Vietnam has sharply increased fines for foreigners overstaying
Vietnam has significantly increased penalties for foreigners who exceed their permitted period of stay, with fines now reaching up to VND 40 million (US$1,520) under new government regulations that took effect on December 15, 2025.
The stricter measures, outlined in a newly issued decree replacing a 2021 regulation on administrative violations related to public order and security, aim to strengthen immigration oversight and deter long-term illegal residence, according to Viet Nam News.
Escalating fines based on overstay duration
Under the new rules, foreigners who remain in Vietnam beyond the validity of their temporary residence certificates, residence cards, or approved visa extensions, without authorisation from immigration authorities, will face fines that increase with the length of the violation.
- Under 16 days: VND 500,000 – VND 2 million
- 16 to under 30 days: VND 5 million – VND 10 million
- Over 30 days: Up to VND 15 million
- 60 to under 90 days: Up to VND 20 million
- 90 days to under 6 months: Up to VND 25 million
- 6 months to under 1 year: Up to VND 30 million
- 1 year or more: Up to VND 40 million, double the previous maximum fine
In more serious cases, authorities may also impose deportation for overstays of 16 days or longer, depending on the severity of the violation.
Reporting requirements for foreign visitors
Foreign visitors must present their passports or travel documents to their hotel or host, who is responsible for reporting their stay to local police.
While visitors are not required to report directly to the police, failure to provide accurate information or giving false details may result in fines ranging from VND 3 million to VND 5 million (US$113–192).
Do not overstay your Vietnam visa even by a single day! If you are issued a visa, you must adhere to the Vietnam Immigration Laws. If you remain in Vietnam beyond your authorized period of stay, you could be deported and could face a permanent ban on traveling to Vietnam in the future.
(*) Tips: Please check your visa validity as soon as you arrive in Vietnam and set a reminder for your visa expiration date. To avoid overstaying and the risk of being fined or blacklisted for future trips to Vietnam, we recommend you leave the country 1–2 days before your visa expires.
