Want to Stay Longer in Vietnam? Here's How Australians Actually Do It
There's no simple "extension button" — it's one of two real paths, and picking the wrong one wastes time. Here's exactly how each works.
Vietnam e-Visas can't simply be "extended" online. If you want to stay longer, you have two real options: visit a Vietnamese immigration office in-country to process an extension directly, or exit to a visa-exempt country like Thailand or Singapore and apply for a brand-new e-Visa before re-entering. The border-run route requires exiting Vietnam first — the new application can't be submitted while you're still inside the country.
Why Overstaying Isn't Worth the Risk
Overstaying your visa, even briefly, can result in fines and complicate future entry to Vietnam. If your plans might run past your visa's validity — work not finished, or simply wanting more time — plan one of the two paths below well before your visa expires, not after.
Part TwoYour Two Real Options
Option 1: In-Country Extension
- Visit a Vietnamese immigration office directly
- No need to leave Vietnam
- Requires your current visa/approval documentation
- Availability and processing can vary by office
Option 2: Border Run + New e-Visa
- Exit to Thailand, Singapore, or another nearby country
- Apply for a completely new e-Visa after exiting
- Send us your exit stamp photo for faster processing — even 1–2 hours if needed
- Re-enter Vietnam on the new, valid e-Visa
If You Choose the Border-Run Route
This is often the faster, more predictable option, since it doesn't depend on a specific immigration office's availability. The new e-Visa follows the same processing tiers as any application:
Full pricing for every tier: urgent visa guide.
Part FourWhat You'll Need Either Way
- Passport valid at least 6 months beyond your new intended stay
- Your current visa/e-Visa approval documentation
- For the border-run route: a clear photo of your exit stamp once you've left Vietnam
- A compliant photo for the new application — see photo requirements
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I extend my e-Visa online without leaving Vietnam?
Do I have to leave Vietnam to get a new visa?
How fast can a new e-Visa be processed after a border run?
What happens if I overstay while deciding?
Continue Reading
Planning to Stay Longer?
Message WhatsApp with your current visa expiry date and we'll walk you through the right option — in-country extension or border run.
WhatsApp Now → Start New Applicationsupport@vietnamvisaeasy.net · available around the clock, GMT+7
