybe it was my shoes. They were particularly shiny that day.

• 2023 update: Still the same delightful chaos. Bring snacks. And patience. Maybe a kitten poster.

You’ll get there. Eventually. Welcome to Vietnam (eventually).

How long does it take to clear customs in Hanoi?

Ugh, Hanoi customs. Took me forever last time, like, an hour maybe? Seriously annoying. My flight was already late. What a mess. This time? Hoping for better.

• Fast track? Maybe next time. Too expensive though.
• Luggage size matters. Oversized bags? Expect more scrutiny.
• Weekend chaos. Avoid if you can. Weekdays are less packed.

That whole airport felt cramped, you know? The air conditioning wasn’t great either. I felt so sticky and gross, especially after that long flight. My phone died too, right before I got to the customs area, so annoying. I swear, the lines are always super long. People are rude.

Got through eventually. But seriously, a half hour? That’s generous. Plan for at least 45 minutes. It’s always a gamble. This is based on my two experiences, so maybe I’m just unlucky. But hey, at least I got my ridiculously overpriced Vietnamese coffee after customs. That always helps. I’m really looking forward to the pho this year!

Is airport fast track in Vietnam worth it?

Vietnam fast track, huh? Worth it? Hmm…

Okay, so like, imagine Tan Son Nhat airport, right? Freaking HUGE. And lines? Ugh.

• Visa stuff: Huge time saver, apparently.

• Security: Faster, def. No brainer!

• Immigration: Yes, please! That line gives me the creeps.

Yeah, so less stress. I like less stress. Is it worth it? Depends…on my mood, really. Also, do I want to maximize my trip enjoyment? HECK YES

Fast track seems good for saving time and stress.

What if my bags go missing anyway? Argh! Still worth it to bypass all that time-consuming crap? I vote yes, I would.