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As in-country eVisa extensions are not permitted in 2026, foreign nationals must exit and re-enter Vietnam to renew their stay. This guide outlines the legal procedures.
Overview of Visa Renewal Procedures (Exit and Re-entry)
Under 2026 immigration regulations, Vietnam eVisas (valid for up to 90 days) cannot be extended from within the country. To lawfully prolong a stay, foreign nationals must physically exit Vietnam and re-enter using a new eVisa or a valid visa exemption. This administrative procedure is commonly referred to as a "visa run". It is a permitted method for resetting the duration of stay, provided all immigration requirements are met. For background on eVisa rules, see our Vietnam eVisa explainer.
Approved Land Border Checkpoints for Visa Renewal
Exiting and re-entering via land borders is a standard procedure. There are currently 83 entry ports allowed for eVisa processing, including major land borders. Common checkpoints include:
- Moc Bai Border (Cambodia): Frequently utilized by individuals residing in Ho Chi Minh City. Travelers are subject to Cambodian entry requirements, which may require a Cambodian Visa on Arrival or prior eVisa approval.
- Lao Bao Border (Laos): Accessible from Da Nang, Hue, and Hoi An. Travelers must verify Laos entry requirements prior to departure.
- Cau Treo Border (Laos): A recognized checkpoint for individuals departing from Hanoi or North Central Vietnam.
Air Travel for Visa Renewal
Departing Vietnam by air and returning via an international airport is another permitted method. Standard routes include:
- Bangkok (Thailand): Accessible via direct flights from Hanoi, Da Nang, and Ho Chi Minh City.
- Kuala Lumpur (Malaysia) & Singapore: Recognized transit hubs with frequent connections to Vietnam's international airports.
Re-entering via international airports typically involves standardized processing at automated or primary immigration counters. All 13 international airports in Vietnam are approved ports for eVisa entry.
Step-by-Step Procedure for Exit and Re-entry
To ensure compliance with immigration regulations, travelers must adhere to the following sequence:
- Step 1: Application. Apply for a new eVisa via the official National Web Portal on Immigration before departing Vietnam. Ensure the application reflects the correct entry port from the list of 83 accepted entry ports. The standard eVisa fee is $25 for a single-entry and $50 for a multiple-entry visa.
- Step 2: Approval Verification. Do not exit Vietnam until the new eVisa has been formally issued and all details have been verified for accuracy.
- Step 3: Departure. Proceed to the selected border checkpoint or airport and obtain an exit stamp from Vietnam Immigration.
- Step 4: Third-Country Entry. Comply with the entry and exit requirements of the neighboring country.
- Step 5: Re-entry. Present a printed copy of the newly issued Vietnam eVisa along with a valid passport (minimum 6 months validity) at the designated entry port to re-enter Vietnam.
Compliance and Common Errors
Failure to follow correct procedures may result in denied entry or administrative delays:
- Premature Departure: Exiting before the new eVisa is approved will leave the traveler stranded outside Vietnam.
- Failure to Provide Printed Documentation: Immigration officers at land borders may require a physical paper copy of the eVisa.
- Incorrect Port of Entry: The traveler must re-enter through the exact port specified on the eVisa. An eVisa issued for Tan Son Nhat Airport cannot be used at the Moc Bai land border. Refer to our guide on common eVisa mistakes.
- Non-compliance with Neighboring Country Laws: Travelers must meet all entry requirements of the destination country, including visa requirements and passport validity.
Travelers are strictly required to use the official National Web Portal on Immigration for eVisa applications. Verify the designated entry port on the approved eVisa document prior to booking return travel.