Traveling to Vietnam from Thailand
Whether you’re planning a short visit, a visa-related trip, or an extended stay, understanding the best routes from Thailand to Vietnam can make your travel experience much smoother and prevent costly disruptions.
Continue reading to learn how to get to Vietnam from Thailand, the steps to secure a visa if you need one, and what preparations to make before your adventure.
How to Get to Vietnam from Thailand
Vietnam is easy to reach from Thailand, with several options available depending on your travel style and schedule. You can choose to fly or cross the border by bus or train, with both methods offering their own benefits.
While it is possible to get to Vietnam from Thailand by boat, these involve river or ocean cruises. There are no major ferries or other public sea routes for large-scale passenger transportation.
How to Reach Vietnam From Thailand
Flying is the fastest way to travel between Thailand and Vietnam. Numerous flights operate daily, and budget airlines like VietJet Air and AirAsia offer affordable options. You can book flights departing from major Thai airports in Bangkok, Chiang Mai, or Phuket, making it a convenient choice.
Most flights take you to Vietnam’s major cities including Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, and Da Nang. With a flight time of just 1–2 hours, this is the best option for travelers looking to save time and start exploring as quickly as possible.
What to Know About Land Border Crossings from Thailand to Vietnam
If you prefer to travel by land, you can use buses or trains, though there are no direct routes between Thailand and Vietnam. Bus routes often pass through Laos or Cambodia, allowing you to stop and explore additional destinations along the way. For example, buses from Bangkok may head through Phnom Penh in Cambodia before reaching Ho Chi Minh City or go via Vientiane in Laos toward Hanoi. These journeys can take 20 to 40 hours, depending on the route and stops.
Trains require multiple connections, as there’s no direct rail link. A common route involves taking a train from Bangkok to Nong Khai, crossing into Laos, and continuing onward by bus or train toward Vietnam. While these methods are slower, they can be more affordable and allow you to see more of the region.
How to Get a Vietnamese Tourist Visa
Traveling to Vietnam has become more convenient with recent changes to visa policies. Vietnam now offers e-visas for citizens of all countries and territories, allowing for a stay of up to 90 days with multiple entries.
Vietnam E-Visa
The e-visa is one of the simplest options for travelers. You can apply online through the official website of the Vietnam Immigration Department. The process involves filling out an application form, uploading a passport photo, and paying the required fee. Once your application is approved, you’ll receive your e-visa by email, which you can print and use for entry.
The e-visa is accepted at 13 international airports, 16 land border gates, and 13 sea border gates, giving travelers flexibility in planning their arrival and departure points. This option is suitable for both short-term tourists and those planning longer stays of up to 90 days.
Vietnam Visa Exemptions
If you’re from one of the countries eligible for visa exemption, including Thailand, Cambodia, and Malaysia, you can enter Vietnam without a visa for a limited period. However, if you plan to stay longer than the allowed time, you will need to apply for an e-visa or another type of visa.
What to Do Before Traveling to Vietnam from Thailand
Getting ready for your trip from Thailand to Vietnam doesn’t have to be complicated. Start by taking a quick look at your passport. Make sure it’s valid for at least six months from the date you plan to arrive, so you won’t run into any issues with your visa.
Next, confirm whether you need a tourist visa based on your nationality and travel plans. If a visa is required, decide whether to apply for an e-visa or visit a Vietnamese Embassy or Consulate in Thailand. You should do this a few days before going to Vietnam to avoid any issues or complications. Check the local embassy to see which visas or entry programs your nationality qualifies for.
It’s also a good idea to book your transportation ahead of time. Whether you’re flying or traveling by bus or train, buying your tickets early can save you time and money. If you’re planning to cross the border by land, research the specific requirements and checkpoints to avoid any delays.
Last but not least, check for the latest up-to-date news. Also, check the current weather in Vietnam and pack accordingly, as conditions can vary widely in the many regions and seasons the country has. Another good idea is to check the currency rates as exchange rates might change. If you’re on medication, don’t forget your medical papers so that you won’t face any serious issues at immigration, as the government there takes drug trafficking very seriously.
Securing a Return Trip to Thailand
If you plan on returning to Thailand after your trip to Vietnam, make sure your visa status allows for seamless re-entry. Depending on your visa type, you might need a re-entry permit to keep it valid. You can apply for this permit at your local immigration office or at major international airports in Thailand before leaving.
There are two types of Thailand re-entry permits: single re-entry for a one-time trip and multiple re-entry for frequent travel. Having the right permit ensures your current visa remains valid when you come back to Thailand.
If you travel frequently or want to avoid the hassle of repeatedly applying for permits, consider a long-term, multiple-entry Thai visa. Popular options include the Destination Thailand Visa (DTV Visa Thailand), the Long-Term Resident Visa (LTR Visa Thailand), and the Thailand Elite Visa. These visas allow you to leave and return to Thailand freely without requiring a re-entry permit, making them ideal for expats or frequent travelers.
Contact Siam Legal for Professional Assistance
Make your trip to Vietnam easy and stress-free by planning ahead and having the right documents in place. If you need help with Thailand visas, our team is here to assist. From visa applications and extensions to re-entry permits, we handle the details, so you can focus on enjoying your travels.
Contact Siam Legal today for a comfortable experience in both Thailand and Vietnam without worrying about immigration problems.
Category: Travel
