Guides
Vietnam visa run from Hanoi: How to use the Cau Treo border crossing
Cau Treo Border Gate is one of the most frequently used land crossings for travelers who need to leave Vietnam and return with a new visa.
Who should use the Cau Treo border crossing?
This route is particularly suitable for foreigners staying in Hanoi, Thanh Hoa, Nghe An, Ha Tinh, and nearby provinces in Northern and North Central Vietnam.
Compared with international flights, a land-border crossing through Laos is often more affordable and convenient. Many travelers choose this option when their current visa is approaching its expiration date and they need a new visa for Vietnam before continuing their stay.
What to prepare before your trip
Preparing the correct documents in advance is the most important step of a successful visa run.
Make sure you have:
- A valid passport with at least six months of remaining validity.
- An approved Vietnam eVisa for re-entry.
- A Laos visa if required by your nationality.
- A passport photo if you plan to obtain a Laos Visa on Arrival.
- Cash for visa fees, border charges, and transportation expenses.
- A pen for completing immigration forms.
Travelers who require a new visa Vietnam approval should complete the application process several business days before leaving the country
Getting from Hanoi to Cau Treo border gate
Most travelers choose overnight sleeper buses from Hanoi to the border area.
The most common departure point is Nuoc Ngam Bus Station in southern Hanoi. Several transportation companies operate daily services, allowing passengers to travel overnight and arrive near the border the following morning.
Depending on the operator and season, ticket prices generally range from 250,000 VND to 500,000 VND. Private vehicles are also an option, although buses remain the most popular choice due to convenience and cost.
Crossing the border: Step-by-step process
The border procedure is relatively straightforward when all required documents have been prepared in advance.
> Step 1: Exit Vietnam
Present your passport at the Vietnamese immigration checkpoint and receive an exit stamp.
> Step 2: Enter Laos
Proceed to the Laos checkpoint and complete entry procedures. If required, apply for a Visa on Arrival and obtain an entry stamp.
> Step 3: Exit Laos
Complete departure formalities and receive an exit stamp before returning to Vietnam.
> Step 4: Re-enter Vietnam
Present your passport and approved Vietnam eVisa at the Vietnamese immigration checkpoint. Once approved, you will receive a new entry stamp and may continue your stay in Vietnam.
International land border gate connecting Vietnam and Laos.
Important reminders before returning to Vietnam
Several common mistakes can cause unnecessary delays during a visa run.
- Vietnam does not issue visas directly at land border crossings.
- A valid and approved Vietnam eVisa must be obtained before attempting re-entry.
- Travelers may apply for a new eVisa while still inside Vietnam.
- Check all passport and visa information carefully before departure.
- Carry printed copies of important travel documents whenever possible.
A successful visa run depends on having an approved visa ready before you return to Vietnam.
Whether you are applying for the first time, dealing with an urgent situation, or unsure which visa type suits your trip. Our team is available 24/7 to assist with any visa-related query, from standard applications to emergency processing.
- Phone/WhatsApp: (+84) 856 598 868
- Email: info@simplevietnamvisa.com
Frequently Asked Questions
Visa run by road requires foreigners to exit from Vietnam to a neighboring country through the land border gate with Vietnam such as Laos/Cambodia/Thailand/China, and then re-enter through that land border gate.
Travelers must exit through the port specified in their e-visa application (Noi Bai Airport, Moc Bai land border).
