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Can I apply for a Thailand non-O visa in Vietnam and do a border run while waiting for the visa approval?

Sep 2, 2025
12 days ago
Mike *******
ORIGINAL POSTER
Hello. I have a question about applying for a Thailand non-o visa in Vietnam. I have a limited time in Vietnam on their visa. If my non-o e-visa for thailand takes too long, can I enter thailand and then do a border run to Vietnam when the e-visa comes through and come back on the non-o? Anyone have experience with that?
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TLDR : Answer Summary
A user inquired about the possibility of applying for a Thailand non-O visa in Vietnam with limited time on their Vietnamese visa. They wondered if they could enter Thailand and then do a border run back to Vietnam while waiting for their visa to be processed. Responses indicated that while it might be possible to leave and return without issue, it is generally advised to stay in the country of application until the visa is issued. Some users shared their experiences, confirming that visa processing times can be relatively short, but it is best to keep documentation handy for evidence of travel.
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David **********
I wouldn't suggest it. They asked me for further proof of location which included the passport stamp for Vietnam AND my boarding pass for my flight (which thankfully I had kept)

That being said, even with that the processing time was only 5 working days.
Stuart *********
The rule is usually that you must stay in the country you’ve applied at until the visa is issued.

That said some have done exactly as you mentioned and gotten away with it. If issued in Vietnam you don’t necessarily need to return there to activate it. Any border bounce will do.
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