Table of Contents
Living in Vietnam long-term without residency? Here is exactly how digital nomads and long-term travelers use the 90-day multiple-entry eVisa.
What is the 90-Day Multiple Entry eVisa?
Since August 2023, Vietnam allows citizens of all countries to apply for an electronic visa (eVisa) valid for up to **90 days with multiple entries**. This was a massive upgrade from the previous 30-day single-entry limit.
- **Cost:** $50 USD government fee (compared to $25 for single entry).
- **Flexibility:** You can leave and re-enter Vietnam as many times as you want within those 90 days without needing a new visa.
The Long-Term Stay Strategy
Because Vietnam does not have a retirement visa or a dedicated digital nomad visa, the 90-day eVisa is the lifeline for long-term visitors.
- **Step 1:** Enter Vietnam on a 90-day multiple-entry eVisa.
- **Step 2 (The Visa Run):** A few days before your 90 days expire, exit Vietnam (usually by bus to Cambodia/Laos, or a cheap flight to Bangkok/Kuala Lumpur).
- **Step 3:** Re-enter Vietnam on a **brand new** 90-day eVisa that you applied for while you were still inside Vietnam during Step 1.
When applying for your next eVisa, do it 10-14 days before your current visa expires. You can apply for a new eVisa while you are still inside Vietnam, but you MUST exit and re-enter to activate it.
Is Doing Back-to-Back Visas Legal?
Technically, there is no written law limiting the number of times you can do a 'visa run'. However, immigration officers have the ultimate discretion.
- Most travelers doing 1 or 2 visa runs face no issues.
- If you are on your 4th consecutive 90-day visa (living in Vietnam for a full year on tourist visas), an officer may pull you aside to question your true intent.
- If they suspect you are working illegally for a local Vietnamese business, you will be denied entry.