Vietnam Entry and Exit Regulations for People and Vehicles

Entry to and exit from Vietnam is governed by the Law on Foreigners Entry, Exit, Transit and Residence, plus the rules on border gates and cross-border vehicles.

People: what you must carry

• Passport valid at least six months, or a substitute travel document
• A valid entry document: visa, e-visa, exemption stamp or exemption certificate
• Residence card holders enter on the card, no visa needed

Designated gates

E-visa holders may only enter and exit through gates listed for the e-visa system. Approval letters name the specific gate or mission where the visa is collected — entering elsewhere means being turned back.

Vehicles crossing land borders

Cross-border vehicles need their own permits under the bilateral transport agreements, in addition to the driver entry documents. A foreign-registered car cannot simply drive into Vietnam on a tourist visa: the vehicle itself requires authorisation, and a Vietnamese driving licence or an accepted international permit is needed to drive here — see licence exchange.

Restrictions to be aware of

• Entry may be refused for previous serious overstays or breaches
• Exit can be suspended where there are unresolved legal or tax obligations
• Restricted and border areas require a separate permit (forms NA14, NA15)

On arrival

The accommodation must file a temporary residence declaration. Departing foreigners simply present the passport — but see exit procedures if your status has lapsed.