Importing and exporting vape devices

Importing IQOS or Glo devices into Vietnam is illegal and frequently results in customs fines of approximately 100 USD. While travelers attempt to conceal devices in personal belongings, there is no official exemption, and confiscation or fines are common at the airport.

When traveling between Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City, be aware of airport security regulations regarding vapes and e-cigarettes. While some transit points may confiscate such items (e.g., Tashkent airport demanding lighters be discarded), e-cigarettes can often be purchased upon arrival in Vietnam, particularly from night markets. The presence of people using vapes suggests they are accessible within the country.

Importing electronic cigarettes (vapes) into Vietnam carries a risk of seizure and fines up to 5,000,000 VND. These products are widely available for purchase locally.

Vaping devices and e-cigarettes are in a legal gray area in Vietnam. It is advised to keep devices in your pockets rather than luggage during transit. There are no body scanners for arriving passengers, but security gates are present at departure terminals. If flagged, compliance and politeness are the best strategies to avoid confiscation. Replacement heating sticks can be purchased from informal street vendors, but prices are typically inflated, and heavy bargaining is required.

Vaping devices (IQOS, glo) are technically restricted. Passengers report that scanning luggage separates personal items from the body. Carrying devices in pockets often bypasses scanner checks. Local shops in Nha Trang sell heat sticks for approximately 150,000 VND.

Carrying electronic cigarettes (vapes) into Vietnam is officially prohibited, with potential confiscation and fines. However, many travelers report successfully bringing them through in hand luggage without issue. For a risk-free option, purchasing vapes locally in Vietnam, such as from cigarette vendors in Nha Trang, is recommended.

While official regulations on e-cigarettes in Vietnam may seem restrictive, they are available for purchase in various locations, including tourist areas like Mui Ne. It is likely possible to find them through informal channels in other cities as well.

Vapes and IQOS devices are frequently confiscated at Vietnamese airports. Import of these items can lead to customs fines and loss of equipment; travelers are advised against bringing them into the country.

Bringing vapes and e-cigarettes into Vietnam through airports (like Cam Ranh) can lead to unofficial 'fines' or bribe solicitations by customs officers if found in carry-on baggage. Officers may demand up to $100 but are often open to negotiation down to $20. Devices packed deep in checked luggage or carried in pockets are less likely to be inspected. Note that vapes and e-cigarettes are widely and cheaply available for purchase locally.

Inform that customs in Vietnam are strict regarding the import of vapes. Advise checking official regulations before attempting to bring them into the country.

E-cigarettes, vapes, and e-liquids are banned in Vietnam starting from early 2025. Vape shops have ceased normal operations; only disposable vapes are occasionally sold illegally ('under the counter') in street cigarette stalls. Customs officers at airports (specifically Cam Ranh) scan all luggage on arrival to confiscate e-cigarettes and vapes.

Vaping devices should be kept in carry-on luggage or pockets during transit. Security scanners during international transfers are generally focused on larger prohibited items. Carrying them in checked luggage is strictly prohibited by airline safety regulations and will likely lead to fines or confiscation upon detection by X-ray scanners.