Border Crossings in Vietnam

There are two types of border crossings that can be distinguished in Vietnam, i.e., local and international. International crossings are open to foreign visitors that meet entry requirements, including possessing a valid passport and visa. In turn, local crossings are dedicated to locals crossing back and forth using border passes.

This article is focused on international border crossings that you can enter using an electronic visa. Let’s find out more information about the Vietnamese e-Visa and entry ports that recognize the e-Visa system.

Traveling to Vietnam with e-Visa

In 2017, the Vietnamese government introduced an e-Visa system for eligible travelers who wish to travel to Vietnam for tourism, business, or transit-related purposes.

Until recently, the visa was issued as a single-entry travel authorization allowing stays of 30 days and remaining valid for 30 days as well.

However, in June 2023, the country announced that they plan to extend the validity of e-Visa to attract more international visitors. As of August 15, 2023, foreigners can obtain an electronic visa for Vietnam, valid for 90 days. Moreover, the visa can also cover numerous stays, contrary to the previously issued single-entry visas.

The new changes in the Vietnamese visa policy also include extended visa-free stays. Until now, citizens of certain counties could enjoy a 15-day visa-free stay in Vietnam. From mid-August 2023, they can travel to Vietnam without any visa and stay there for up to 45 days. The visa-exempt countries include Belarus, Germany, Spain, Denmark, France, South Korea, Finland, Japan, Norway, Russia, Sweden, the United Kingdom, and Italy.

Vietnamese entry ports accepting e-Visas

Following, there are all ports in Vietnam that at the moment recognize the electronic visa system.

Land borders

Vietnam to Laos border crossing: Tay Trang, Na Meo, Nam Can, Cau Treo, Cha Lo, Lao Bao, La Lay, Bo Y
Vietnam to Cambodia border crossing: Xa Mat, Moc Bai, Song Tien, Tinh Bien, Ha Tien
Vietnam to China border crossing: Huu Nghi, Lao Cai, Mong Cai

International Airports

Cat Bi Int Airport (Hai Phong)
Cam Ranh Int Airport (Khanh Hoa)
Can Tho International Airport
Da Nang International Airport
Noi Bai Int Airport (Ha Noi)
Phu Bai Int Airport
Phu Quoc International Airport
Tân Sơn Nhất Airport (Ho Chi Minh City)

Seaports

Chan May Seaport
Da Nang Seaport
Duong Dong Seaport
Cam Pha Seaport
Hai Phong
Ho Chi Minh City
Hon Gai
Nghi Son Seaport
Nha Trang
Quy Nhon Seaport
Vung Tau Seaport
Vung Ang Seaport

Important: Every e-Visa applicant must know that they need to enter Vietnam through the same entry point they selected in the online application form. Otherwise, they may be refused entry to the country. Please be aware that even if you plan to enter Vietnam via the same type of entry point, your visa may be considered invalid. If your travel plans have changed just before your trip and you have an already approved visa, you should better apply for a new one covering the very entry point you plan to use to enter the country.

FAQ

What are the most popular border crossings in Vietnam?

Travelers most frequently use Lao Cai, Tay Trang, and Dong Dang at Lang Son land border crossing points to enter northern Vietnam. The most frequently selected entry point in the south is Moc Bai.

Is it possible to enter Cambodia from Vietnam by boat?

Yes. A traveler can enter Phnom Penh in Cambodia by traveling by boat from Chau Doc in Vietnam. It is a very popular travel route chosen to travel from southern Vietnam to Cambodia.

Can you travel by train from Vietnam to Cambodia?

Unfortunately, there is no railway connecting Vietnam with Cambodia. A traveler can reach Cambodia from Vietnam either by plane, boat, or bus.

Can you travel by train from Vietnam to Laos?

No. Similarly to Cambodia, Vietnam has no railway connection with Laos. If you plan to enter Laos from Vietnam, you need to use a bus or plane.

Can you travel by train from the Vietnam border crossing to China?

Yes. Travelers can reach China from Vietnam by train from Hanoi to Nanning. The journey takes around 12 hours, and the train goes via Dong Dang in Lang Son.

How to cross the Vietnam border from Cambodia?

A traveler entering Vietnam from Cambodia can use the land border in Moc Bai, located in southern Vietnam..

Can I enter Vietnam without a visa?

In general, you should hold a valid visa when arriving in Vietnam. Nevertheless, whether you need a visa or not depends on your nationality. According to the Vietnamese visa policy, certain countries can enjoy a visa-free stay of up to 45 days. Before traveling to Vietnam, make sure to check what are the entry requirements for your nationality. If you cannot enjoy visa-free entry to Vietnam, do remember to obtain a visa in advance of the planned travel.

What currency is accepted at the Vietnamese border crossing points?

Major border crossing points in Vietnam should accept foreign currencies like USD (dollar) and EUR (Euro). Nevertheless, since the official Vietnamese currency is the Vietnamese Dong (VND), it is highly advised to carry a certain amount of this currency or exchange it at the border.

What are the restrictions on bringing goods when crossing the borders of Vietnam?

Like most other countries, Vietnam has certain regulations on prohibited goods. When entering Vietnam, make sure you do not carry weapons, narcotics, counterfeit goods, explosive and pornographic materials. If you are in possession of some personal goods of high value, you should best carry the receipt or invoice confirming your ownership.

Katarzyna

Katarzyna is a dedicated professional working in the dynamic field of eVisa services. Born with an adventurous spirit, she developed a deep curiosity about different cultures and a desire to explore the world from a young age. With a passion for international travel and a keen interest in streamlining visa processes, she stays up-to-date with visa regulations, guiding travelers through the complex procedures. 🐱‍🏍🛫🗺