Being stopped at the airport due to outstanding tax debts is no longer a rare situation. To avoid this risk, travelers should proactively check their tax obligations before departing overseas.
Why Should You Check Tax Debts Before Departure?
According to tax regulations, individuals who have not fulfilled their tax obligations may be subject to an exit suspension.
- Forgetting to finalize personal income tax
- Being listed as a company representative without closing the tax code
- Unnoticed tax liabilities due to missed notifications
Note: It is recommended to check at least 7 days to 1 month before your trip.
Who Is Most Likely to Be Affected?
1. Individual business owners / household businesses
- Tax debt from VND 50 million or more
- Overdue for more than 120 days
2. Legal representatives of companies
- Company tax debt from VND 500 million or more
- Overdue for more than 120 days
3. Individuals listed under inactive companies
- Business not officially dissolved
- Outstanding tax obligations remain
4. Individuals emigrating or foreigners leaving Vietnam
- Must complete all tax obligations before departure
3 Quick and Accurate Ways to Check Tax Debts
1. Check via the General Department of Taxation Website
This method helps determine whether you are subject to exit enforcement measures.
- Visit: https://gdt.gov.vn
- Select: Public Services → Public Disclosure of Tax Enforcement
- Choose: Taxpayers with Exit Notifications
- Enter your tax code or ID number
- Click “Search”
Results:
- No information → You are safe
- Information found → Immediate action required
2. Check Personal Tax Code Information
This helps detect whether your identity has been used to register a business.
- Visit: https://masothue.com
- Enter your ID number
- No data → No issue
- Business found:
- Correct → Check tax obligations
- Incorrect → Report to authorities
3. Check via eTax Mobile App
This is the fastest and most convenient method.
- Log in to the eTax Mobile app
- Select: Tax Obligation Lookup
- Choose: Tax Obligation Information
- Click “Search”
You will see:
- Outstanding tax amounts
- Late payment penalties (if any)
What Should You Do After Checking?
- Pay immediately if there are outstanding debts
- Keep payment receipts
- Recheck after a few days to confirm updates
Travel Tips
- Check at least 7 days in advance
- For long or expensive trips → check 1 month earlier
- Pay extra attention if you have changed jobs, run a business, or been listed under a company
Spending just a few minutes checking your tax status can help you avoid unexpected travel disruptions and ensure a smooth journey abroad.
