Flights from India to Vietnam: Guide on visa for Indian citizens

The rich culture of Vietnam and the beautiful natural landscapes, not to mention the economic improvement of India relations, have made the country in Southeast Asia a good favourite to be visited by Indian tourists. Wonders like the limestone mountains and the cliffs of the Ha Long Bay, the colourful lanes of the most coloured lanterns in Hoi An, the effervescence of the ambiance of Ho Chi Minh city are outstanding examples of presenting Vietnam as an extraordinary combination of ancient culture, adventurous experiences, and heartfelt hospitality.

This dominance has further been supported by the major increase in direct air transport connection between India and Vietnam over the past few years making international travels convenient and affordable. Direct flights, competitive rates and simplification of customs has increased the area of tourism, education, trade and exchange of culture between the two nations. The Vietnam National Administration of Tourism states that Indian tourist arrivals have almost doubled in recent years, showing how the country’s appeal is rising and air routes between India and Vietnam are being developed.

India Passport and an airplane on world map

Flights from India to Vietnam: A quick overview

There are many readily available and well-priced flights between India and Vietnam, some with several direct and indirect flights. There are special airways like VietJet Air and IndiGo that facilitate direct flights and allow people to travel to Vietnam with more convenience.

Popular routes:

• Delhi → Hanoi
• Mumbai → Ho Chi Minh City
• Kolkata → Da Nang (via connecting flights through Bangkok or Kuala Lumpur)
• Chennai → Nha Trang (typically with 1–2 layovers, e.g., via Ho Chi Minh City or Bangkok)

In future, itineraries with no, one or two transit points will be available to airline passengers; each of these will depend upon price, comfort and urgency factors.

Note: Currently, routes like Kolkata → Da Nang or Chennai → Nha Trang usually involve at least one layover.

Departure airports in India with direct or connecting flights to Vietnam

A few airports in India offer a direct flight or a connecting flight to Vietnam, such as Delhi, Mumbai, Chennai, Hyderabad, Kolkata, and Bangalore and also Kochi and Pune. The route predominant is that it departs India and has an alternate stop destined at Bangkok, Kuala Lumpur, or Singapore.

Key Indian airports:

Immigration area at the Indira Gandhi International Airport in New Delhi, India

Vietnam airports welcoming Indian arrivals

On the Vietnamese side, international airports have seen an uptick in Indian arrivals, making immigration and customs smoother than ever.

Major airports in Vietnam:

• Noi Bai International Airport (HAN) – Serves northern Vietnam and Hanoi
• Tan Son Nhat International Airport (SGN) – Serves southern Vietnam and Ho Chi Minh City
• Da Nang International Airport (DAD) – Ideal for central Vietnam tourism
• Cam Ranh International Airport (CXR) – Near the beach resort city of Nha Trang

Each of these airports supports e-visa processing and is equipped with English-speaking staff, making arrival procedures comfortable for Indian citizens.

Airlines offering flights from India to Vietnam

Airlines servicing this international route include both low-cost and full-service carriers, catering to different traveler profiles.

Indigo Airbus A320

Direct vs connecting flights: Pros and cons for Indian flyers

When flying from India to Vietnam, one major decision is whether to book a direct or connecting flight.

Direct flights

• Pros: Less travel time, fewer layover hassles
• Cons: Slightly higher fares during peak seasons

Connecting flights

• Pros: Cheaper, more options
• Cons: Higher risk of delays or missed connections

Visa requirements of those countries making stops on the way is also something a traveler has to consider when booking such trips.

Flight time, distance and airfare: What to expect

Here’s a general overview of time, distance and costs:

Note: Prices fluctuate during festivals and school holidays.

Vietnam Airlines plane from India Airport

Visa requirements for Indian citizens flying to Vietnam

Indian citizens need a visa to enter Vietnam. Fortunately, options are flexible:

E-Visa (Recommended)

• Valid for 30 days, single entry
• Multiple-entry e-Visas (valid up to 90 days)
• Apply at Vietnam E-Visa Portal

Visa on Arrival (VOA)

• Requires pre-approval
• Stamp received at Vietnamese airport

Notes: Visa on arrival is available but less recommended for Indian travelers. E-Visa is a safer and faster option.

Embassy Visa

• For longer stays or multiple entries

Essential documents:

• Passport (valid 6 months)
• Photo
• Return flight ticket
• Hotel reservation

How to book the cheapest flights from India to Vietnam

Want to grab the best deal? Try these travel hacks:

• Book 6–8 weeks in advance
• Use fare comparison sites: Skyscanner, Kayak, Google Flights
• Avoid weekends for departure
• Use airline promo codes and credit card points

Baggage allowance, customs and airline policies for Indian passengers

Each airline has different rules, so always check in advance:

Customs advice:

• Avoid carrying more than 1.5 liters of alcohol or 200 cigarettes, as per Vietnamese customs regulations.
• Declare items worth over $5,000 USD
• No drugs or banned substances

Note: If carrying more than USD 5,000 (or equivalent) in cash into or out of Vietnam, travelers must declare it to customs.

Tan Son Nhat Airport with flight from India to Ho Chi Minh City

Travel insurance and COVID-19 requirements for Indian travelers to Vietnam

COVID-19 is no longer a travel deterrent, but guidelines remain:

• Health insurance covering COVID-19 is mandatory
• PCR testing may be requested depending on route
• Health declarations via mobile apps are no longer required as per Vietnam’s updated 2023 travel policies.

Reputable insurers: ICICI Lombard, Tata AIG, Religare Travel

Vietnam has lifted the requirement for health declarations via mobile apps for incoming travelers.

Common pitfalls to avoid while flying to Vietnam

Avoid these costly mistakes:

• Booking flights before getting visa approval
• Confusing arrival city with e-visa entry point
• Missing luggage restrictions for low-cost carriers
• Ignoring time zone difference (Vietnam is 1.5 hours ahead of IST)

FAQs: Flights from India to Vietnam

1. Do I need a visa for Vietnam from India?

Yes, all Indian citizens must have a visa before entering Vietnam.

2. Are there direct flights from India to Vietnam?

Yes, from Delhi, Mumbai and Chennai.

3. Which is the cheapest month to fly to Vietnam?

Usually between July and September, outside peak seasons.

4. Can I get a Vietnam visa on arrival?

Yes, but only with a pre-approval letter.

5. Is travel insurance required for Vietnam?

Yes, travel insurance (including COVID-19 coverage) is strongly recommended and may be required for certain visa types, such as the e-Visa.

6. What’s the flight time from India to Vietnam?

Typically 5 to 7 hours, depending on route.

Conclusion: A journey from India to Vietnam

The openness of Vietnam to India has never been so high. Many airline companies, favourable visa regulations, and affordable prices all encourage the Indian tourists to visit the country. However, it is important to follow the legal formalities strictly, document properly and make bookings on time.