Hanoi is preparing to launch a unified multi-modal transit card system, allowing passengers to use a single smart ticket across various public transport modes.

This marks a major step toward improving commuting efficiency, convenience, and fostering the use of public transportation amid increasing congestion and pollution.

Set to officially launch on September 2, the unified ticket system is considered a key initiative in realizing Hanoi’s vision of a seamless, modern, and accessible public transit network.

In its initial phase, the system will apply to subsidized services such as buses and metro lines. Future expansions are expected to include other modes like public bicycles, taxis, and extend eligibility to organizations and individuals involved in passenger transport services.

Regarding fare policy, the system will implement specific pricing structures for each mode. Currently, bus fares are calculated by duration (daily, weekly, monthly) or per ride. Metro fares follow a similar structure.

The integrated ticket will combine fare options for both buses and metro services, calculated by time usage (daily, weekly, monthly) to support multimodal commuting. Single-ride fares will be distance-based, with a base fare plus per-kilometer charges.

Time-based tickets include daily, weekly, monthly, and long-term passes (2 to 12 months), valid for one passenger and activated from the first use.

With electronic payment, a single-ride bus ticket starts at 3,000 VND (approx. $0.12), plus 450 VND ($0.02) per km. For cash payments, fares are rounded based on the route’s endpoint.

A 12-month single-route bus pass costs 790,000 VND ($31.20) for eligible passengers and 1,580,000 VND ($62.30) for standard passengers.

A 12-month multi-route bus pass is priced at 1,580,000 VND ($62.30) and 3,158,000 VND ($124.50) respectively. For metro rides, the base fare is 8,000 VND ($0.32) plus 850 VND ($0.03) per km via electronic payment.

A 12-month integrated pass (bus and metro) costs 2,820,000 VND ($111.10) for eligible users and 5,640,000 VND ($222.30) for regular users.

Hanoi’s Department of Construction notes that during the interim phase - before the full integration of the automated fare collection system - temporary guidance will be issued to ensure service continuity.

Related agencies will regularly monitor and adjust the system to perfect the unified ticketing model over time.

Hanoi currently operates 154 bus routes, including 132 subsidized, 8 unsubsidized, 12 adjacent routes, and 2 city tours, serving all city wards.

The city also runs two metro lines: Nhon - Hanoi Station (elevated section) and Cat Linh - Ha Dong. However, the two lines currently use separate ticketing systems, requiring passengers to buy different tickets for each line - an inconvenience that has undermined public transport appeal in the capital.

PV