Discover 2025 guidelines for extending a Vietnam tourist visa. Learn eligibility, documentation, application steps, processing time, and key tips to stay legally longer.
1. Overview: Vietnam Tourist Visa Extension in 2025
In 2025, tourist visas for Vietnam can be extended for stays of 15 or 30 days (for single entry) via authorized travel agencies or at Immigration Offices in Hanoi, HCMC, Da Nang My Vietnam Visa. Extensions apply only to tourism purposes and remain the simplest option to legally prolong your stay.
2. Eligibility & Requirements
To qualify for extension:
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Valid tourist visa (typically single-entry, 15–30 days)
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Passport valid for at least 6 months with 2 blank pages My Vietnam Visavietnamconsulateinhouston.org
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Sponsored by a guaranteed travel agency or tourism host in Vietnam My Vietnam Visa
3. Required Documents
You (or your agent) must prepare:
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Scanned copy of passport with minimum 2 blank pages
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Copy of current tourist visa
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Proof of temporary residence (hotel or accommodation registration)
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Completed NA5 application form for visa extension
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Copy of the sponsoring agency’s travel license or guarantee documentation My Vietnam Visa
4. Step-by-Step Application Process
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Submit all required documents to a licensed Vietnamese travel agency.
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The agency will forward your application to the relevant Immigration Department.
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Pay the extension fee.
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Wait approximately 5–8 working days for processing.
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Return to collect your passport and find the extended visa stamp inside My Vietnam Visa.
5. Processing Time & Fees
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Processing typically takes 5–8 working days, depending on service provider and urgency My Vietnam Visa.
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Fees vary by agency, visa type, and optional expedited processing.
6. Important Tips
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Apply at least one week before visa expiry to avoid overstaying fines.
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Confirm that your visa type is eligible for extension (e-visa may require a new application rather than extension).
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Use reputable agencies to ensure smooth processing and avoid scams.
7. Recent Visa Policies (2025 Updates)
Vietnam has expanded visa exemption policies in 2025:
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Visitors from 12 countries (Germany, France, Italy, Spain, UK, Russia, Japan, South Korea, Denmark, Sweden, Norway, Finland) enjoy visa-free entry for up to 45 days (from March 15, 2025 to March 14, 2028) Vietnam TourismMy Vietnam Visa.
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Additional exemptions for citizens of Poland, Czechia, and Switzerland under a tourism stimulus program from March 1 to December 31, 2025 My Vietnam Visa.
These exemptions are not extendable; travelers who need to stay beyond the allowed exemption period must leave Vietnam and may consider reentry or standard visa procedures.
Summary Table
Section | Key Points |
---|---|
Eligibility | Tourist visa, valid passport, sponsor agency |
Documents Required | Passport copy, current visa, NA5 form, accommodation proof, sponsor license |
Processing Time & Fees | Usually 5–8 working days; costs vary by agency & urgency |
Application Steps | Submit → Agency processes → Approval → Collect extended visa |
2025 Policy Highlights | Visa exemptions for certain countries; extension still necessary for others |
Best Practices | Apply early, verify eligibility, use trusted agents, watch for overstaying |
FAQ – Vietnam Tourist Visa Extension 2025
1. Can I extend a Vietnam e-visa?
Not always. In 2025, most e-visas cannot be extended inside Vietnam. Travelers often need to exit and reapply for a new e-visa. However, some agencies may arrange special cases depending on your nationality and immigration policy updates.
2. How many times can I extend my tourist visa?
Normally, you can extend once or twice, depending on your current visa type and total length of stay. Immigration officers decide on a case-by-case basis.
3. What happens if I overstay my visa?
Overstaying results in fines starting from $25 for 1–3 days and higher for longer periods. You may also face difficulties with future visa applications. Always apply for an extension before your visa expires.
4. Can I extend a visa exemption?
No. Visa exemptions (e.g., 45-day free entry for certain countries) cannot be extended. If you need more time, you must leave Vietnam and re-enter with a valid visa.
5. How fast can I get an urgent tourist visa extension?
Some agencies, including Vietnam Visa Easy, can process urgent tourist visa extensions in 1–3 working days for an additional fee.
6. Where do I apply for an extension in Vietnam?
Applications are handled at the Immigration Department in Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, or Da Nang through a licensed visa agency. Direct walk-in applications from foreigners are not accepted without sponsorship.