Visa Extension or Visa Run - Which is better?

Introduction

Embarking on an extended stay in Vietnam presents Australians with the need to navigate the intricacies of Visa Extensions and Runs. Whether you find yourself immersed in the vibrant local culture, working as a digital nomad, or establishing roots as an expatriate, understanding the procedures for extending your stay becomes paramount. This comprehensive guide aims to simplify the processes involved in applying for a Visa Run or extending your visa in Vietnam. From submitting documents for assessment to exploring neighbouring countries for Visa Runs, this guide is designed to empower Australians with the knowledge needed to navigate the visa landscape effectively.

Understand the Visa Extension or Visa Run in Vietnam

• Visa Extension in Vietnam

A Visa Extension in Vietnam is a process that allows individuals to prolong their authorized stay in the country beyond the expiration date of their current visa. This is particularly beneficial for those who wish to continue their stay without leaving Vietnam. The process usually involves submitting an application to the Vietnam Immigration Department, and upon approval, a new visa duration is stamped onto the passport.

• Visa Run in Vietnam

A Visa Run in Vietnam involves leaving the country, traveling to a neighbouring nation, and then re-entering Vietnam with a new visa. Common options include traveling to nearby countries like Laos, Cambodia, Thailand, or China. The process typically requires exiting Vietnam, spending some time in the neighbouring country, and then returning to Vietnam with a new visa obtained during the brief stay abroad.

How to apply Vietnam Visa Extension or Visa Run for Australians?

Applying for Vietnam Visa Extension

For Australians seeking a hassle-free Visa Extension in Vietnam, the process is streamlined through either direct application at the Vietnam Immigration Department or the use of a reliable Visa Extension service. Opting for the latter involves a straightforward three-step approach:

Step 1: Documents Assessment

Provide a soft copy of your passport and the page displaying your current Vietnam visa to the extension service. They will assess the documents and inform you about the feasibility of the extension.

Step 2: Passport Submission and Fee Payment

Send your original passport to the specified address and pay the extension fee. This initiates the extension process, ensuring all necessary steps are taken for a successful outcome.

Step 3: Extended Passport Reception

Anticipate the return of your passport, now extended, within 8 to 10 working days. For urgent cases, expedited services deliver the extended passport in just 3 working days. This efficient process allows Australians to seamlessly prolong their stay in Vietnam.

Applying for Vietnam Visa Run

Here are the steps you need to follow when doing Visa Run to Vietnam from Australia.

Step 1: Prepare the necessary documents

You prepare the documents saved above to do the Visa Run.

Note: Depending on each country, Visa in a neighboring country can be done right at the border gate or at that country's Embassy in Vietnam.

Step 2: Leave Vietnam

You will have to complete procedures to leave Vietnam, get an exit stamp, then move to a neighboring country by plane, car or ship.

Step 3: Enter a third country

When you arrive in a neighboring country, you need to present the documents you have prepared to complete immigration procedures.

Step 4: Export to that country

You can choose to enter Vietnam immediately after exiting a third country or stay in that country depending on your wishes.

Step 5: Enter Vietnam and complete the visa application procedure

After arriving at the Vietnamese border gate, you will present the following documents: Original passport (valid for at least 6 months from the date of re-entry to Vietnam and at least 02 blank pages in the passport).

Except for foreign tourists under the visa exemption category, one of the documents valid for entry into Vietnam includes:

• 5-year visa exemption permit.
• Vietnam electronic visa.
• Entry dispatch (only applicable to visitors applying for a business visa).

If you get a visa at the border gate, you need to prepare more: form NA1,  4*6 cm photos. If you need a visa stamp at the border gate, the visa stamp will be affixed to the passport.

The Run Vietnam Visa procedure has been completed, you can continue to stay legally in Vietnam according to the regulations and deadline printed on the new Visa.

Tips for a Smooth Process

• Advance Planning:

Plan your extension or run well in advance to avoid last-minute complications.

• Document Preparation:

Ensure all required documents, whether for extension or run, are organized and ready.

• Selecting Reliable Services:

If using Visa Extension or approval services, opt for reputable providers to ensure a smooth and reliable process.

• Stay Informed:

Regularly check for updates on visa policies and regulations to stay informed about any changes that may affect your stay.

By following these steps and tips, Australians in Vietnam can seamlessly extend their stay, whether through a straightforward Visa Extension or an adventurous Visa Run, allowing them to continue enjoying the rich experiences Vietnam has to offer. So, extend your stay in Vietnam with seamless process and living in Vietnam as an Australians.