A visa run to Cambodia means crossing into Cambodia over land and re-entering Vietnam, usually on the same day. From Ho Chi Minh City use Moc Bai – Bavet (about 70 km, 7–8 hours round trip); from Phu Quoc use Ha Tien – Prek Chak; from the Mekong Delta use Tinh Bien or Vinh Xuong. Before leaving you must already hold a document to re-enter Vietnam (e-visa, residence card or visa exemption) and carry about 30 USD cash for the Cambodian visa.
Which border gate?
| Gate | Cambodian side | Best for |
|---|---|---|
| Moc Bai | Bavet | Ho Chi Minh City, Binh Duong, Dong Nai; open 6:00–22:00 |
| Ha Tien (Xa Xia) | Prek Chak | Phu Quoc, Ha Tien; near Kep and Kampot |
| Tinh Bien | Phnom Den | Chau Doc, Can Tho |
| Vinh Xuong | Kaam Samnor | River boat Chau Doc – Phnom Penh |
| Xa Mat | Trapeang Phlong | Tay Ninh |
All five gates accept the Vietnam e-visa. See all 27 land border gates.
Cambodian visa
Cambodia issues 30-day tourist visas on arrival to most nationalities for about 30 USD cash; bring 1 photo. The Cambodian e-visa (about 30 USD plus a processing fee) is accepted at Bavet. ASEAN citizens are visa-exempt. Fees can change; bring new, small USD notes.
Documents
- Passport valid for at least 6 months with blank pages.
- A document to re-enter Vietnam: an approved, printed e-visa naming the gate you will return through, a residence card, a 5-year exemption certificate, or a visa-exempt nationality.
- USD cash for the Cambodian visa and 1–2 photos.
- Your accommodation details in Vietnam after you return.
Steps via Moc Bai
- Get your Vietnam e-visa first (usually 3 working days; an urgent service is available).
- Travel from Ho Chi Minh City to Moc Bai (about 2 hours).
- Clear Vietnamese exit immigration.
- Walk or drive to Bavet, get the visa and enter Cambodia.
- Exit Cambodia right away or after a stay.
- Return to Moc Bai and enter Vietnam with your e-visa or under visa exemption.
Costs and time
| Item | Guide |
|---|---|
| Cambodian visa | About 30 USD |
| Vietnam e-visa (government fee) | 25 USD single, 50 USD multiple entry |
| Transport Ho Chi Minh City – Moc Bai – back | Depends on vehicle; buses are cheaper than a private car |
| Total time from Ho Chi Minh City | About 7–8 hours |
Info Travel offers a full Moc Bai visa run service: e-visa, car and help at the border.
Tips
- Do not overstay before leaving: you are fined on exit under Decree 282/2025/ND-CP (0.5–40 million VND).
- Many back-to-back visa runs can lead to questions; see is a visa run legal?.
- People working in Vietnam need a work permit and LD visa, not visa runs.
- If someone can sponsor you, an extension inside Vietnam may be easier.
FAQ
How long does a Cambodia visa run take?
From Ho Chi Minh City via Moc Bai, about 7–8 hours round trip.
Can I get a Vietnam visa at Moc Bai?
There is no visa on arrival for walk-in travellers at land borders. You need an e-visa or a pre-approved entry document.
Do 45-day visa-exempt travellers need an e-visa?
No, if your nationality is exempt. See visa runs under the 45-day exemption.
Need help?
Info Travel handles fast e-visas, visa extensions, residence cards and free visa run advice at Zalo/WhatsApp: +84327828822 / Hotline: +84903782118.
