Plan your visa extension in Vietnam with our guide for tourists! Learn about requirements, application process, costs, cultural site visits, eco-friendly Vietnam Tours, and top providers for a seamless experience with Vietnam Travel. Extend your adventure today!
Experience Vietnam’s heritage with visa-extended toursWritten by Tony Bùi, with over 20 years of experience in the travel industry, personally guiding and organizing tours for over 100,000 travellers across Southeast Asia. This guide draws from firsthand insights, guest feedback from Legend Travel Group surveys, and official sources like vietnam-visa.com, travel.state.gov, evisa.gov.vn, vinpearl.com, and vietnam.travel. Information based on the latest data; verify before travel. Reflects Vietnam’s updated travel regulations.
Travelers, please note: Vietnam's visa extension policies allow tourists to extend their stay beyond the initial visa or exemption period. Tourists with e-visas or visa exemptions can apply for extensions through the Vietnam Immigration Department or authorized agencies. This guide details visa extension requirements for tourists, application processes, and travel tips for a seamless extended journey in Vietnam.
Vietnam, a captivating Southeast Asian destination, is renowned for its cultural landmarks like Hoi An’s ancient town, Ha Long Bay’s limestone karsts, and bustling cities like Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City vinpearl.com. Understanding visa extension requirements for tourists allows you to prolong your stay and explore more deeply, whether joining guided Vietnam Tours or traveling independently. Tourists can extend e-visas or exemptions for up to 90 days (single or multiple entry) through the Immigration Department, facilitating continued adventures in Vietnam’s diverse landscapes and cultural sites. This guide provides practical visa extension insights, cultural tips, and eco-friendly Vietnam Travel options for tourists seeking to extend their visas.
Following Vietnam’s updated travel regulations, extensions are available at Immigration Offices in major cities like Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, and Da Nang. This guide blends visa extension requirements, application processes, and sustainable Vietnam Travel ideas for a worry-free extended stay.
Tourists can extend visas for up to 90 days (single or multiple entry) at Immigration Offices in Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, or Da Nang, with fees ranging from $10–$155 (250,000–3,875,000 VND) depending on duration and type. A sponsor (e.g., hotel or agency) is required for extensions. Cultural site entries like Hoi An cost $5–$7 (125,000–175,000 VND); guided tours range from $15–$80 (375,000–2,000,000 VND). Temporary residence registration is mandatory for extended stays, typically handled by hotels. Verify extension requirements via vietnam-visa.com or travel.state.gov.
Visa Exemption Extension:
Purpose: Extend short-term stays beyond the initial exemption period for tourism.
Eligibility: Tourists from visa-exempt countries (e.g., ASEAN nations, UK, Japan) who have entered under the 14–45 day exemption vietnam-visa.com.
Duration: Up to 90 days from the original entry date vietnam-visa.com.
Cost: $10–$50 (250,000–1,250,000 VND) depending on extension length; additional agency fees $20–$50 (500,000–1,250,000 VND) if using a sponsor vietnam-visa.com.
Requirements: Valid passport; proof of sponsorship (e.g., hotel or agency letter); application form (NA5); passport photos (2, 4x6 cm); original visa or entry stamp; apply at Immigration Offices vietnam-visa.com.
Extension: Apply 7–10 days before exemption expires; processing takes 5–7 working days vietnam-visa.com.
E-Visa Extension:
Purpose: Extend e-visa stays for tourism beyond the initial 30–90 days.
Eligibility: Tourists holding a valid e-visa evisa.gov.vn.
Duration: Up to 90 days from the original entry date evisa.gov.vn.
Cost: $25–$155 (625,000–3,875,000 VND) depending on extension length and type (single/multiple entry); non-refundable vietnam-visa.com.
Application Process:
Visit a Vietnam Immigration Office in Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, or Da Nang; agencies can assist for a fee vietnam-visa.com.
Submit application form (NA5), passport, two passport photos (4x6 cm), original e-visa printout, and sponsor letter (e.g., from hotel or tour agency) vietnam-visa.com.
Pay the fee ($25–$155) in cash (VND or USD) vietnam-visa.com.
Receive extension stamp in passport after 5–7 working days vietnam-visa.com.
Extension: Apply 7–10 days before e-visa expires; limited to one extension per visa vietnam-visa.com.
Embassy/Consulate Visa Extension:
Purpose: Extend embassy-issued visas for tourism or other purposes.
Eligibility: Tourists holding a valid embassy visa travel.state.gov.
Duration: Up to 90 days from the original entry date (single or multiple entry) vietnam-visa.com.
Cost: $25–$155 (625,000–3,875,000 VND) depending on visa type and extension length; agency fees $20–$50 (500,000–1,250,000 VND) if using a sponsor vietnam-visa.com.
Requirements: Valid passport; application form (NA5); two passport photos (4x6 cm); original visa; sponsor letter (e.g., from hotel or agency); apply at Immigration Offices vietnam-visa.com.
Extension: Apply 7–10 days before visa expires; processing takes 5–7 working days vietnam-visa.com.
Key Restrictions:
Extensions require a sponsor (e.g., hotel, agency, or Vietnamese resident); no self-sponsored extensions vietnam-visa.com.
Temporary residence registration is mandatory for extended stays, handled by sponsors travel.state.gov.
Overstay penalties: 500,000 VND/day ($20/day); potential exit bans or deportation travel.state.gov.
Important Note: Visa extensions are not guaranteed and depend on Immigration Department approval; consider a visa run (exit and re-entry) as an alternative vietnam-visa.com.
Passport: Valid for at least 6 months from extension application date with two blank pages vietnam-visa.com.
Sponsor: Required for all extensions; can be a hotel, tour agency, or Vietnamese resident providing a sponsorship letter vietnam-visa.com.
Application Form: Form NA5, available at Immigration Offices or online vietnam-visa.com.
Photos: Two passport-sized photos (4x6 cm) vietnam-visa.com.
Proof of Residence: Temporary residence registration certificate from your hotel or sponsor travel.state.gov.
Cultural etiquette ensures a respectful experience during Vietnam Tours, complementing visa extension for tourists. Here’s your guide, based on current norms:
Greetings: Offer a “xin chào” (hello) with a slight nod; use both hands for transactions to show respect, especially at Immigration Offices or temples culturetrip.com.
Dress: Wear modest clothing covering shoulders and knees for temple visits (e.g., Temple of Literature in Hanoi); a lightweight scarf ($1 or 25,000 VND) aligns with local norms vinpearl.com.
Behaviour: Maintain a calm demeanor at Immigration Offices; avoid loud behavior or disputes; ask permission before photographing locals or rituals; carry passport or visa extension stamp securely. Avoid public criticism of the Vietnamese government (penalties apply). A guest shared: “Respecting Vietnamese customs made our visa extension trip seamless.” culturetrip.com
Customs: Tipping is not mandatory but appreciated ($0.20–$1 or 5,000–25,000 VND); avoid littering at cultural sites like Ha Long Bay or Hoi An’s ancient town culturetrip.com.
Tip: Say “cảm ơn” (thank you) to officials or guides; use eco-friendly practices like reusable water bottles ($2 or 50,000 VND) to support sustainable Vietnam Travel; keep passport handy for checks. Tony Bùi notes: “In 20 years guiding, I’ve seen tourists thrive with respectful visa extensions.”
General Tips:
Language: Carry a phrase card ($1 or 25,000 VND) for Vietnamese basics like “cảm ơn”; English is widely spoken in tourist areas like Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh City, but translation apps are useful culturetrip.com.
Respect: Follow office rules (no photography in restricted areas); respect local vendors with fair purchases in markets.
Navigation: Use PassApp for ride-hailing after extension; carry a printed visa extension stamp or passport photocopy travel.state.gov.
Eco-Tip: Opt for bicycles ($1–$3 or 25,000–75,000 VND/day) or motorbike taxis ($0.50–$2 or 12,500–50,000 VND) to reduce emissions vietnam.travel.
Below is a curated list of tour options to enhance your extended stay, based on the latest data from vietnam-visa.com, travel.state.gov, evisa.gov.vn, vinpearl.com, and vietnam.travel. Confirm schedules and prices before booking.
Details: Explore Hanoi’s Old Quarter, Hoi An’s ancient town, or Ha Long Bay independently after visa extension; suitable for tourists with extended stays; low to moderate difficulty vietnam.travel.
Visa Tips: Apply for extensions 7–10 days before expiry at Immigration Offices; carry extension stamp or passport photocopy; register temporary residence at hotels vietnam-visa.com.
Schedule: Daily; Hoi An ancient town open 8:00 AM–5:00 PM ($5–$7 or 125,000–175,000 VND); Temple of Literature open 8:00 AM–5:00 PM ($1–$2 or 25,000–50,000 VND); Ha Long Bay accessible anytime.
Cost: Entry: free (markets); Hoi An: $5–$7 (125,000–175,000 VND); Temple of Literature: $1–$2 (25,000–50,000 VND); transport (bicycle: $1–$3 or 25,000–75,000 VND/day; motorbike taxi: $0.50–$2 or 12,500–50,000 VND); local purchases: $0.20–$10 (5,000–250,000 VND).
Location: Hanoi, Hoi An, Ha Long Bay, Vietnam.
Eco-Friendly Note: Use bicycles or walk to reduce emissions; avoid littering at cultural sites.
Tip: Confirm extension eligibility and apply early; check vietnam-visa.com; a guest noted: “Self-guided exploration was seamless with the visa extension.”
Details: 1-day group tour visiting Hanoi’s Old Quarter and Temple of Literature; includes English-speaking guide, transport from Hanoi hotels, lunch, and entry fees; low difficulty.
Visa Tips: Ensure valid extension stamp; carry passport photocopy; guides assist with residence registration travel.state.gov.
Schedule: Daily; departs 7:00 AM from Hanoi hotels; returns by 4:00 PM.
Cost: $25–$40/person (625,000–1,000,000 VND, includes transport and entry).
Pick-up/Drop-off: Hotels in Hanoi.
Eco-Friendly Note: Group transport with fuel-efficient vehicles minimizes impact; supports local communities.
Tip: Book via legendtravelgroup.com; a guest noted: “Legend’s tour ensured visa compliance and cultural immersion during our extended stay.”
Details: 1-day guided tour visiting Hoi An’s ancient town and a cycling tour; includes English-speaking guide, transport from Hoi An, lunch, and entry fees; low to moderate difficulty.
Visa Tips: Use extended visa for multi-city travel; carry extension stamp or passport photocopy; confirm eligibility vietnam-visa.com.
Schedule: Daily; departs 6:30 AM from Hoi An hotels; returns by 4:00 PM.
Cost: $30–$50/person (750,000–1,250,000 VND, includes entry).
Pick-up/Drop-off: Hotels in Hoi An.
Eco-Friendly Note: Small groups and cycling reduce environmental impact; supports local communities.
Tip: Book via localvietnam.com; a guest noted: “The combo tour was visa-ready and enriching during our extended stay.”
Details: 2–3 day tour combining Hanoi, Ha Long Bay, and Hoi An; includes English-speaking guide, transport, accommodation, meals, and entry fees; low to moderate difficulty.
Visa Tips: Use extended visa for multi-city travel; carry extension stamp or passport photocopy; confirm temporary residence registration travel.state.gov.
Schedule: Daily; departs from Hanoi hotels; returns after 2–3 days.
Cost: $80–$200/person (2,000,000–5,000,000 VND, includes entries).
Pick-up/Drop-off: Hotels or custom locations in Hanoi.
Eco-Friendly Note: Uses eco-lodges and fuel-efficient transport; supports local communities.
Tip: Book Vietnam Tours via legendtravelgroup.com or WhatsApp (+84 825862222); a guest noted: “The multi-day tour was a visa-smart cultural journey during our extension.”
Self-Guided Exploration: Flexible and cost-effective, ideal for tourists with extended visas.
Group Cultural Tours: Affordable and guided, perfect for visa-compliant cultural insights.
Combo Cultural and Adventure Tours: Blend cultural visits with eco-friendly activities for a comprehensive journey.
Multi-Day Cultural and Adventure Tours: Offer in-depth exploration with visa-smart itineraries.
Eco-Friendly Note: Group and multi-day tours use fuel-efficient transport or bicycles, supporting Vietnam’s green tourism goals.
Key visa extension travel opportunities include:
Tet (Vietnamese Lunar New Year): Typically late January to February, vibrant with temple ceremonies and family traditions; warm and dry (18–28°C); check dates at vietnam.travel.
Hung Kings Festival: Typically March to April, honoring Vietnam’s founders; warm and dry (24–32°C); check dates at vietnam.travel.
Mid-Autumn Festival: Typically September, festive with lantern parades; warm and wet (24–31°C); check dates at vietnam.travel.
Cultural Site Visits: Dry season (January–August) for comfortable weather; February for optimal conditions vinpearl.com.
Dry season (January–August, 18–33°C) is ideal for visa extensions and cultural visits. Hot period (April–August, 24–33°C) suits early morning outings. Wet season (September–December, 24–31°C) is best for budget travelers and indoor experiences; apply for extensions during this period to avoid peak crowds. Morning visits (6:00 AM–10:00 AM) avoid heat or rain. Verify forecasts via weather.com.
Verify Extension Needs: Tourists can extend visa exemptions or e-visas for up to 90 days; apply 7–10 days before expiry at Immigration Offices in Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, or Da Nang; use a sponsor for applications vietnam-visa.com.
Documentation: Ensure passport validity (6+ months); carry original visa or entry stamp; provide sponsor letter, application form (NA5), photos, and fees; apply in person or through agencies vietnam-visa.com.
Residence Registration: Confirm hotels or sponsors register your extended stay with local police; carry proof of registration travel.state.gov.
Eco-Tip: Use digital extension documents to reduce paper waste; opt for bicycles or motorbike taxis for sustainable travel.
Tip: Apply for extensions early; double-check details to match passport; carry small VND notes for local purchases; check extension status at Immigration Offices. For 5-year exemptions, apply at Vietnamese embassies with proof of Vietnamese origin vietnam-visa.com.
Pack for a comfortable, sustainable extended stay:
Documents: Passport (valid 6+ months), original visa or entry stamp, sponsor letter, application form (NA5), two passport photos (4x6 cm), fees ($25–$155 or 625,000–3,875,000 VND), wallet ($2 or 50,000 VND), tour bookings.
Clothing: Modest clothing covering shoulders and knees for temple visits; lightweight scarf ($1 or 25,000 VND); quick-dry clothing and raincoat ($2 or 50,000 VND) for wet season; lightweight clothing like cotton or linen and light jacket ($3 or 75,000 VND) for dry season; waterproof shoes ($3 or 75,000 VND); hat ($2 or 50,000 VND).
Essentials: Reusable water bottle ($2 or 50,000 VND); snacks ($0.20–$1 or 5,000–25,000 VND, e.g., pho); small backpack ($2 or 50,000 VND); sunscreen ($1 or 25,000 VND); insect repellent ($1 or 25,000 VND).
Tech: Phone with translation apps (e.g., Google Translate); charger ($3–$5 or 75,000–125,000 VND); local SIM ($2–$3 or 50,000–75,000 VND); waterproof camera ($6 or 150,000 VND) for photos.
Eco Items: Reusable tote ($1 or 25,000 VND) for purchases; phrase card ($1 or 25,000 VND) with Vietnamese basics.
Extras: Small VND notes for donations or purchases; small first aid kit ($2 or 50,000 VND); umbrella ($2 or 50,000 VND) for wet season; money belt ($2 or 50,000 VND) for valuables. Tip: Pack light (1 small bag, max 5 kg); reusable items support sustainability.
Visa Extension Costs
Exemption Extension: $10–$50 (250,000–1,250,000 VND) for up to 90 days; agency fees $20–$50 (500,000–1,250,000 VND) vietnam-visa.com.
E-Visa Extension: $25–$155 (625,000–3,875,000 VND) for up to 90 days; non-refundable vietnam-visa.com.
Embassy Visa Extension: $25–$155 (625,000–3,875,000 VND) depending on visa type; agency fees $20–$50 (500,000–1,250,000 VND) vietnam-visa.com.
Self-Guided Exploration: Entry: free (markets); Hoi An: $5–$7 (125,000–175,000 VND); Temple of Literature: $1–$2 (25,000–50,000 VND); transport (bicycle: $1–$3 or 25,000–75,000 VND/day; motorbike taxi: $0.50–$2 or 12,500–50,000 VND).
Group Cultural Tours: $25–$40 (625,000–1,000,000 VND, includes transport and entry).
Combo Cultural and Adventure Tours: $30–$50 (750,000–1,250,000 VND, includes entry).
Multi-Day Cultural and Adventure Tours: $80–$200 (2,000,000–5,000,000 VND, includes entries). Safety-Related Costs
Money Belt: $2 (50,000 VND).
Local SIM for Emergency Calls: $2–$3 (50,000–75,000 VND).
Travel Insurance (Recommended): $10–$30 (250,000–750,000 VND). Other Costs
Local Snacks (e.g., banh mi, pho): $0.20–$1 (5,000–25,000 VND).
Souvenirs (e.g., crafts, textiles): $0.20–$10 (5,000–250,000 VND).
Donations: $0.20–$1 (5,000–25,000 VND). Total Daily Cost (Per Person)
Budget: $15–$40 (self-guided, snacks, transport, entry).
Mid-range: $40–$70 (group tour, purchases).
Luxury: $70–$120 (private tour, premium souvenirs). Tip: Budget $15–$120 for tours, visa extension costs, and transport; $0.20–$10 for purchases or add-ons; use visa extensions to save on new visa applications.
Visa Tips: Apply for extensions 7–10 days before expiry at Immigration Offices in Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, or Da Nang; use a sponsor for applications; exemptions and e-visas non-extendable; consider visa runs as alternatives vietnam-visa.com.
Etiquette: Use “xin chào”; dress modestly for temples; respect local customs; avoid littering at cultural sites.
Access: Choose self-guided exploration for flexibility, group tours for visa-compliant insights, or multi-day tours for immersion.
Schedules: Immigration Offices open 8:00 AM–4:00 PM (Monday–Friday); cultural sites open 8:00 AM–5:00 PM; peak crowds in dry season (January–August); book early for festivals.
Sustainability: Use bicycles or motorbike taxis; carry reusable items; support local vendors with fair purchases.
Navigation: Use offline maps (Maps.me) for cities like Hanoi or Hoi An.
Weather: Dry season (Jan–Aug, 18–33°C) ideal; hot period (Apr–Aug, 24–33°C) suits early mornings; wet season (Sep–Dec, 24–31°C) requires rain gear; check forecasts via weather.com.
Safety Note: Secure valuables with a money belt ($2 or 50,000 VND); beware of pickpocketing in markets or nightlife areas; carry emergency numbers (Police: 113, Medical: 115, nearest embassy).
Can tourists extend their visa in Vietnam? Yes, visa exemptions and e-visas can be extended up to 90 days through Immigration Offices with a sponsor vietnam-visa.com.
How do tourists apply for a visa extension? Submit form NA5, passport, photos, sponsor letter, and fees at Immigration Offices in Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, or Da Nang; processing takes 5–7 days vietnam-visa.com.
How much does a visa extension cost? $25–$155 (625,000–3,875,000 VND) depending on duration and type; agency fees $20–$50 (500,000–1,250,000 VND) vietnam-visa.com.
Can visa exemptions be extended? Yes, up to 90 days with a sponsor; apply 7–10 days before expiry vietnam-visa.com.
What are the penalties for overstaying? Fines of 500,000 VND/day ($20/day); potential exit bans or deportation travel.state.gov.
Is Visa on Arrival available for extensions? No, VOA discontinued in 2022; use extensions or e-visas for longer stays vietnam-visa.com.
Enhance your extended Vietnam journey with eco-conscious tours from Legend Travel Group:
Vietnam Cultural Eco-Tour ($25–$40/person, 1 day): Guided temple and market tour with sustainable practices.
Vietnam Cultural and Adventure Trail ($80–$150/person, 2 days): Explore cultural sites and eco-friendly activities.
Vietnam Explorer ($150–$250/person, 3 days): Multi-site adventure with eco-lodges and community-focused activities. Prices include guides, transport, and entry fees; group discounts available. Explore options at legendtravelgroup.com or contact sales@legendtravelgroup.com / WhatsApp (+84825862222) for your Vietnam Travel plans.
Mastering Vietnam Visa Extension for Tourists with cultural etiquette—modest attire, polite greetings like “xin chào,” and visa-smart planning—unlocks a vibrant, eco-friendly extended journey through this Southeast Asian gem. With tour costs from $15–$200, sustainable Vietnam Tours, and attractions like Hoi An and Ha Long Bay, this trip offers adventure and sustainability. Whether choosing a self-guided or guided experience with Vietnam Travel, apply for extensions early through Immigration Offices with a sponsor, and respect local customs for the best experience. Note that Visa on Arrival is no longer available; plan accordingly. Safe travels!
Sources:
vietnam-visa.com
travel.state.gov
evisa.gov.vn
vinpearl.com
vietnam.travel
Favorite experiences booked by travelers
