Can I get a visa on arrival at a land border?

No. Visa on arrival is only available at international airports. You must have your E-visa approved before arriving at a land border.

What if my bus driver takes my passport?

Avoid giving your passport to bus staff. Keep it on your person at all times and handle your own immigration processing to ensure you are not left behind or scammed.

Crossing Vietnam's Land Borders Without a Hitch

To cross into Vietnam by land, you must have an E-visa printed on paper and enter only through designated international border gates. Do not arrive at a local crossing, as they will deny entry to foreign passport holders regardless of your visa status.

Verify your port of entry. When applying for your Vietnam E-visa, you must select your exact border crossing point. If you change your plans and arrive at a different border gate, you will be denied entry.
Print your E-visa. Digital copies are often rejected. Print two physical copies of your E-visa approval document; one for the border guards and one for your own records.
Prepare cash for the 'service fee'. While not official, border guards often request a small 'processing' or 'stamp' fee (usually $1–$5 USD) in cash. Keep a few clean, crisp US dollar bills tucked away for this.
Navigate the two-office process. Exit the country you are leaving (e.g., Cambodia or Laos) at their exit booth, then walk or take the local shuttle to the Vietnamese immigration office. Do not leave the 'no man's land' area until your passport is stamped.

Can I get a visa on arrival at a land border?: No. Visa on arrival is only available at international airports. You must have your E-visa approved before arriving at a land border.
What if my bus driver takes my passport?: Avoid giving your passport to bus staff. Keep it on your person at all times and handle your own immigration processing to ensure you are not left behind or scammed.