Overview of Vietnam International Border Crossings (Updated 2026)

Vietnam stretches along 4,639 kilometers of land borders shared with three neighbors: China (1,450 km to the north), Laos (2,161 km along the western flank), and Cambodia (1,028 km in the southwest). The country operates 34 international border gates where riders can cross with motorbikes between these nations. Northern crossings like Huu Nghi and Lao Cai connect directly into Chinese provinces, while Moc Bai serves as the primary gateway for riders heading to Phnom Penh. Western routes through Lao Bao and Nam Can punch through to central Laos. Make sure to have an E-visa before hand unless you’re excepted for a visa to enter Vietnam. This guide covers which checkpoints accept motorcycles, highlights the best crossing points, and shares practical tips for riders navigating paperwork, temporary vehicle imports, and road conditions at each frontier.

Border Region Major Gates Motorbike Access Visa & Permit Notes Best For Riders
Vietnam – China Lao Cai, Huu Nghi, Mong Cai, Dong Dang Allowed with pre-arranged permits only Chinese vehicle permit required in advance
IDP mandatory
No spontaneous crossings
Experienced riders heading to Yunnan or Guangxi
Vietnam – Laos Lao Bao, Na Meo, Nam Can, Tay Trang, Bo Y, Cha Lo Generally accepted for Vietnamese-plated bikes Laos visa must be obtained in advance (most gates)
Temporary bike import issued at border
Border permit may be required
Ho Chi Minh Trail, remote mountains, adventure routes
Vietnam – Cambodia Moc Bai, Xa Mat, Tinh Bien, Le Thanh, Vinh Xuong Easiest crossings for motorcycles Cambodia visa on arrival or e-visa
Vietnam e-visa required unless exempt
Insurance available at border
First-time riders & Phnom Penh routes
General Tips All international gates Arrive 8:00–15:00 for smooth processing Carry originals + photocopies
Cash in USD & local currency
Photograph all stamped documents
Avoid peak hours & holiday congestion

What are the international Checkpoints of Vietnam?

Vietnam maintains strategic crossing points along its northern, western, and southern borders, each serving distinct routes and rider needs. The China frontier offers Huu Nghi (Friendship Gate) near Lang Son for direct access to Nanning, while Lao Cai connects riders to Kunming via Yunnan province. Both handle significant motorcycle traffic but require Chinese vehicle permits arranged beforehand.

Moving west, Lao Bao stands as the busiest Laos crossing, linking Dong Ha to Savannakhet along Highway 9, with Nam Can and Bo Y providing alternative mountain routes into southern Laos.

Cambodia’s border features Moc Bai as the primary gate for Saigon to Phnom Penh runs, processing thousands of bikes monthly. Xa Mat and Tinh Bien offer quieter alternatives with faster processing times. Each gate operates different hours, accepts varying visa types, and has unique requirements for temporary vehicle imports that riders must verify before departure.

Vietnam International border gate - Vietnam has borders between China, Laos and Cambodia

Vietnam’s Border Crossing Procedures (What You’ll need)?

Crossing international borders from / to Vietnam, it requires specific paperwork beyond standard tourist visas. Riders need original vehicle registration, proof of ownership, and valid insurance covering the destination country.

At the gate, present your passport for immigration stamps first, then proceed to customs for vehicle documentation. Officers issue temporary import permits specifying allowed duration and exit points, typically valid 30 days for Cambodia and Laos crossings.

Chinese borders demand pre-arranged vehicle permits through licensed agencies, as spontaneous crossings aren’t permitted. Expect thorough bike inspections checking frame numbers against registration documents. Processing times vary wildly: Moc Bai handles bikes in 30 minutes during off-peak hours, while Lao Cai can stretch to three hours during holidays. Carry multiple photocopies of all documents, as officials retain copies at both exit and entry stations.

Some gates require insurance purchased on-site before allowing passage. Cash in local currency speeds up administrative fees at smaller crossings.

by Vietnamesemotorbiketours.com | Vietnam has numerous international border gates for entry/exit, including major airports (Noi Bai, Tan Son Nhat, Da Nang) and land/river crossings like Huu Nghi, Moc Bai, Lao Cai, Vinh Xuong, allowing e-visa holders access to facilitate tourism, with the government continuously expanding the list. Key land gates connect with China (Huu Nghi, Dong Dang) and Laos (Bo Y, Lao Bao), while major ports and airports offer diverse entry points, all listed on the official e-visa portal.

Vietnam’s Border Crossing 2026 – Best Routes & Tips

Arrive at border gates between 8am and 3pm for smoothest processing, as staff rotations and lunch breaks create delays outside these windows. Carry US dollars in small denominations for unexpected fees, plus local currency for both countries you’re crossing between.

Download offline maps showing alternative routes, as some gates close unexpectedly for national holidays or maintenance without advance notice. Dress conservatively covering shoulders and knees, we heard, sometimes border officials enforce stricter standards than urban areas.

Keep fuel tanks above half-full since gas stations near remote crossings are scarce and overpriced. Photograph all stamped documents immediately after processing, as replacements for lost paperwork involve returning to the original gate.

Join rider forums or Facebook groups for real-time border condition updates from travelers crossing days earlier. Avoid Friday afternoons and Monday mornings when commercial truck traffic peaks. Request clear explanations if officials demand payments not listed on official fee boards posted at entry points.

border gate route quality into Vietnam by Na Meo

2026’s Most Popular Border Checkpoints From / To Vietnam

Moc Bai handles the highest motorcycle volume connecting Ho Chi Minh City to Phnom Penh in Cambodian side, just in under six hours, making it the default route for most riders. Lao Cai draws adventure riders heading into Yunnan’s mountain roads, though Chinese permit requirements limit spontaneous crossings.

Lao Bao processes steady traffic between central Vietnam and Savannakhet, serving as the quickest link to Thailand via Laos. Huu Nghi near Lang Son manages commercial freight but also accommodates tourist bikes with proper documentation. Tinh Bien offers a relaxed alternative to Moc Bai with shorter queues and friendlier staff. Nam Can attracts riders seeking the remote Ho Chi Minh Trail experience into southern Laos.

Xa Mat serves those heading toward Kampong Cham province. Bo Y remains popular for its dramatic mountain scenery despite rough approach roads. Cau Treo connects to Laos Route 8 toward Thakhek. Tay Trang provides access to Dien Bien Phu crossings into northwestern Laos, while Móng Cái handles coastal traffic into Guangxi province with established motorbike crossing protocols.

Check points between Vietnam and China

Lao Cai remains the primary motorcycle gateway into Yunnan province, connecting Sa Pa to Kunming via Hekou on the Chinese side. The crossing handles tourist bikes but demands pre-arranged vehicle permits through Vietnamese travel agencies, typically costing $200-300 for processing.

Huu Nghi (Friendship Gate) near Lang Son serves as the main freight corridor but accepts motorcycles with proper documentation, offering direct routes to Nanning. Móng Cái in Quang Ninh province provides coastal access into Guangxi, popular among riders exploring Halong Bay before continuing north.

All Chinese crossings require International Driving Permits alongside standard paperwork. Dong Dang operates near Huu Nghi as an alternative with slightly less congestion. Processing times average two hours minimum due to strict vehicle inspections. Chinese customs scrutinize electronics and camping gear more thoroughly than southern borders.

Lao Cai Border Gate

Positioned 340 kilometers northwest of Hanoi, Lao Cai connects directly to Hekou across the Red River bridge. This gate processes the highest volume of tourist motorcycles heading into Yunnan province, with daily crossings peaking during dry season months. Riders face mandatory vehicle inspections and insurance verification on both sides. The Vietnamese side operates 7am to 6pm, though arriving before noon avoids afternoon tour bus crowds.

Chinese permits must be secured minimum five days beforehand through registered agencies in Hanoi or Sa Pa. Nearby accommodations and mechanics make this the most rider-friendly northern crossing, with English-speaking fixers available to navigate paperwork complications for standard fees around 500,000 VND.

Mong Cai Border Gate

Located in Quang Ninh province where Vietnam meets Guangxi, Mong Cai check point handles significant cross-border shopping traffic alongside vehicle crossings. The gate sits adjacent to Dongxing city, creating a bustling commercial zone. Motorcycle crossings require the same Chinese permits as other northern gates, but coastal route access makes this popular for riders combining Halong Bay tours with southern China exploration.

Processing proves faster than Lao Cai during peak seasons due to separate lanes for tourists versus commercial traffic. Operating hours run 8am to 5pm Vietnamese time. Currency exchange booths offer competitive rates. The approach road from Halong takes four hours on well-maintained highway, making same-day crossings feasible from coastal starting points.

Huu Nghi Border Gate

Friendship Gate stands 18 kilometers from Lang Son city as Vietnam’s oldest formalized crossing into China, established during French colonial administration. This gate prioritizes freight trucks but accommodates motorcycles through designated processing lanes. The crossing leads directly to Pingxiang and onward to Nanning within three hours. Expect thorough inspections as customs officers check for undeclared goods given the gate’s commercial focus.

Vietnamese side opens 7am to 10pm, offering flexibility for riders facing delays. Facilities include basic restaurants and rest areas, though English signage remains limited. The parallel railway crossing handles significant cargo traffic. Riders report more bureaucratic procedures here compared to Lao Cai, with officials strictly enforcing documentation requirements and multiple verification checkpoints before final exit stamps.

Dong Dang Border Gate

Situated five kilometers from Huu Nghi, Dong Dang operates as a supplementary crossing sharing the same Chinese terminus at Pingxiang. This checkpoint handles overflow traffic when Friendship Gate reaches capacity during holidays or trade fairs. Motorcycle processing follows identical protocols to Huu Nghi, requiring full Chinese vehicle permits and insurance documentation.

The advantage lies in shorter queues, particularly midweek when commercial trucks concentrate at the larger neighboring gate. Operating hours mirror Huu Nghi at 7am to 10pm. The approach road from Lang Son takes 20 minutes through flat terrain. Limited facilities mean riders should carry food and water. Local guides at Lang Son hotels can direct riders to whichever gate shows lighter traffic on crossing day based on real-time conditions.

Check points between Vietnam and Laos

Vietnam shares seven official motorcycle crossings with Laos stretching from northern mountains to southern highlands. Lao Bao dominates as the busiest route, linking Highway 1 near Dong Ha to Savannakhet and onward to Thailand’s Friendship Bridge. Nam Can in Nghe An province offers mid-country access toward Vinh, while Cau Treo connects to Route 8 heading to Thakhek.

Northern options include Tay Trang near Dien Bien Phu and Na Meo serving Son La province. Bo Y in Kon Tum attracts adventurous riders despite challenging approach roads through Central Highlands. These crossings accept e-visas and process Vietnamese bikes without pre-arrangement (we heard many tourist didn’t make it to cross into Laos, means you need a border permit from Vietnam). Most gates operate 7am to 5pm with lunch breaks causing midday slowdowns. Insurance purchased at the border costs roughly $10-15 for 30-day coverage. Road conditions vary dramatically, with some Laos-side routes requiring dirt bike capabilities immediately after crossing. Also, laos visa must be obtained at the Lao embassy, not at the border (Update March 2026).

Tay Trang Border Gate

Located in Lai Chau province near Dien Bien Phu, Tay Trang connects to Laos Route 4 heading toward Muang Khua and Luang Prabang. This remote crossing attracts experienced riders seeking northern Laos mountain routes with minimal traffic. The approach from Vietnamese side follows winding roads through ethnic minority villages.

Operating hours run 7am to 5pm with mandatory lunch closure 11:30am to 1:30pm. Facilities are basic with one small restaurant and limited English spoken. Laos visa on arrival IS NOT as well. The crossing processes fewer than 20 motorcycles daily, meaning paperwork moves quickly but officials strictly verify all documentation. Fuel up beforehand as next reliable station sits 40 kilometers inside Laos territory.

Na Meo Border Gate

Located in Thanh Hoa province, and perhaps the closest to Hanoi (best for those who do regular visa run), Na Meo serves as an alternative northern route into Laos, connecting to Sam Neua in Houaphanh province. The crossing handles light traffic, making it ideal for riders avoiding busier gates.

The Vietnamese approach road runs 180 kilometers from Thanh Hoa city through agricultural valleys. Operating 7am to 11:30am and 1pm to 5pm, this gate closes for extended lunch breaks. Laos side leads to fairly accepted paved road to Sam Nuea. Immigration processing averages 45 minutes with both countries’ officials working from adjacent buildings. Accommodation options exist in nearby Vietnamese border town. Mechanics available on Vietnamese side only. This crossing suits riders planning multi-day explorations of remote northeastern Laos without time pressure.

Nam Can Border Gate

Nam Can in Nghe An province (~260km from Hanoi) links to Nong Haet district in Laos, providing mid-country access between Vinh and Sam Neua. This crossing handles moderate motorcycle traffic from riders following historic Ho Chi Minh Trail routes. The Vietnamese side approach covers 120 kilometers from Vinh city on improving asphalt roads. Operating hours 7am to 5pm with typical lunch slowdowns.

Processing takes under an hour during normal periods. Laos insurance available at crossing for standard rates. The gate sits at lower elevation than northern crossings, making it accessible year-round unlike mountain passes that close during heavy rains. Basic guesthouses operate within five kilometers on both sides. This route attracts history-focused riders as it follows wartime supply corridors with visible bomb craters and abandoned military installations dotting the landscape. Again, Lao visa is NOT available at this border. Apply it in Hanoi at the embassy.

Keo Nua Border Gate

Located in Ha Tinh province, Keo Nua connects Vietnam’s Route 15 to Laos Route 8A heading toward Vinh and Thakhek. This smaller crossing processes limited motorcycle traffic, offering quick passage for riders familiar with border procedures. Operating 7am to 11:30am and 1:30pm to 5pm daily.

The Vietnamese approach runs through rural farmland with occasional potholes requiring attention. Immigration officers handle standard documentation efficiently, though English communication proves challenging. Laos visa on arrival isn’t available too.

The crossing serves riders bypassing busier Cau Treo gate 80 kilometers north. Facilities include one noodle shop and basic restrooms. Nearest accommodation sits 15 kilometers back toward Ha Tinh city. The Laos-side road requires 4×4 vehicles or capable adventure bikes during rainy months.

Lao Bao Border Gate

Vietnam’s busiest Laos crossing sits on Highway 9, connecting Dong Ha to Savannakhet in under three hours. This gate processes hundreds of motorcycles weekly, making it the default choice for riders heading to Thailand via Friendship Bridge. Operating 7am to 7pm with extended hours during peak seasons.

Multiple lanes separate motorcycles from trucks, keeping processing times under 45 minutes typically. Both sides offer currency exchange, restaurants, and repair shops. English-speaking fixers assist with paperwork for small fees. Laos insurance costs 120,000 kip for 30 days. The crossing handles all visa types including e-visas without complications. No Laos visa process at the borer gate. Once crossing into Vietnam, then first 30km is single track, mountain pass with 10-30% hilly ride, drive safe with caution.

La Lay Border Gate

Probably one of the easiest checkpoints if you’re crossing on a Vietnamese plated motorbike. Positioned in Quang Tri province south of Lao Bao, La Lay offers an alternative crossing into Sepon district of Savannakhét province.

This checkpoint handles significantly less traffic, appealing to riders seeking quieter passages. Operating 7am to 5pm with standard lunch breaks. The Vietnamese approach follows Route 9 before branching south through forested terrain. Processing averages 30 minutes given low volume.

Immigration officials maintain strict documentation checks despite relaxed atmosphere. The Laos side connects to rural roads requiring navigation skills as signage proves sparse. This crossing suits experienced riders comfortable with remote conditions. Nearest Vietnamese town with services sits 25 kilometers east. The route provides access to lesser-traveled southern Laos regions without Lao Bao’s commercial traffic and congestion.

Cha Lo International Border Gate

Located in Quang Binh province, Cha Lo connects to Laos Route 12 heading toward Thakhek and Pakse. This mid-level crossing attracts riders exploring central Laos without using overcrowded Lao Bao. Solo riders reported this checkpoint as one of the hassle-free ones to cross with a Vietnamese motorbike. Operating 7am to 6pm daily. The Vietnamese approach runs 70 kilometers west from Dong Hoi through Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park area.

Processing takes 45 minutes to one hour with standard documentation. Laos visa on arrival IS NOT AVAILABLE. The crossing sits near historic Ho Chi Minh Trail sections, drawing history enthusiasts. Basic facilities include small restaurants and restrooms. The Laos-side road offers decent pavement for 50 kilometers before deteriorating toward Thakhek.

Bo Y Border Gate

Vietnam’s most dramatic Laos crossing sits in Kon Tum province at 1,100 meters elevation, connecting to Attapeu province through spectacular Central Highlands scenery.

This remote gate handles adventurous riders only, as approach roads require dirt bike capabilities. Operating 7am to 5pm when weather permits. The Vietnamese side follows 80 kilometers of winding mountain roads from Kon Tum city with sections washing out during monsoons.

Processing moves quickly given minimal traffic, typically under 30 minutes. The Laos side drops through pristine jungle on rough tracks requiring off-road experience. No services exist for 60 kilometers inside Laos. This crossing suits properly equipped riders with mechanical skills and camping gear. The route provides access to remote Bolaven Plateau regions. Laos visa on arrival is available only at this checkpoint.

International checkpoints between Vietnam & Cambodia

Vietnam operates six official international border crossings into Cambodia concentrated along southern and southwestern borders. Moc Bai dominates as the primary route, processing thousands of bikes monthly between Ho Chi Minh City and Phnom Penh in under five hours.

Xa Mat and Tinh Bien offer quieter alternatives with faster processing and friendlier staff. Ha Tien serves coastal riders accessing Kep and Kampot provinces. Vinh Xuong connects Chau Doc to Phnom Penh via riverside roads.

Le Thanh in Gia Lai provides remote highland access. All gates accept e-visas and visa on arrival for most nationalities, with Cambodia charging $30 plus occasional informal fees. Processing typically takes 30-60 minutes. Insurance purchased at borders costs around $10 for 30 days. Roads on both sides maintain decent pavement, making these Vietnam’s most accessible international crossings for standard motorcycles.

Le Thanh Border Gate

Sitting 450 kilometers northeast of Ho Chi Minh City in Gia Lai province, Le Thanh connects Vietnam’s Central Highlands to Cambodia’s Ratanakiri province through mountainous terrain.This remote crossing appeals to adventurous riders seeking off-beaten paths into northeastern Cambodia.

Operating 7am to 5pm with lunch breaks causing midday delays. The approach from Pleiku covers 90 kilometers of winding mountain roads through coffee plantations and minority villages. Processing moves quickly given minimal traffic, averaging 30 minutes for standard documentation.

Cambodia visa on arrival available for $30 plus typical administrative fees (riders call it coffee-money). The Cambodian side leads to rough roads requiring capable adventure bikes, particularly during rainy season. Limited facilities mean carrying fuel and supplies. Nearest reliable accommodation sits back in Pleiku. This crossing suits experienced riders planning routes toward Banlung and onward to Laos.

Moc Bai Border Gate

Just 70 kilometers northwest of Ho Chi Minh City on Highway 22, Moc Bai handles Vietnam’s highest Cambodia-bound crossing traffic. This gate processes direct routes to Phnom Penh in under five hours on excellent pavement.

Operating 7am to 8pm daily with extended hours during holidays. Multiple processing lanes keep wait times under one hour even during peak periods. Currency exchange booths, restaurants, and repair shops line both sides. English-speaking fixers assist with paperwork for 100,000 VND fees.

Cambodia charges $30 visa on arrival plus variable “express fees” that riders can negotiate. However, if you’re entering Vietnam, you’ll need to arrange an e-visa beforehand (Unless your nationality is exempted from a visa). Cambodian E-visas process fastest without additional costs. The crossing serves as default choice for first-time international riders given straightforward procedures and developed infrastructure. Bavet town immediately across offers hotels, ATMs, and fuel stations before continuing to Cambodia’s capital.

Xa Mat Border Gate

About 100 kilometers from Ho Chi Minh City in Tay Ninh province, Xa Mat provides a relaxed alternative to crowded Moc Bai. This crossing connects to Kampong Cham province via Memot on Cambodia’s Highway 7. Operating 7am to 6pm with typical lunch slowdowns. Processing averages 30-45 minutes given lighter traffic volumes. Staff maintain friendlier attitudes compared to busier gates, with less pressure for informal payments. Cambodia visa on arrival costs standard $30.

The approach from Saigon follows Route 22 before branching north through agricultural areas. Cambodian side roads offer decent pavement toward Kampong Cham and Kratie provinces. Limited facilities mean bringing snacks though basic restaurants exist. This gate suits riders avoiding Moc Bai’s commercial atmosphere while accessing northeastern Cambodia regions without adding significant distance.

Tinh Bien Border Gate

Roughly 240 kilometers southwest of Ho Chi Minh City in An Giang province, Tinh Bien connects Chau Doc to Cambodia’s Takeo province near Phnom Den mountain. This crossing handles moderate motorcycle traffic with efficient processing. Operating 7am to 6pm daily. Immigration procedures average 40 minutes with standard documentation.

Staff process e-visas smoothly without complications common at busier gates. The approach follows Mekong Delta flatlands through rice paddies and fish farms. Cambodian side leads to Takeo city within 30 kilometers on paved roads. Currency exchange available though rates favor bringing US dollars.

Basic facilities include noodle shops and restrooms. This gate appeals to riders exploring southern Cambodia or combining with Chau Doc’s floating markets before crossing. Nearest quality accommodation sits back in Chau Doc town, 15 kilometers from the border checkpoint.

Vinh Xuong Border Gate (by boat)

Standing 230 kilometers from Ho Chi Minh City in An Giang province, Vinh Xuong (also known as Sông Tiền)operates as Vietnam’s only water crossing into Cambodia. Riders board vehicle ferries crossing the Mekong River to reach Kaam Samnor on the Cambodian bank.

Operating 7am to 5pm depending on water levels and weather conditions. The ferry costs roughly 100,000 VND per motorcycle including rider. Processing happens at departure and arrival terminals with typical documentation checks. To cross this border, you’ll required a border permit.

Cambodia visa on arrival available at riverside immigration office. Total crossing time including ferry wait and river transit runs 60-90 minutes. The approach from Chau Doc follows riverside roads through traditional Mekong communities. Cambodian side connects to Route 1 heading directly to Phnom Penh. This unique crossing attracts riders seeking authentic Mekong Delta experiences beyond standard road borders.

FAQs: Vietnam Border Countries

Vietnam shares land borders with three countries: China to the north, Laos to the northwest, and Cambodia to the southwest. The country’s eastern and southern coasts face the sea, giving Vietnam over 3,200 kilometers of coastline.

Laos and Cambodia both share river borders with Vietnam. The Mekong River forms part of the border between Vietnam and Cambodia in the south. Several rivers mark sections of the Vietnam-Laos border, including the Nam Ou River and other tributaries in the northern regions. The Red River also flows from China into northern Vietnam near the border area.

No, Vietnam does not offer visa on arrival at land border crossings. You must obtain an e-Visa online before traveling or get a visa from a Vietnamese embassy or consulate. The e-Visa process is straightforward and typically takes 3-5 business days. You’ll only allow to cross if you have an e-visa beforehand and or your nationality is eligible for free visa.

The closest border crossing from Hanoi to Laos is Na Meo, located approximately 280 kilometers west of Hanoi in Thanh Hoa Province. This route takes about 5-6 hours by motorbike and connects to Nam Xoi in Laos. Riders crossing with motorbikes need a border crossing permit issued by Hanoi’s Ministry of Transportation before departure. You’ll also need a Laos visa beforehand, this border doesnt issue a visa o enter Laos.

Conclusion: Border Crossing from / to Vietnam

Vietnam’s 34 international gates offer riders diverse routes across Southeast Asia, from Yunnan’s mountains to Cambodia’s temples and Laos jungle tracks. Each crossing presents unique challenges: Chinese borders demand pre-arranged permits and patience, Laos gates provide straightforward access to remote trails, while Cambodian checkpoints offer the easiest passages with reliable infrastructure.

Success depends on proper documentation, flexible timing, and realistic assessment of your bike’s capabilities versus road conditions ahead. Research current gate operations through rider forums before departure, as conditions shift without warning. Carry extra cash, maintain photocopies of all papers, and approach each crossing with patience. These borders transform routine trips into genuine adventure, connecting three nations through two-wheeled exploration that few travelers experience. Now check if you need a visa to enter Vietnam

About the author

Hamid rides cross-country routes throughout Southeast Asia, specializing in international border crossings, permit acquisition, and visa procedures for adventure motorcyclists navigating Vietnam, Laos, Cambodia, and China’s frontier regions.

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