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Vietnam Airport Etiquette 2025: Essential Do’s and Don’ts at Tan Son Nhat (SGN)

Discover essential Vietnamese etiquette tips for Tan Son Nhat Airport (SGN) in 2025. Learn airport customs, cultural do's and don'ts, and insider advice from a frequent traveler to navigate Vietnam's busiest airport like a local.

Introduction: My First Cultural Faux Pas at SGN

I’ll never forget my first time landing at Tan Son Nhat International Airport (SGN) in Ho Chi Minh City. After 20+ hours of flying, I confidently approached immigration, handed over my passport with one hand, and watched the officer’s expression shift from neutral to slightly disapproving. That subtle change spoke volumes. Only later did I learn that in Vietnamese culture, using both hands to give and receive items shows respect—especially to officials. That small mistake set the tone for what became a series of cultural learning moments throughout my stay.

Having visited Vietnam numerous times since that awkward first encounter (most recently in late 2024), I’ve learned that understanding Vietnamese etiquette—particularly at the country’s busiest gateway—can make the difference between a smooth entry and unnecessary stress. In this guide, I’ll share everything I’ve learned about navigating the cultural nuances of Tan Son Nhat Airport in 2025, including recent changes, money-saving tips, and the unspoken rules that even seasoned travelers often miss.

Understanding the Layout of Tan Son Nhat Airport in 2025

Before diving into etiquette specifics, let’s get oriented. SGN has undergone significant renovations since the pandemic, with the most recent terminal expansions completed in early 2024. The airport now handles over 35 million passengers annually, making it more crucial than ever to understand its layout.

Terminal Overview

  • Terminal 1 (Domestic): Handles VietJet, Bamboo Airways, and other domestic carriers
  • Terminal 2 (International): Serves all international flights
  • New Terminal 3: Partially operational in 2025, primarily for overflow international traffic

Here’s a map to help you visualize the layout:

Pre-Arrival Etiquette: Preparation is Key

The Vietnamese appreciate preparedness and organization. Nothing demonstrates disrespect faster than being the person holding up a line because you didn’t do your homework.

Documentation Do’s and Don’ts

Do Don’t
Have your e-visa printed and ready Assume your digital copy is sufficient (airport Wi-Fi can be unreliable)
Fill out arrival cards completely before reaching the counter Leave sections blank or incomplete
Have your accommodation address written in Vietnamese Only have your hotel name without the full address
Bring a pen (preferably blue ink) Expect immigration to provide writing implements

Pro Tip: The 2025 e-visa system now includes a QR code. Keep a screenshot of this code separate from your other documents as a backup. I once had my printed documents get soaked in a sudden HCMC downpour while transferring between flights, and this saved me significant hassle.

Immigration and Customs: The Critical First Impression

Vietnamese culture places immense value on respect and hierarchical relationships. Nowhere is this more evident than in your interactions with immigration and customs officials.

Respectful Behavior at Immigration

  1. Use both hands when presenting documents
  2. Maintain a neutral expression – smiling too broadly can be misinterpreted
  3. Speak softly – loud voices are considered inappropriate
  4. Remove hats and sunglasses before approaching the counter
  5. Dress appropriately – avoid revealing clothing or political slogans

I learned about the importance of appropriate dress the hard way. On one trip during a layover in Singapore, I changed into shorts and a tank top for comfort. The immigration officer at SGN noticeably cooled toward me, processing my documents with considerably less warmth than my more formally dressed travel companion.

Vietnamese Phrases to Know

Using even basic Vietnamese phrases shows respect for the local culture. Here are three essential expressions:

  • “Xin chào” (sin chow) – Hello
  • “Cảm ơn” (cam uhn) – Thank you
  • “Xin lỗi” (sin loy) – Excuse me/I’m sorry

Customs Declarations

Be honest and thorough with customs declarations. The 2025 regulations allow:

  • Up to 200 cigarettes
  • Up to 1.5 liters of spirits
  • Personal electronics (within reason)
  • Currency under 5,000 USD (or equivalent) without declaration

Insider Tip: If bringing gifts, keep them unwrapped. Customs may ask to inspect packages, and having to unwrap them creates delays and awkwardness. In 2024, I brought specialty chocolates for Vietnamese colleagues, and having them easily accessible for inspection made the process much smoother.

Baggage Claim and Exit: Navigating the Chaos

The baggage claim area at SGN can be overwhelming, especially during peak hours. This is where respecting personal space becomes challenging but even more important.

Baggage Claim Etiquette

Do’s:

  • Stay a respectful distance from the carousel until you spot your bag
  • Help elderly passengers or those with children if you see them struggling
  • Say “Xin lỗi” (excuse me) when navigating through crowds
  • Keep your baggage claim ticket accessible for verification

Don’ts:

  • Push or crowd the carousel
  • Place your luggage cart in ways that block other passengers
  • Touch or move others’ belongings without permission
  • Leave your cart unattended

During Tet (Vietnamese New Year) in early 2024, I witnessed the baggage claim area become particularly chaotic. The most respected travelers were those who maintained calm and courtesy despite the crowding and delays.

Money Matters: Currency Exchange and Tipping

Vietnamese culture around money might differ from what you’re used to. Getting this right sets the tone for financial interactions throughout your trip.

Currency Exchange Wisdom

As of January 2025, the exchange rate is approximately 25,000 VND to 1 USD, though this fluctuates. Here’s how to handle money exchanges efficiently:

Option Pros Cons Current Rates (2025)
Airport Exchange Counters Convenient, open 24/7 Poorest rates (15-20% markup) ~23,000 VND/USD
ATMs at Airport Better rates than counters Withdrawal limits, fees ~24,000 VND/USD + fees
City Center Exchange Best rates Requires travel from airport ~24,800 VND/USD
Pre-order Currency Convenient, skip airport lines Must plan ahead Varies by service

Money-Saving Insider Tips

  1. Secret ATM Location: There’s a less-used ATM on Level 2 near Gate 10 in Terminal 2 that often has shorter lines and sometimes lower fees than the main concourse ATMs.
  2. Exchange Only Minimal Amounts: I change just enough at the airport for transportation (~500,000 VND) then use Jewelry shops along Nguyen Hue Street in District 1 for better rates once in the city.
  3. Use Coins App: The local Coins payment app now works with international cards and offers better rates than physical exchanges. I saved nearly 80,000 VND (~$3 USD) on a recent 1 million VND transaction compared to airport rates.

My Expensive Mistake: During my second visit, I exchanged $300 USD at the airport, only to discover rates were nearly 10% better in the city. That 750,000 VND difference would have covered two nights in a decent hotel!

Tipping Culture at SGN

Vietnam isn’t traditionally a tipping culture, but practices at the airport vary:

  • Baggage porters: 20,000-50,000 VND per cart is appreciated
  • Taxi drivers: Rounding up the fare is sufficient
  • Restaurant staff: 5-10% for exceptional service only
  • Bathroom attendants: 5,000 VND is customary

Presenting tips respectfully matters. Offer them with both hands, and do so discreetly rather than with flourish.

Transportation Etiquette: Getting from SGN to the City

The 7-10km journey from Tan Son Nhat to central Ho Chi Minh City offers several transportation options, each with its own etiquette considerations.

Comparing Transportation Options

Method Approx. Cost (2025) Time Etiquette Notes
Grab/Be App 150,000-200,000 VND 30-45 min Meeting point at designated area only; drivers appreciate if you message them your exact door number
Mai Linh Taxi 180,000-220,000 VND 30-45 min Official queue required; no cutting in line
Airport Bus #109 20,000 VND 40-60 min Give up seats to elderly/pregnant passengers
Private Transfer 250,000-400,000 VND 30-40 min Driver will hold name sign; bow slightly when greeting

Avoiding Transportation Scams

Unfortunately, transportation scams targeting foreigners remain common in 2025. Here are the ones I’ve encountered and how to avoid them:

  • “Broken meter” taxis: Insist on using the meter or agree on a price beforehand
  • Circuitous routes: Follow your GPS on your phone
  • Currency confusion: Clarify whether quoted prices are in thousands (e.g., 200 = 200,000 VND)
  • Luggage fees: Confirm that quoted prices include luggage before departing

Sustainable Money-Saver: The new Metro Line 1, partially operational in 2025, now connects the area near the airport to central districts. At 15,000 VND, it’s both eco-friendly and budget-conscious. You’ll need to take a short shuttle (free with metro ticket) from the terminal to Tân Sơn Nhất Station. This option saved me nearly 170,000 VND compared to a taxi on my last trip!

Technology and Communication at SGN

The digital landscape at Tan Son Nhat has improved dramatically in recent years, but understanding the proper use of technology is important.

Wi-Fi and Connectivity

Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the airport, but there are caveats:

  • Network name: TSN-Airport-Free-Wifi
  • Connection requires registration with a phone number
  • Speed varies dramatically by terminal area
  • 30-minute time limits apply (though you can reconnect)

Phone and Photography Etiquette

Vietnamese norms around photography and phone use differ from Western countries:

Do’s:

  • Keep your voice down when on calls
  • Ask permission before photographing airport staff
  • Turn off flash photography near security areas
  • Use headphones for video calls or media

Don’ts:

  • Take photos in immigration or customs areas (strictly prohibited)
  • Film security procedures or checkpoints
  • Use phones at service counters while being assisted
  • Make video calls in crowded areas

I learned this lesson when my phone was temporarily confiscated after I absentmindedly took a photo of the immigration hall to send to my family. The officer was polite but firm – I had to delete the photo and received a stern warning.

Dining and Shopping: Respecting Food and Commerce Customs

SGN has expanded its food and retail options significantly in 2024-2025, but navigating the cultural aspects of consumption requires awareness.

Dining Etiquette

Vietnamese food culture is rich with tradition, and even airport eateries observe certain customs:

  • Wait to be seated rather than selecting your own table
  • Use both hands when receiving your food or bill
  • Try not to leave food on your plate (considered wasteful)
  • Use provided wet tissues to clean hands before eating
  • If dining with Vietnamese companions, the eldest or most senior person should begin eating first

Insider Money-Saver: The best-value meal at SGN isn’t at the food court! Head to Terminal 2, Level 3, where there’s a small local cafeteria frequented by airport staff. A bowl of phở here costs 65,000 VND compared to 120,000+ VND at tourist-oriented restaurants. Look for the sign saying “Cơm Văn Phòng” (Office Rice).

Bargaining at Airport Shops

Unlike markets in the city, most airport shops have fixed prices. However, there are exceptions:

  • Souvenir shops sometimes have flexibility on multiple purchases
  • Duty-free rarely allows negotiation
  • Food prices are fixed
  • Service providers (massage, luggage wrapping) may offer discounts during off-peak hours

When I asked for a discount at the airport pharmacy on some last-minute purchases, the staff seemed uncomfortable. I quickly realized this wasn’t appropriate in this setting and apologized. Context matters tremendously in Vietnam.

Handling Delays and Problems: Grace Under Pressure

How you respond to challenges at SGN says volumes about your character in Vietnamese culture. Maintaining composure is essential.

Dealing with Flight Delays

SGN experiences frequent weather and operational delays, especially during monsoon season (May-October). The Vietnamese approach to delays values patience and acceptance:

  1. Avoid loud complaints or visible frustration
  2. Speak softly and respectfully when seeking information
  3. Use phrases like “Tôi hiểu” (I understand) to show empathy
  4. Form orderly lines at information counters
  5. Offer assistance to elderly or families with children during delays

Lost Items and Assistance

If you lose something or need special assistance:

  • Lost & Found: Terminal 2, Level 1 (near Door 5)
  • Medical Assistance: Both terminals have first aid stations
  • Tourist Police: Counter near the main entrance of Terminal 2

When reporting issues, be thorough but concise. Vietnamese communication style values getting directly to the point rather than elaborate explanations.

When I lost my wallet at a terminal restaurant in 2023, I approached the lost and found expecting a bureaucratic nightmare. Instead, by calmly explaining the situation with relevant details (time, location, description), the staff located it within 30 minutes – with everything still inside!

Special Considerations for 2025

Several recent developments and changes affect the etiquette landscape at SGN this year:

New Regulations and Procedures

  • Health Screening: While COVID protocols have relaxed, random screenings still occur for flights from certain regions
  • Digital Entry Cards: The new e-Entry system launched in late 2024 now allows pre-registration, saving time at immigration
  • Luggage Restrictions: New limits on lithium batteries and certain electronics took effect in January 2025
  • Terminal 3 Construction: Ongoing work affects ground transportation and some terminal transfers

Cultural Shifts and Awareness

Vietnamese society continues to evolve, blending traditional values with global influences:

  • Younger staff may be more casual in interactions but still appreciate traditional courtesy
  • English proficiency has improved significantly throughout the airport
  • Environmental awareness has increased, with new recycling stations throughout the terminals
  • LGBTQ+ travelers report increasingly respectful treatment, though public displays of affection remain uncommon regardless of orientation

Sustainability Tip: Bring your own water bottle! The airport installed filtered water refill stations in 2024, allowing you to avoid buying plastic bottles. I’ve saved approximately 180,000 VND on my last three trips through SGN by refilling my own bottle.

Conclusion: Your 5-Step Action Plan for Cultural Success at SGN

Navigating Tan Son Nhat Airport doesn’t have to be intimidating. The smell of Vietnamese coffee wafting through the terminal, the hum of conversations in multiple languages, and even the occasional announcement of a delayed flight are all part of the experience. With the right approach, you’ll not only survive SGN but potentially make meaningful connections and start your Vietnam adventure on the right foot.

Here’s my battle-tested action plan for SGN mastery:

  1. Pre-Trip Preparation
    • Download the official SGN Airport app for real-time updates
    • Pre-print all documentation and store digital backups
    • Learn basic Vietnamese phrases (the three I mentioned earlier)
  2. Arrival Strategy
    • Have accommodation details written in Vietnamese
    • Exchange only minimal currency (500,000 VND) at the airport
    • Use both hands when interacting with officials
  3. Navigation Tactics
    • Use the less crowded restrooms near Gates 10-15
    • Eat at the staff cafeteria for better prices
    • Consider the new Metro connection if heading to central districts
  4. Communication Approach
    • Speak softly and directly
    • Show respect to all staff regardless of position
    • Maintain composure during delays or issues
  5. Departure Checklist
    • Arrive 3 hours early for international flights
    • Use VIP lounges during long delays (often cheaper than airport restaurants for extended waits)
    • Spend remaining dong on specialty coffee or local crafts rather than exchanging back

Remember that etiquette isn’t about rigid rules but about showing respect and consideration. The Vietnamese deeply appreciate foreigners who make an effort to understand their customs, even if you don’t get everything perfect. That first awkward passport handover? It’s now a story I tell with a smile, a reminder that cultural learning is an ongoing journey.

Safe travels, and hẹn gặp lại (see you again) at Tan Son Nhat!

Frequently Asked Questions

Is it acceptable to tip at Tan Son Nhat Airport?

Tipping isn’t traditionally expected in Vietnam, but it’s becoming more common in tourist areas including the airport. Small tips (20,000-50,000 VND) are appreciated by porters and exceptional service staff, but never expected. Present tips discreetly with both hands.

What’s the dress code for arriving at SGN?

While there’s no official dress code, modest attire shows respect. Avoid very revealing clothing, political slogans, or overly casual wear like beachwear. Business casual or smart casual attire is ideal, especially when dealing with immigration officials.

How should I handle a cultural mistake if I realize I’ve made one?

A simple “Xin lỗi” (excuse me/sorry) goes a long way. Vietnamese culture values harmony, so acknowledging the mistake calmly and correcting your behavior is usually sufficient. Avoid elaborate apologies or drawing additional attention to the situation.

Are there specific customs around giving or receiving items?

Yes! Always use both hands when giving or receiving documents, money, business cards, or gifts—especially with officials or elders. This shows respect and is one of the most important customs to observe at the airport.

Is photography allowed inside Tan Son Nhat Airport?

General photography is permitted in public areas of the terminals, but strictly prohibited in security, immigration, and customs zones. Always ask permission before photographing airport staff, and be mindful of including strangers in your photos without consent.

What should I do if I accidentally offend someone?

If you realize you’ve caused offense, a sincere apology and correction of behavior is appreciated. Vietnamese culture generally values harmony over confrontation, so most minor infractions will be forgiven if you show genuine respect afterward.

How early should I arrive at SGN for departure?

For international flights, arrive 3 hours before departure. For domestic flights, 2 hours is sufficient. During major holidays like Tet (Vietnamese New Year), add an extra hour as the airport becomes extremely crowded.

Is it okay to use ride-sharing apps like Grab at the airport?

Yes, ride-sharing apps are now fully permitted and have designated pickup areas at both terminals. Follow the app’s instructions for the exact meeting point—typically Door 5 at international arrivals. These services are often 20-30% cheaper than traditional airport taxis.

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