Entering Vietnam by E-visa at a Land Border: Procedure and Tips

Foreigners can enter Vietnam by e-visa through 27 international road and rail gates, including Moc Bai, Lao Bao, Cau Treo, Huu Nghi, Mong Cai and Lao Cai. On thithucdientu.gov.vn you must choose your intended entry port and should enter through that gate; bring the printed e-visa and the passport used to apply. The e-visa is valid for up to 90 days and costs 25 USD (single) or 50 USD (multiple entry).

Contents

Which land gates accept the e-visa?

Sixteen gates under Resolution 127/NQ-CP (Tay Trang, Mong Cai, Huu Nghi, Lao Cai, Na Meo, Nam Can, Cau Treo, Cha Lo, La Lay, Lao Bao, Bo Y, Moc Bai, Xa Mat, Tinh Bien, Vinh Xuong, Ha Tien) and eleven added by Resolution 389/NQ-CP. See the table of 27 land gates and all 83 e-visa ports.

Steps

Apply on thithucdientu.gov.vn and choose the land gate you will use (e-visa guide).
Wait for approval, usually about 3 working days; check every detail.
Print the e-visa and bring the same passport.
At the gate: show passport and e-visa and receive the entry stamp.
After entry, your accommodation files the temporary residence declaration within 12 hours.

Common mistakes

Choosing an airport but travelling overland.
Wrong passport number or date of birth; a new passport different from the one used to apply.
Planned entry date after the e-visa expiry.
No visa for the neighbouring country when doing a visa run.

Single or multiple entry?

If you plan to go to Cambodia or Laos and come back within 90 days, choose a multiple-entry e-visa (50 USD) so you do not need a new one. A multiple-entry e-visa does not extend beyond its printed expiry date.