One-Day Visa Run from Hanoi: Step-by-Step Updated Guide

Last Update: Monday January 05, 2025

If your Vietnam visa is about to expire and you’re currently in Hanoi, a one-day visa run is one of the fastest and most practical solutions. This updated guide explains how to do a visa run from Hanoi, whether it’s better by land or by air, where to go, and how much it costs—all in simple, actionable steps.

Key Takeaways — What You’ll Learn in This Article

  • A one-day visa run from Hanoi is possible, especially by air

  • Air visa runs are faster and more predictable than land

  • Using a trusted service like Vietnam-immi.org minimizes risk

  • Always prepare your new visa in advance

What Is a One-Day Visa Run from Hanoi?

A visa run means exiting Vietnam legally and re-entering with a new visa or visa exemption—often completed within the same day or overnight.

From Hanoi, travelers usually choose:

  • Land visa runs to nearby borders

  • Air visa runs to neighboring countries

The right choice depends on your budget, visa type, and time flexibility.

Hanoi – How Can I Do the Visa Run?

Option 1 – Visa Run by Land (Most Affordable)

Land visa runs from Hanoi typically go through northern borders.

Popular land routes:

  • Hanoi → Lang Son → Huu Nghi Border (Vietnam–China)

  • Hanoi → Lao Cai → Hekou Border (Vietnam–China)

Process:

  1. Travel from Hanoi to the border by bus or private car

  2. Exit Vietnam at the border checkpoint

  3. Enter the neighboring country briefly

  4. Re-enter Vietnam with a new visa or visa exemption

Note: China border visa runs can be complex due to entry rules. Many travelers now prefer air routes for convenience.

Option 2 – Visa Run by Air (Fastest & Easiest)

Flying is currently the most reliable one-day visa run from Hanoi.

Common destinations:

  • Bangkok (Thailand)

  • Vientiane (Laos)

  • Phnom Penh (Cambodia)

Step-by-step:

  1. Fly from Noi Bai International Airport (HAN)

  2. Exit Vietnam immigration

  3. Enter the destination country

  4. Apply or activate a Vietnam e-visa or visa approval letter

  5. Fly back to Hanoi the same day or the next day

⏱️ Duration: Same day or overnight

✔️ Best for: Travelers who want speed, clarity, and less border hassle

Better by Land or by Air – Which Should You Choose?

Comparison Table (Quick View)

Criteria

Land Visa Run

Air Visa Run

Speed

Slower

Fastest

Cost

Cheaper

Higher

Risk

Border rules vary

More predictable

Same-day possible

Rare

Yes

Comfort

Medium

High

 

Conclusion:

  • Choose land if you’re on a tight budget

  • Choose air if you want a true one-day visa run from Hanoi

Simplify Everything with a Visa Service

Instead of managing flights, borders, and paperwork yourself, many travelers use a professional visa agency.

🔗 Recommended service: https://vietnam-immi.org

We  can help with:

  • Urgent Vietnam e-visa

  • Visa approval letters

  • One-day visa run planning

  • Airport and immigration support

Photo: Collected

Whether you need a fast visa, airport fast track, private car, or eSIM, Vietnam-Immi.org is here 24/7 to support your trip.

Whatsapp: +84379522522

Hotline: +84.379.522.522

Email: sales@vietnam-immi.org 

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