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Vietnam eVisa 2025: Extension & Visa Run Guide
⏳ Why Extensions and Visa Runs Matter
Vietnam’s standard eVisa grants only 30 days of stay. But many travelers — retirees, digital nomads, business visitors, or long-term tourists — often want to stay longer. In 2025, two main options exist: visa extension from inside Vietnam or doing a visa run to re-enter with a new eVisa.
Both choices come with benefits and risks. This article explains how they work, what costs to expect, and lessons from real traveler experiences.
For a general overview, see the Vietnam eVisa & Connectivity Pillar Guide.
📝 Extending Vietnam eVisa in 2025
Technically, Vietnam eVisas are not renewable online. Extensions must be processed through immigration offices in Vietnam, often via licensed travel agents. Costs and duration vary.
- ✔️ Duration: Usually 15–30 days
- ✔️ Cost: Ranges US$50–120 depending on service provider
- ✔️ Processing time: 5–10 working days
Traveler Story: In March 2025, an Australian tourist extended her eVisa in Ho Chi Minh City via an agent. The process took 7 working days and cost US$85. She remained in Vietnam legally without leaving the country.
✈️ What Is a Visa Run?
A visa run means leaving Vietnam briefly (usually to Cambodia, Laos, or Thailand) and re-entering with a new eVisa. This is popular among digital nomads and long-term tourists.
- ✔️ Fast way to reset stay period
- ✔️ Cheaper than some extensions (new eVisa costs US$25)
- ❌ Requires border crossing or flight
- ❌ Not guaranteed if entry rules change suddenly
Case Study: A US traveler in July 2025 took a bus from Ho Chi Minh City to Phnom Penh. He applied for a new eVisa while abroad, re-entered Vietnam two days later, and stayed another 30 days.
🔄 Extension vs Visa Run: Which Is Better?
The choice depends on time, budget, and flexibility:
- Extension: Less travel, but higher cost and slower process
- Visa Run: Faster reset, but requires leaving Vietnam and reapplying
Example: A Taiwanese digital nomad compared both. Extension in Hanoi cost US$90 and 8 days. Visa run to Laos cost US$45 bus + US$25 eVisa, total US$70, but took 3 days out of work.
🏢 Where to Apply for Extension
Extensions are handled by local Immigration Offices in major cities:
- Hanoi Immigration Department
- Ho Chi Minh City Immigration Office
- Da Nang Immigration Office
However, most foreigners use agents for smoother processing. Official details are limited, so agents bridge communication gaps.
🚨 Risks of Visa Runs
While visa runs are common, risks include:
- Border changes: sudden restrictions can deny re-entry
- Holiday delays: immigration closes during Tet
- Flight cancellations disrupting return
VNExpress has reported several cases in 2024–2025 where travelers were stranded due to border rule changes.
💻 Digital Nomads & Long-Term Travelers
For digital nomads, visa runs are more cost-effective but interrupt routines. Many prefer alternating between Vietnam, Thailand, and Bali. Reliable internet (via Vietnam eSIM) helps keep work uninterrupted during crossings.
💼 Business Travelers
Business visitors should avoid visa runs and apply for business visas via embassies. Extensions through agents may be possible but can be scrutinized. Carry invitation letters and official documents.
💡 Practical Tips for Extension & Visa Runs
- ✅ Apply for extension 10–14 days before eVisa expiry
- ✅ Keep passport valid 6+ months
- ✅ For visa runs, apply for new eVisa before leaving Vietnam
- ✅ Avoid Tet and national holidays for border crossings
- ✅ Always carry printed eVisa approvals
🌍 Real Traveler Experiences
Indian traveler (Feb 2025): Extension via HCMC agent cost US$95, approved in 9 days.
UK traveler (Apr 2025): Did visa run to Laos. Bus cost US$40, eVisa US$25. Re-entry smooth but tiring journey.
Australian traveler (Aug 2025): Tried last-minute extension in Da Nang. Delayed until after visa expired, forced to pay overstay fine.
Taiwanese traveler (Jun 2025): Opted for visa run to Cambodia. Cheap but wasted 2 days travel time.
🔗 References
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can eVisas be extended online?
A: No. Extensions require immigration offices or agents inside Vietnam.
Q: How long can I extend?
A: Typically 15–30 days, depending on approval and nationality.
Q: Is visa run always accepted?
A: Most of the time, yes. But sudden rule changes may restrict re-entry.
Q: What happens if my visa expires before extension approval?
A: Overstay fines apply (approx. US$25–50). Avoid this by applying early.
Q: Do agents guarantee success?
A: No. Agents assist but final decision rests with Immigration.
🚀 Final Checklist
- ✅ Plan extension or visa run at least 2 weeks before expiry
- ✅ Budget for fees (US$25–120)
- ✅ Avoid holidays for processing
- ✅ Carry printed approvals and passport at all times
- ✅ Use a Vietnam eSIM for connectivity to track approvals
👉 Staying longer in Vietnam? Read our Vietnam eVisa & Connectivity Guide for full entry support and digital connectivity options.