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Should you get a single-entry or multiple-entry Vietnam eVisa? Here's a clear breakdown to help you decide based on your itinerary.
Quick Answer
If you're staying in Vietnam for the entire trip without leaving the country, a single-entry eVisa ($25) is all you need. If you plan to visit neighboring countries (Cambodia, Laos, Thailand) and return to Vietnam, get the multiple-entry eVisa ($50).
Side-by-Side Comparison
Here's how the two options compare:
| Feature | Single Entry ($25) | Multiple Entry ($50) |
|---|---|---|
| Cost | $25 USD | $50 USD |
| Validity | 90 days | 90 days |
| Entries allowed | One entry only | Unlimited entries |
| What happens if you leave Vietnam? | Visa becomes invalid | You can re-enter freely |
| Best for | One continuous stay | Multi-country itineraries |
| Processing time | 3-5 working days | 3-5 working days |
When to Choose Single Entry
The single-entry eVisa is perfect if your trip follows a straightforward plan:
- You're flying into Vietnam and flying out at the end of your trip
- You're visiting multiple cities within Vietnam only (Hanoi → Da Nang → HCMC)
- Your trip is 90 days or shorter with no plans to cross any borders
- You want to save $25 on visa fees
When to Choose Multiple Entry
The multiple-entry eVisa is worth the extra $25 if you plan to leave and re-enter Vietnam:
- You're doing a Southeast Asia loop (e.g., Vietnam → Cambodia → Vietnam)
- You want to visit Angkor Wat in Cambodia as a side trip
- You're making a visa run to reset your stay period
- Your business requires traveling in and out of Vietnam during your stay
- You want flexibility in case your plans change
If there's even a small chance you might do a side trip to Cambodia, Laos, or Thailand, spend the extra $25 for the multiple-entry visa. It's cheap insurance against losing your visa.
A Common Trap: The Accidental Exit
Here's a scenario that catches travelers off guard: You have a single-entry eVisa. You take a day cruise from Ha Long Bay that briefly enters Chinese waters, or you take a boat trip that technically crosses into Cambodian territory.
In these cases, you may technically 'exit' Vietnam and your single-entry visa becomes invalid. While this is rare, it's one more reason to consider the multiple-entry option if you're traveling near border areas.