⚡ Entry Quick Tip
Vietnam Visa Extension 2026: Is It Still Possible?
⚡ Quick Answer
Vietnam e-visas (EV) cannot be extended. Your options are: exit and re-enter on a new e-visa, apply for a temporary residence card (if eligible), or convert to a different visa type at the Department of Immigration. Some visa types (VR, work visas) can be extended in-country.
One of the most common questions from travellers who’ve fallen in love with Vietnam: can I stay longer? The answer depends entirely on which visa you’re on.
E-Visa (EV) — Cannot Be Extended
Under Luật 23/2023/QH15 (effective August 2023), e-visas are issued for a maximum of 90 days and are not extendable. Your only legal options if you want to stay beyond your e-visa expiry:
- Exit and re-enter: Apply for a new e-visa before exiting. There’s no mandatory gap between e-visas — you can re-enter the day after leaving.
- Change to another visa type: If you have a qualifying reason (work, study, family), you can apply to convert to a different visa type at the Department of Immigration without leaving the country.
⚠️ “Visa runs” to Cambodia or Thailand are popular among long-stay travellers. They’re legal — but Vietnamese immigration has discretion to question travellers who repeatedly re-enter on tourist visas without a clear reason. After multiple consecutive tourist visa entries, some travellers are asked to demonstrate ties to their home country.
Visa Types That Can Be Extended In-Country
| Visa Type | Extendable? | Where |
|---|---|---|
| E-visa (EV) | No | Must exit and reapply |
| Tourist visa (DL) | Sometimes | Dept. of Immigration |
| Family visit visa (VR) | Yes | Dept. of Immigration |
| Work visa (LĐ) | Yes | Via employer / Dept. of Immigration |
| Student visa (DH) | Yes | Via school / Dept. of Immigration |
Temporary Residence Card (Thẻ Tạm Trú)
If you’re working, studying, or have family ties in Vietnam, a temporary residence card may be an option. These are issued for 1–10 years depending on category and effectively replace the need for a visa. Speak to a licensed immigration agent in Vietnam for eligibility.
✅ Most practical option for long stays: Get a 90-day multiple-entry e-visa ($50), stay 90 days, exit briefly, repeat. This is legal, straightforward, and requires no in-country paperwork.
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