Vietnam raises fines for visa overstays as new decree takes effect

Vietnam has sharply increased fines for foreigners who overstay their permitted period of residence, with penalties now reaching up to VNĐ40 million ($1,520), under new government regulations set to take effect on December 15, 2025.

The stricter measures are outlined in Decree 282, which replaces the 2021 decree governing administrative penalties related to public order and security. The new rules stipulate that foreigners who remain in Vietnam beyond the validity of their temporary residence certificates, residence cards, or approved extensions—without authorization from immigration authorities—will face fines that escalate according to the length of the overstay, Viet Nam News reports.

Short overstays of fewer than 16 days will continue to incur fines ranging from VNĐ500,000 to VNĐ2 million ($19–$76). Longer overstays carry progressively higher penalties:

• 16–30 days: VNĐ5–10 million ($190–$380)
  
  

• 30–60 days: up to VNĐ15 million ($570)
  
  

• 60–90 days: up to VNĐ20 million ($760)
  
  

• Up to six months: up to VNĐ25 million ($950)
  
  

• Six months–1 year: up to VNĐ30 million ($1,140)
  
  

• Over one year: up to VNĐ40 million ($1,520), double the previous maximum
  
  

Authorities may also impose deportation on foreigners who overstay by 16 days or more, with decisions made on a case-by-case basis depending on the nature and severity of the violation. Deliberate overstays can also affect future entry into Vietnam.

Hà Nội’s Immigration Office has urged foreign residents to closely monitor the validity of their residence documents and complete extensions on time.

The government has also reminded hotels, employers, and other organizations hosting foreign nationals of their obligation to verify residence documents and report any suspected overstays to local police. Failure to comply may result in penalties for the host organizations themselves.

Vietnamese residents are likewise encouraged to report cases of illegal residence or suspected immigration violations to local authorities, as part of broader efforts to maintain public order.

By Vafa Guliyeva