Visa Run Questions and Answers

A visa run is a short trip out of Vietnam and back in, across a nearby land border, so that you can enter again on a new visa or visa-exempt stay. It is a normal international exit and a normal new entry. The border officer decides on entry each time.

To the Lao Bao International Border Gate in Quang Tri, on the border with Laos (Dansavanh on the Lao side). It is the closest international land border to Da Nang, about 260 km away, and Lao Bao is on Vietnam's list of e-visa entry gates.

Yes. With an early pickup (around 04:00–05:00) most travellers are back in Da Nang or Hoi An in the evening. It is a long day: roughly 10–12 hours on the road plus time at the border.

About 260 km by road through the Hai Van tunnel, Hue and Dong Ha, then west on Highway 9. Allow 5–6 hours each way. From Hoi An it is about 30 km further.

Yes, if you prefer a slower trip or your e-visa needs more time. Tell us when you enquire and we'll plan a two-day version.

Most nationalities can get a Laos visa on arrival at Dansavanh, paid in USD. Citizens of ASEAN countries and a few others are visa-exempt. See the Laos exemption list, and tell us your nationality so we can confirm.

A seat in a shared car costs VND 800,000 per person, round trip. A private car costs VND 2,500,000 for a 4-seat car (up to 3 passengers) or VND 2,800,000 for a 7-seat car (up to 5 passengers), round trip. Both options pick you up and drop you off at your address in Da Nang or Hoi An, at the same price. Private gives you the whole car and more flexibility on timing. Transport prices don’t include the Vietnam e-visa (from VND 1,950,000) or the Laos visa-on-arrival fee.

It is set by the Lao authorities and depends on your passport, typically in the range of USD 30–50, plus small border fees. Bring clean, undamaged USD notes. We tell you the current amount for your nationality before departure.

Lao Bao land border (Quang Tri). An e-visa issued for a different gate, such as Da Nang International Airport, can cause problems at the counter.

No. Issuance is a decision of Lao immigration. Eligible passports with correct documents and cash are routinely issued a visa, but no agency can guarantee it.

Please contact us before you book. Overstays are handled at the exit counter and can involve fines and extra checks. Your situation needs individual advice.

No. Nobody outside the Vietnamese authorities can. We organise the trip, explain the procedure and check your paperwork with you, but the decision to admit you is made by the border officer.

Standard processing takes about 5 working days, and it can take longer at busy times. Express processing is available from 1 hour; see the express price table. Approval and timing are always decided by the Vietnam Immigration Department.

The gate where you will actually enter Vietnam. For a visa run to Laos, that is Lao Bao. If you will fly in, choose the airport, for example Da Nang International Airport.

No. For an e-visa we need a clear photo of your passport data page and a portrait photo, sent through a secure channel we agree with you, not through the website form.

See the pricing page. We confirm the final price in writing before you book.

Send the inquiry form or message us on WhatsApp with your nationality, preferred date and number of travellers.

Yes. The rules are in our cancellation policy. Tell us as early as you can.