90 Day Visa Run Saigon: Everything You Need to Know

If you're living or traveling in Vietnam, you've likely heard the term 'visa run.' For those staying long-term, a 90-day visa run in Saigon is a practical solution to extend your stay without overstaying your visa. Whether you're a digital nomad, expat, or frequent traveler, this guide covers the Moc Bai border crossing, costs, timings, and tips to make your run smooth and stress-free.

Why Choose a 90-Day Visa Run from Saigon?

Vietnam offers various visa options, but many travelers opt for a 90-day visa due to its balance of cost and convenience. A visa run involves exiting Vietnam and re-entering with a new visa, typically at a land border. Saigon's proximity to Moc Bai border (about 70 km) makes it a popular choice. Benefits include:

• Cost-effective: Avoid expensive flights to neighboring countries.
• Time-efficient: Complete the run in half a day (6-8 hours total).
• Flexibility: Get a fresh 90-day tourist visa or business visa on arrival.
• No language barrier: Border staff are accustomed to handling visa runs.

Moc Bai Border Crossing: Your Go-To for 90-Day Visa Runs

Moc Bai is the busiest land border between Vietnam and Cambodia, located in Tay Ninh Province. It's the closest exit point from Saigon, making it ideal for a same-day visa run. Here's what you need to know:

• Distance from Saigon: ~70 km, about 1.5-2 hours by car or bus.
• Operating hours: Open daily from 7:00 AM to 10:00 PM (Vietnam time).
• Visa on arrival: Cambodia offers visa on arrival for most nationalities ($30 USD, passport photo required).
• Cost: Round-trip transport from Saigon: 500,000-800,000 VND ($20-35 USD) by shared van; private car: 1,500,000-2,500,000 VND ($65-110 USD).
• Total time: Usually 4-6 hours for the entire process, including waiting.

Step-by-Step: How to Do a 90-Day Visa Run from Saigon

Follow these steps for a successful visa run:

• 1. Prepare documents: Valid passport (6+ months), 2 passport photos, visa approval letter (if using a service), and cash (USD or VND).
• 2. Choose transport: Book a shared van or private car via a visa run service like saigonvisarun.com. They handle logistics and border procedures.
• 3. Depart early: Leave Saigon by 6:00-7:00 AM to avoid midday heat and queues.
• 4. Exit Vietnam: Complete exit formalities at Moc Bai (stamp out).
• 5. Enter Cambodia: Cross to Bavet border, get Cambodia visa on arrival (if needed), then re-enter Vietnam with your new visa.
• 6. Return to Saigon: Head back, arriving by early afternoon.

Cost Breakdown for a 90-Day Visa Run from Saigon

Here's a typical cost estimate (per person, in VND and USD):

• Transport (shared van): 500,000-800,000 VND ($20-35 USD)
• Transport (private car): 1,500,000-2,500,000 VND ($65-110 USD)
• Cambodia visa on arrival: $30 USD (approx. 700,000 VND)
• Vietnam visa approval letter: $10-25 USD (via agency, if not pre-arranged)
• Stamp fees: None at Vietnamese border; Cambodia may charge $1-2 for processing
• Total range: $50-170 USD per person, depending on transport and visa type

Visa Options After Your Run: What You Can Get

After exiting and re-entering, you can obtain a new visa. Common options include:

• 90-day single-entry tourist visa: Valid for 90 days, one entry only. Cost: $25-50 USD (via agency).
• 90-day multiple-entry tourist visa: Allows multiple entries. Cost: $50-80 USD.
• Business visa (1-year, multiple-entry): Requires a company sponsor. Cost: $100-200 USD.
• Visa exemption: Some nationalities (e.g., UK, Germany) get 15-45 days visa-free; can be extended once.

Tips for a Smooth 90-Day Visa Run from Saigon

Maximize your experience with these pro tips:

• Book a service: Use saigonvisarun.com for door-to-door transport, visa assistance, and guaranteed same-day return.
• Bring snacks and water: Moc Bai has limited food options; pack light meals.
• Dress comfortably: Wear light clothing and walking shoes; you'll walk between counters.
• Have exact cash: USD is preferred for Cambodia visa; small bills help.
• Check your visa validity: Ensure your current visa hasn't expired before the run; overstays complicate things.
• Avoid weekends: Weekdays are less crowded; border queues can be long on Saturdays.

Frequently Asked Questions About 90-Day Visa Runs in Saigon

Alternatives to a 90-Day Visa Run from Saigon

If a land border run isn't ideal, consider these options:

• Flight to Cambodia (Phnom Penh): Faster but more expensive ($100-200 round trip).
• Flight to Bangkok: Another popular choice; costs $150-300.
• Visa extension at immigration: Available for some visa types (e.g., 1-month extension for $50-80).
• E-visa renewal: Some nationalities can apply for a new e-visa online, but you must exit to activate it.

Comparison: 90-Day Visa Run Options from Saigon