Vietnam Visa Overstay Penalty: Fines, Bans & What Happens (2026)
Many travelers don’t realize how seriously Vietnam treats visa overstays. Unlike some countries where a short overstay at the airport results in a small payment and a warning, Vietnam’s immigration system logs overstays and can impose bans that affect future travel. Here’s exactly what the law says — as of 2026.
Overstay Fine Schedule (Decree 144/2021/NĐ-CP, Article 18)
| Overstay Duration | Fine (Individual) | Approximate USD |
|---|---|---|
| Under 16 days | 500,000 – 2,000,000 VND | ~$20 – $80 |
| 16 – under 30 days | 3,000,000 – 5,000,000 VND | ~$120 – $200 |
| 30 – under 60 days | 5,000,000 – 10,000,000 VND | ~$200 – $400 |
| 60 – under 90 days | 10,000,000 – 15,000,000 VND | ~$400 – $600 |
| 90 days or more | 15,000,000 – 20,000,000 VND | ~$600 – $800 |
Note: Organizations (e.g., employers) that allow or facilitate overstays are fined double the individual rate. USD amounts are approximate based on ~25,000 VND/USD.
- From 16 days: possible deportation (forced departure at your own expense)
- From 30 days: possible entry ban of 1–5 years
- Criminal liability possible under Article 347 of the Penal Code for extended illegal stay
What Actually Happens at the Airport
When you attempt to depart Vietnam after an overstay, immigration officers at the airport will flag your passport immediately — Vietnam’s system records your entry date. You will be taken aside for processing. Depending on the duration, you may:
- Pay the fine on the spot and be allowed to board (short overstays)
- Be detained for longer processing (extended overstays)
- Be formally deported with an official ban notation in the system
- Miss your flight — airlines do not hold planes for immigration processing
Does an Entry Ban Actually Stick?
Yes — and it’s recorded in Vietnam’s immigration database. Future attempts to enter Vietnam (including with a new passport, in some cases) may trigger a flag. A formal ban issued at deportation will be shared with border control. The ban duration (1–5 years) depends on the severity of the overstay and officer discretion.
What If You Realize You’ve Overstayed?
If you notice your visa has expired and you’re still in Vietnam, the best course of action is to contact the Department of Immigration proactively. Presenting yourself voluntarily typically results in a better outcome than being caught at the airport. Our team can advise on the right steps for your situation.
Worried about your visa status? Our team helps travelers sort visa extensions and avoid costly mistakes.
Get Visa Assistance →Mini FAQ
Can I overstay by 1 day accidentally?
Yes — and it’s still a violation. The fine for under 16 days is lower, but it still goes on record. Always leave a buffer day before your visa expires.
Does Vietnam share overstay records with other countries?
Vietnam does not routinely share overstay records globally, but a formal deportation may appear in INTERPOL databases. Future Vietnam visa applications will also flag prior overstays.
What about e-visa expiry vs. entry date?
Your e-visa has a fixed validity period that starts from the date printed on the visa — not the date you actually enter Vietnam. Make sure your entry date is within the visa window.
