Visa runs are not prohibited by Vietnamese law: foreigners may leave and re-enter with valid documents. However, each entry is decided by immigration officers at the gate; people who do many back-to-back visa runs, show signs of working without a permit, or have overstayed before may be questioned closely or refused entry. A visa run should only be a short-term solution.
Legal basis
The Law on Entry, Exit, Transit and Residence of Foreigners in Vietnam (amended 2019 and 2023) sets no limit on the number of entries. You need a valid passport, a visa or equivalent document (unless exempt), and must not be on the entry-ban list. Current law also no longer requires a 30-day gap between two entries under unilateral visa exemption.
When are you likely to be questioned or refused?
- Many consecutive visa runs, living in Vietnam almost all year on tourist e-visas or exemptions.
- Signs of working without a work permit.
- A previous overstay, fine or entry ban.
- A passport close to expiry or without blank pages.
- An e-visa with the wrong port or wrong passport details.
How to reduce the risk
- Carry tickets, bookings or a clear travel plan.
- State your real purpose of entry; do not say you are working on a tourist visa.
- Never overstay before exiting.
- Check that your e-visa is approved and correct (check your e-visa).
Long-term alternatives
| Situation | Better option |
|---|---|
| Working for a Vietnamese company | Work permit + LD visa or residence card |
| Spouse or child of a Vietnamese citizen | Family residence card or 5-year exemption certificate |
| Investor | DT residence card |
| Long holiday | 90-day multiple-entry e-visa; compare with an extension |
FAQ
How many visa runs are allowed?
The law sets no number, but the more consecutive runs, the more likely questions become.
What happens if I am refused entry?
You return to the country you came from. Prepare complete documents and get advice before trying again.
Can I work on a tourist e-visa?
No. Working requires a work permit or exemption confirmation and the correct visa type.
Need help?
Info Travel handles fast e-visas, visa extensions, residence cards and free visa run advice at Zalo/WhatsApp: +84327828822 / Hotline: +84903782118.
