How much is the penalty for overstaying in Vietnam?

Consequences of Overstaying in Vietnam

Vietnam’s immigration laws strictly regulate the duration of foreign citizens’ stay within the country. Overstaying beyond the permitted period can result in significant penalties.

Financial Penalties

The penalty for overstaying in Vietnam is a monetary fine. The amount varies depending on the length of the overstay:

• For overstays of 42 days or less: VND 500,000 (approximately USD 22)
• For overstays of 43-90 days: VND 1,000,000 (approximately USD 44)
• For overstays of 91-180 days: VND 2,000,000 (approximately USD 88)
• For overstays of 181-365 days: VND 3,000,000 (approximately USD 132)
• For overstays of more than 365 days: VND 40,000,000 (approximately USD 1,760)

These fines are payable at the airport upon departure or at an immigration office. Failure to pay the fine may lead to further consequences.

Additional Penalties

In addition to financial penalties, overstayers may face other severe consequences:

• Blacklisting: Individuals who overstay may be blacklisted and barred from entering Vietnam for a period of up to five years.
• Forceful Deportation: Persistent overstayers may be subject to forceful deportation, meaning they will be escorted out of Vietnam by immigration authorities.
• Criminal Charges: In extreme cases, overstaying can lead to criminal charges and imprisonment.

Consequences of Blacklisting

Being blacklisted in Vietnam can have far-reaching implications:

• Inability to enter Vietnam for a specified period
• Denial of visa applications to other countries
• Negative impact on future employment and travel opportunities

Preventing Overstays

To avoid the consequences of overstaying, it is crucial to adhere to the following guidelines:

• Check the validity of your visa upon arrival
• Apply for a visa extension if necessary, before your current visa expires
• Monitor the number of days remaining on your visa

If you find yourself overstaying unintentionally, it is advisable to contact the nearest immigration office immediately to regularize your status and avoid severe penalties.