🌍 Why Multiple Entry Matters

Many travelers to Vietnam combine their trip with regional visits to Cambodia, Laos, or Thailand. In such cases, a multiple-entry visa is essential. While Vietnam’s standard eVisa covers only single-entry, updates in 2023–2025 introduced limited options for multiple entry and clarified rules on changing entry ports.

For the full guide, see the Vietnam eVisa & Connectivity Pillar.

🛂 Single vs Multiple Entry eVisa

According to the official eVisa portal, most eVisas are single-entry valid for 30 days. Multiple-entry eVisas remain restricted and often require embassy or consulate applications. However, pilot programs since 2023 have allowed some multiple-entry issuance for business travelers.

• ✔️ Single-entry: enter once, valid up to 30 days
• ✔️ Multiple-entry (pilot): available via embassy or agents, not always online

Traveler Case: In June 2025, a Singapore-based consultant visiting Hanoi and Phnom Penh needed re-entry. He was told to apply at the embassy in Singapore, as online eVisa was single-entry only.

🚪 Port of Entry Restrictions

When applying online, you must select your intended port of arrival (airport or land border). Immigration expects you to enter at that port. However, in practice, flexibility varies:

• Airports (Hanoi, HCMC, Da Nang): Usually accept arrivals even if a different airport was selected.
• Land borders: Officers often require exact match with your application.

Traveler Story: A US traveler in March 2025 applied with “Hanoi” as entry point but landed in Da Nang. Immigration accepted the eVisa without issue. By contrast, an Indian traveler who applied for Moc Bai land border tried to enter at Lao Bao and was denied entry until reapplying.

📜 Why Entry Port Rules Exist

Vietnam’s system pre-allocates applications to border checkpoints to manage flow. Airports with automated systems are flexible, but land checkpoints still rely on manual verification, hence stricter enforcement. The IATA Travel Centre also highlights this variation in its visa advice.

⚠️ Common Mistakes with Multiple Entry & Ports

1. Applying for single-entry while planning to exit and re-enter
2. Selecting a land border but arriving at a different checkpoint
3. Not printing the eVisa showing port details
4. Booking roundtrip flights via different airports without checking port flexibility

Example: In December 2024, an Australian couple booked arrival in Hanoi and departure from HCMC. They mistakenly thought a new visa wasn’t required; airline staff clarified their single-entry visa only allowed one entry, not multiple airports.

🔄 How to Handle Multiple Entry Needs

If your itinerary involves leaving Vietnam and coming back within 30 days, you have two main options:

• ✔️ Apply for multiple-entry visa at a Vietnamese embassy/consulate
• ✔️ Use two separate single-entry eVisas (one for each entry)

While double applications cost more, many travelers report this as the most reliable approach.

Traveler Case: A Taiwanese backpacker in 2025 visited Cambodia mid-trip. She purchased two separate eVisas — one for initial entry, one for return. Both approvals came within 3 days.

💡 Practical Tips

• ✅ Plan itinerary carefully: if exiting to Cambodia/Laos, prepare 2 eVisas
• ✅ Choose major airports for flexibility on entry port
• ✅ Carry printed copies showing your declared port
• ✅ If in doubt, confirm with embassy before booking flights
• ✅ Install a Vietnam eSIM to monitor emails for approvals

🌍 Real Traveler Experiences

Indian traveler (Jan 2025): Applied for Moc Bai entry but mistakenly arrived at HCMC Airport. He was admitted after officers confirmed his documents, but warned not to repeat.

UK traveler (July 2025): Used two eVisas for Vietnam–Laos–Vietnam trip. Both processed smoothly, though cost doubled.

Australian family (Feb 2025): Tried to change port from Hanoi to Da Nang. Accepted at airport, but airline check-in required clarification call with immigration.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Does Vietnam issue true multiple-entry eVisas online?
A: As of 2025, not generally. Embassy or consulate required for multiple-entry.

Q: Can I change my entry port after approval?
A: Airports may accept changes, land borders usually do not. Always confirm in advance.

Q: Can I hold two single-entry eVisas at once?
A: Yes, travelers often apply for two separate trips if planning to leave and re-enter within 30 days.

Q: What happens if I arrive at the wrong land border?
A: You may be denied entry. Airlines may also refuse boarding if port mismatch is clear.

🚀 Final Checklist

• ✅ Confirm if you need multiple entries before applying
• ✅ Apply early, consider embassy route for business trips
• ✅ Print your eVisa with port details
• ✅ Use a Vietnam eSIM to access documents at immigration

👉 For full entry tips, see our Vietnam eVisa & Connectivity Guide before applying.