Vietnam and Thailand Border Fees: A Comprehensive Guide for Seamless Crossings

Written 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 and guest feedback from Legend Travel Group surveys. By Legend Travel Group.

A Practical, Cultural, and Sustainable Travel Essential

Crossing between Vietnam and Thailand by land is a popular route for travelers seeking authentic overland adventures, from the bustling streets of Ho Chi Minh City to the serene temples of Bangkok. Key border points like Moc Bai–Bavet connect these vibrant nations, offering cultural immersion and scenic journeys. Understanding border fees ensures a hassle-free transition, whether joining Vietnam Tours or Thailand Tours. This guide details official charges, payment procedures, and sustainable travel options, helping you plan with confidence.

Legend Travel Group specializes in seamless cross-border experiences. Book your journey with just a 10% deposit, payable up to 30 days before departure—keeping your travel plans stress-free and flexible.

Administrative Note

Border fees vary by nationality and entry/exit direction. Vietnamese exiting to Thailand and Thai entering Vietnam typically face minimal or no fees, while third-country nationals (e.g., EU, US, Australia) pay standard immigration processing fees. Payments are accepted in local currency (VND or THB) or USD. Always carry small bills. Verify current rates at border checkpoints or with Legend Travel Group before travel.

Moc Bai (Vietnam) – Bavet (Cambodia) – Aranyaprathet (Thailand) Route

This is the most popular overland path between Ho Chi Minh City and Bangkok.

Exiting Vietnam at Moc Bai

• Vietnamese Citizens: Free exit.

• Foreign Nationals (Third-Country):

  • Exit Fee: 200,000 VND (~$8 USD) – official immigration processing.

  • Optional “Express Service”: 100,000–200,000 VND (not required; avoid if offered by touts).

• Payment: VND or USD accepted at the counter. Use official booths only.

Entering Thailand at Aranyaprathet

• Thai Citizens: Free entry.

• Foreign Nationals (Visa Exempt or E-Visa):

  • Entry Fee: None (included in visa exemption or e-visa).

  • Immigration Processing: Free.

• Note: Thailand does not charge entry fees for visa-exempt travelers or e-visa holders.

Returning: Thailand → Vietnam

• Exiting Thailand: Free for all.

• Entering Vietnam at Moc Bai:

  • Vietnamese: Free.

  • Foreigners: 200,000 VND (~$8 USD) entry processing fee.

Other Key Borders

Payment Tips

• Accepted Currencies: VND, THB, USD (small bills preferred).

• Avoid Touts: Only pay at official immigration windows.

• Receipts: Always request and keep receipts.

• Currency Exchange: Available at borders; rates are fair but bring local currency to avoid delays.

Respecting Local Customs

Cultural awareness enhances your border experience:

• Greetings: Use “xin chào” in Vietnam and “sawasdee” in Thailand with a smile.

• Dress: Cover shoulders and knees when near temples post-crossing.

• Behavior: Remain patient in queues; avoid photography in immigration zones.

• Tipping: Not required at borders; small gratitude (20,000 VND / 20 THB) appreciated for helpful staff.

Book your seamless journey with Vietnam Tours or Thailand Tours—only 10% deposit required until 30 days before departure.

1. Self-Guided Border Adventure

• Route: Ho Chi Minh City → Moc Bai → Bavet → Aranyaprathet → Bangkok

• Transport: VIP bus or private transfer

• Cost: $35–$60/person (includes border assistance)

• Tip: Pre-book with Legend Travel Group for guided border support.

2. Legend Travel Group – Vietnam to Thailand Overland Tour

• Duration: 1 day

• Includes: Air-conditioned transport, English-speaking guide, border fee assistance, lunch

• Cost: $89/person

• Departure: Daily from Ho Chi Minh City

• Eco-Note: Carbon-offset vehicles

3. Thailand to Vietnam Overland Journey

• Duration: 1 day

• Includes: Bangkok pickup, border transfer, entry support

• Cost: $85/person

• Departure: Daily from Bangkok

4. Multi-Day Vietnam & Thailand Explorer

• Duration: 5–7 days

• Highlights: Ho Chi Minh City, Mekong Delta, Phnom Penh, Bangkok, Ayutthaya

• Cost: $450–$750/person

• Deposit: Only 10% now, balance 30 days before

• Flexible Payments: 10% deposit, full payment 30 days before departure.

• Expert Guides: Local experts ensure smooth border crossings.

• Sustainable Travel: Eco-friendly transport and community support.

• 24/7 Support: Dedicated team for peace of mind.

Book your Vietnam Travel or Thailand Travel today!

• Dry Season (November–April): Ideal weather, minimal delays.

• Avoid: Tet (Jan/Feb) and Songkran (April) due to crowds.

• Early Morning Crossings: 7:00 AM–9:00 AM for fastest processing.

• Documents: Valid passport (6+ months), visa/e-visa if required, onward ticket.

• Cash: Carry 500,000 VND + 1,000 THB in small bills.

• Luggage: Light pack; borders involve walking.

• Transport: Pre-book with Legend Travel Group to avoid touts.

• Health: Stay hydrated; use sunscreen and mosquito repellent.

• Do I pay to exit Vietnam? Foreigners: ~$8; Vietnamese: Free.

• Is there a fee to enter Thailand? No, for visa-exempt or e-visa holders.

• Can I pay in USD? Yes, but local currency preferred.

• What if I overstay? Fines apply; avoid by planning with Legend Travel Group.

Enhance your journey with eco-conscious options:

• Vietnam to Thailand Eco-Crossing ($89/person, 1 day)

• Thailand to Vietnam Green Route ($85/person, 1 day)

• Indochina Explorer ($450–$750/person, 5–7 days)

Book with 10% deposit at legendtravelgroup.com

Mastering Vietnam and Thailand border fees ensures a smooth, enriching overland adventure. With transparent costs, cultural respect, and Legend Travel Group’s expert support, cross borders with confidence. Enjoy Vietnam Travel or Thailand Travel—deposit just 10% today, pay the rest 30 days before departure. Your seamless journey awaits.

By Legend Travel Group