Is Vietnam Airport Fast Track Worth It? Our Guide to Skipping Lines
Living in Vietnam since 2023, we've flown in and out dozens of times. Here's our honest guide on whether fast track airport security is needed, airport by airport.

Hey friends 👋, we're Liam & Sarah from Two Peas Abroad!
Living in Vietnam since 2023, we've flown in and out dozens of times through its major airports. A ton of our viewers ask if fast track security is needed – especially with tourism booming and lines getting longer. We've used it ourselves on busy trips, so here's our real take on whether it's worth it, airport by airport.
What is Fast Track Airport Security in Vietnam?
Fast track (also called VIP or priority service) is a paid add-on that skips the standard immigration and customs queues at Vietnam's international airports. It's available for arrivals and departures, ideal for dodging crowds from peak flights.
Here's how it works: Book in advance, and upon landing (or before departing), someone will wait for you with your name on a sign right before you hit the main customs area. They'll escort you to a dedicated fast priority lane, handling any paperwork if needed, and guarantee you'll clear everything in 20-30 minutes. Bonus: They'll even guide you straight to baggage claim and out to a taxi or your ride. Super smooth, no stress, and you avoid wasting hours in queues so your holiday starts right away. Reliable every time.
Now, let's break it down by airport. We've focused on the big ones for international travelers: Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, Phu Quoc, and Da Nang.
Hanoi (Noi Bai International - HAN)
Yes, worth it. This is a smaller airport but gets insanely busy, especially when multiple international flights land around the same time. We've personally waited over 3 hours during peaks like evenings or holidays.
💡 Tip: Essential for families or if you're arriving peak season.
This is the one we always get: 👉 Book Hanoi Fast Track
Ho Chi Minh City (Tan Son Nhat - SGN)
Yes, definitely. As Vietnam's largest airport, it's chronically overcrowded. Plans for a new one have been delayed for years, leading to common 2-3+ hour queues, even with e-visas.
💡 Tip: Perfect for tight connections or starting a southern Vietnam adventure without delays.
This is the one we always get: 👉 Book Ho Chi Minh City Fast Track
Phu Quoc (Phu Quoc International - PQC)
Yes, highly recommend. It's a tiny airport, but the island's 30-day visa-free policy draws tons of flights, causing spikes in lines – especially weekends and holidays.
💡 Tip: Get to your beach resort faster; ideal for short trips.
This is the one we always get: 👉 Book Phu Quoc Fast Track
Da Nang (Da Nang International - DAD)
Generally you don't need fast track. Smaller scale airport with fewer international arrivals means waits are usually under an hour – efficient for central coast visits.
💡 Tip: Queues can get a lot longer during peak season.
This is the one we always get: 👉 Book Phu Quoc Fast Track
🔍 Quick Comparison
Airport | Worth It? | Avg Wait Without |
---|---|---|
Hanoi (HAN) | Yes | 3+ hrs |
Ho Chi Minh City (SGN) | Yes | 2-3+ hrs |
Phu Quoc (PQC) | Yes | 1-2+ hrs spikes |
Da Nang (DAD) | No | Under 1 hr (2+ hr spikes in peak season) |
Final Thoughts
Fast track makes sense in Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, and Phu Quoc to cut stress and maximize your Vietnam time – we've relied on it for smoother expat life. For Da Nang, it's generally overkill unless you're traveling during peak season.
Did we help you?
We’ve been living in Vietnam since 2023 and know all the best spots (and the tourist traps to skip 😏). We help hundreds of travelers every week with real, no-fluff advice. If this guide saved you time or stress, you can say thanks by buying us a coffee!