Importing Vapes and IQOS to Vietnam in Vietnam: real experience from chats
Short answer
The importation of electronic cigarettes, vapes, and IQOS devices into Vietnam is officially prohibited, often resulting in baggage searches, confiscation, and fines of up to 5,000,000 VND. Airport customs officers frequently target these items, so it is advisable to avoid bringing them into the country.
From real experience
The importation of electronic cigarettes and disposable vapes into Vietnam is officially prohibited, although they are widely sold locally.
Travelers may face fines (around $100 USD) if caught with these items during customs inspection. While some individuals have reported confiscation of devices like IQOS or fines for vape sticks, lenient enforcement has also been observed, sometimes influenced by nationality. It is advisable to avoid bringing them to prevent potential penalties.
✓ 5 reports from chats
Importing IQOS devices and heat sticks into Vietnam is strictly prohibited.
Customs often search baggage for these items. Confiscation is common, and fines are approximately 100 USD. Travelers attempting to bypass this frequently experience harassment during luggage screening and inspection.
✓ 2 reports from chats
Importing electronic cigarettes and vapes into Vietnam is officially prohibited.
While many travelers pass through carry-on without issues, airport customs (especially at CXR/Cam Ranh) conduct random baggage checks specifically targeting e-cigarettes, which can lead to confiscation or fines up to $200.
✓ 2 reports from chats
When traveling to Vietnam, you can generally bring a laptop, though it may be subject to inspection.
For cigarettes, the allowed quantity is typically one carton (200 sticks). Electronic cigarettes may face restrictions or be prohibited. If you wish to purchase cigarettes locally, be aware that the quality of Vietnamese-produced cigarettes may differ from what you are accustomed to. Exchange rates at Cam Ranh Airport are usually less favorable than those found in local exchange offices or jewelry stores within the city.
✓ 1 report from chats
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.
✓ 1 report from chats
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.
✓ 1 report from chats
Clarify the regulations regarding the import of electronic cigarettes, such as IQOS, into Vietnam.
Advise on the best way to carry them (e.g., in hand luggage) and any potential restrictions or screening procedures at airports like Cam Ranh.
✓ 1 report from chats
Inform that customs in Vietnam are strict regarding the import of vapes.
Advise checking official regulations before attempting to bring them into the country.
✓ 1 report from chats
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.