Vietnam E-visa: Is it possible to apply while inside Vietnam?

Are you already enjoying the incredible sights and sounds of Vietnam on a visa exemption and now thinking about staying longer or popping out for a quick trip and coming back?

As we understand that navigating visa rules can sometimes be confusing, we're here to break down the most frequently asked questions about applying for the new 90-day Vietnam e-visa.

Can You Get a Vietnam E-Visa While You're Still in the Country?

This is a common question, and the answer is a clear no, it's not possible. The official Vietnamese e-visa system strictly requires all applications to be submitted from outside Vietnamese territory.

In other words, you must be physically outside Vietnam to submit an online e-visa application, even if you plan to return immediately afterwards.

Recommended Solution for a Smooth and Legal Re-entry with an E-visa:

If you're looking to re-enter Vietnam legally with a fresh e-visa, here’s the recommended approach:

- Plan your exit: Make sure to leave Vietnam before your current visa exemption period expires (ideally, at least one day before).

- Head to a neighboring country: Popular choices include Cambodia, Laos, or Thailand for a short "visa run."

- Apply from abroad: Once you're outside Vietnam, connect to the official e-visa application portal: https://evisa.xuatnhapcanh.gov.vn/

- Complete your application: Request your 90-day e-visa, choosing between single or multiple entries based on your travel plans.

Await approval, then return: Once your e-visa is approved (this usually takes 3 to 5 working days), you're all set to return to Vietnam by land, air, or sea.

>> Read more: Visa Run Vietnam: Complete Guide to Extending Your Stay

When is the Best Time to Apply for Your E-visa?

Since you can not submit your e-visa applicationwhile you are within Vietnam's border, even when the application is made for a future entry from outside the country, the best time to apply for a new Vietnam e-visa is after you have exited the country.

You can apply for the new e-visa as soon as you would like. The standard processing time for an e-visa is three to five business days; however, it may be extended during public holidays or in cases where there are issues with your application. Hence, it's commonly recommended to apply at least 2-3 weeks prior to your intended re-entry date to ensure you have ample time to receive your visa and avoid any last-minute travel stress.

Key Features of the 90-Day E-visa (2024-2025 Version)

To make it easier to understand, we created this board with one column showing your situation and another with what you need to do.

Where Can You Enter Vietnam with an E-visa?

The Vietnam e-visa is widely accepted at numerous border checkpoints:

By Air: Hanoi (Noi Bai International Airport), Ho Chi Minh City (Tan Son Nhat International Airport), Da Nang International Airport, etc.

By Land: Moc Bai (from Bavet in Cambodia), Lao Bao, Tinh Bien, Ha Tien, etc.

By Sea: Halong, Hai Phong, Nha Trang, etc.

For travelers returning from Cambodia, the most common border crossings include:

- Moc Bai - Bavet

- Ha Tien - Prek Chak

- Tinh Bien - Phnom Den

What If You Overstay Your Visit in Vietnam?

It's incredibly important to always respect your visa's validity period! Overstaying your authorized period of stay will lead to some significant and unwelcome consequences, including

• Fines: Be prepared for daily fines, typically around 25 USD for each day of overstay.
   
• Departure Difficulties: You might face considerable problems and delays when you attempt to leave the country.
   
• Potential Re-entry Ban: In more serious situations, you could even face a temporary prohibition from re-entering Vietnam in the future.

Never stay beyond your authorized period of stay without a valid visa!

Related articles: 

>> Vietnam e-visa according to the law from August 15, 2023

>> Everything you need to know about a Vietnam Visa