The small print in Vietnam's e-visa rule means $20 daily fines for overstays

Vietnam’s e-visa rules still tie entry and exit to the dates printed on the approval letter. Travelers must enter on or after the listed entry date and leave by the exit date, with the stay counted as calendar days between those dates, inclusive.

The small print in Vietnam's e-visa rule means $20 daily fines for overstays

A 30-day visa runs from the entry date to 29 days later; a 90-day visa runs to 89 days later. Entering late shortens the stay, while arriving early can lead to denial by airlines or border officers. The rule is being enforced more strictly under Decree 59/2026/ND-CP, which took effect April 1.

Overstays now carry fines starting at 500,000 VND a day or about $20, for up to 3 days. Penalties rise to 1,250,000 VND a day, about $50 and longer violations can bring detention or deportation.

Who feels the impact

The rule applies to all e-visa holders, including tourists, short-term visitors and digital nomads making repeat entries. It matters most for travelers who book flights close to the approved dates, since the visa doesn't adjust if plans change.

Repeat overstays can lead to deportation or blacklisting, according to the enforcement rules. That makes the printed dates the only dates that count.

What travelers need to do

Applicants must use evisa.gov.vn, choose the exact entry date and port and upload a passport with at least 6 months validity plus a photo. Fees are $25 for single-entry visas and $50 for multiple-entry visas and they are non-refundable.

Print the approval letter and carry it at the border. If the trip changes after approval, travelers have to reapply. For more country coverage, see our visa updates and read our full Vietnam guide for the complete picture.