If you’re in Vietnam and your visa is about to expire, you’ll need to extend it if you want to stay in the country longer. This is very important, because if you overstay your visa in Vietnam, you may face consequences that have serious implications for your travel plans—and your ability to enter Vietnam in the future.

Vietnam Visa Types for US Citizens

The Vietnamese immigration department offers several types of visas for US citizens , including tourist visas, business visas, and e-visas. Tourist visas are suitable for those traveling for tourism purposes for up to 30 days. Business visas are valid for up to 90 days and are for those traveling for work-related purposes. E-visas are a convenient option for those who want to apply for an online visa.

 

Important Information About Vietnam Visa Extensions

Whether you’re applying for a business visa extension or a tourist visa extension, it’s important to note that you must apply before your current visa expires. If your visa has already expired, you’ll need to leave the country and reapply for a new visa.

While the overall process is similar for Vietnam business visas  and tourist visas, the specific requirements and supporting documents may differ . It’s essential to check with Entriva or the Vietnam Immigration Office for any specific requirements related to your visa type.

If you’re unsure about your visa status or if you need to extend your visa, Entriva can help with any questions you may have. You can also consult with a qualified immigration attorney or the Vietnam Immigration Department for guidance.

How to Extend Your Vietnam Visa

For all the visas listed above that can be extended or renewed, eligible foreign nationals will follow the same process. It’s recommended that you apply for your visa renewal at least two weeks prior to expiration day.

Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to get a Vietnam visa extension.

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1. Figure Out Which Forms You Need

Let Entriva contact the Vietnam Immigration Department for you. We’ll deliver the necessary forms and instructions for extending your visa.

2. Fill out the Application Form

Once you’ve obtained the Application for Extension of Temporary Residence form (NA5) from Entriva, you’ll need to provide your personal information, current visa details, and your reason for extending your stay.

3. Submit the Application Form

After completing the form, submit it along with your passport, current visa, and two passport-sized photos to Entriva, who will file it with the Immigration Department.

You’ll also need to pay the visa-extension fee at this time. The fee varies depending on the length of your visa extension. The final cost for your visa will be displayed in your shopping cart, including Entriva’s service fees.

4. Wait While Your Visa Extension Is Processed

The processing time for a Vietnam visa extension can take anywhere between five and seven business days. Make sure to keep your passport with its original visa stamp during this time, as you’ll need it to leave and enter the country.

5. Pick Up Your Passport and New Visa

Once your visa extension is approved, you’ll need to return to the Immigration Department to pick up your passport and new visa.  Make sure to check the visa details to ensure that they’re correct.

Documents Needed for Vietnam Visa Extension

In order to extend your visa, you will need the following:

  • Valid passport with the original Vietnam visa inside
  • Visa Extension Form (filled out)
  • Two passport-sized color photos
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Business visas

Business visa extensions may require additional documentation related to your business activities or employment in Vietnam. You should also consult with your company and business partners in Vietnam.

Examples of documents can include:

  • Valid passport with original business visa inside
  • Visa extension form (filled out)
  • Two passport-sized color photos
  • Letter of recommendation for extension
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Vietnam Visa Extension Timeline and Costs

The visa-extension process usually takes between five and 10 days.

The costs depend on the type of visa you had entering Vietnam  and what type of visa you’re trying to extend. Normally, the Vietnam government’s costs are:

  • One-month single entry: US$6 service fee + $25 stamp fee
  • One-month multiple entry: US$8 service fee + $50 stamp fee
  • Three-month single entry: US$15 service fee + $25 stamp fee
  • Three-month multiple entry: US$20 service fee + $50 stamp fee

Entriva’s handling fees start as low as $50.

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Penalties for Overstaying Your Vietnam Visa

Some of the consequences you could face  if you overstay your visa include a fine, detention and deportation, blacklisting, and potential difficulty in obtaining a visa for other countries. It is therefore crucial that you know when your current visa will expire and be able to renew it before that date arrives.

While exact penalties and fines are subject to change, these are the general guidelines of the fines you can expect to pay for overstaying your visa:

  • Overstaying for less than 16 days: ₫500,000 (VND) to ₫ 2,000,000 (US$22 to $88)
  • Overstaying for 16 days – less than 30 days: ₫3,000,000 to ₫5,000,000 (US$133 to $221)
  • Overstaying for 30 days – less than 60 days: ₫5,000,000 to ₫10,000,000 (US$221 to $441)
  • Overstaying for 60 days – less than 90 days: ₫10,000,000 to ₫15,000,000 (US$441 to $661)
  • Overstaying for at least 90 days: ₫15,000,000 to 20,000,000 (US$661 to $885)

Prepare for Your Vietnam Trip

You’ll need an appropriate visa and a valid passport to enter Vietnam, and at Entriva, we can easily and efficiently help with every aspect of getting a Vietnam visa. Start your visa application process.

For more information on other aspects of travel to Vietnam, including local laws, health and safety, and local culture and customs, visit our Vietnam content hub.