Cambodia – Vietnam Border Crossings Essential Information

Travelling between Vietnam and Cambodia by bus is a popular, economical, and adventurous way to explore Southeast Asia. Traveling by bus from Vietnam to Cambodia is an ideal choice for solo travelers and backpackers looking to save money while experiencing the authentic vibe of Southeast Asia. With affordable fares, especially on popular routes like the Hồ Chí Minh to Phnom Penh, this mode of transport allows you to stretch your budget further, freeing up funds for exploring local attractions and savouring authentic cuisine.

Overview of the Vietnam-Cambodia Border Crossings

There are currently seven official border crossings between Cambodia and Vietnam, each with its own unique characteristics. These crossings connect various regions in both countries and cater to different types of travellers. The main border crossings include:

• Prek Chak (Cambodia) – Ha Tien (Vietnam)
• Phnom Den (Cambodia) – Tinh Bien (An Giang, Vietnam)
• Bavet (Cambodia) – Moc Bai (Tay Ninh, Vietnam)
• Trapeing Phlong (Cambodia) – Xa Mat (Tay Ninh, Vietnam)
• Trapeang Sre (Cambodia) – Hoa Lu (Binh Phuoc, Vietnam)
• O Raing (Cambodia) – Bu Prang (Dak Nong, Vietnam)
• Oyadav (Cambodia) – Le Thanh (Gia Lai, Vietnam)

Each crossing offers a different experience. For example, the Bavet (Cambodia) – Moc Bai (Vietnam) border crossing is the most popular and busiest route, especially for travellers directly from Ho Chi Minh to Phnom Penh. On the other hand, crossings like Prek Chak – Ha Tien are often favoured by backpackers and those seeking a less crowded, more relaxed entry, or travelling via a Mekong delta River cruise.

Visa Requirements and Procedures

Before embarking on your bus journey from Vietnam to Cambodia, it’s crucial to understand the visa requirements for crossing the Vietnam-Cambodia Border.

For Cambodian Citizens

• Visa-Free Entry: Cambodian citizens do not require a visa to enter Vietnam for up to 30 days. They simply need to present their passport and fill out an entry and exit form upon arrival at the border.

For Vietnamese Citizens

• Visa-Free Entry: Similarly, Vietnamese citizens can enter Cambodia visa-free for up to 30 days, provided they present their passport and complete the necessary entry and exit form.

For Travelers of Other Nationalities

• Visa Requirement: Citizens of most other countries will require a visa to enter both Vietnam and Cambodia.
• E-Visa Option: The easiest method is to apply for an e-visa online before your trip. Both Vietnam and Cambodia offer e-visas through their respective government websites.

Important Tip: Always obtain visa before traveling. You can check and apply for your Vietnam Visa at this link https://www.vietnam-evisa.org/apply-visa.html 

Transportation Options

There are several transportation options available for crossing the border between Cambodia and Vietnam. The most common methods include buses, taxis, and private cars.

Buses

Buses are the most popular option for crossing the border between Cambodia and Vietnam. There are many bus companies that offer routes between major cities in both countries, making it easy to travel between them. Most buses will stop at the border for immigration procedures, and then continue on to their final destination. It’s important to research different bus companies and choose one with good reviews and a reliable schedule.

Taxis

Taxis are another option for crossing the border, but they can be more expensive than buses. Taxis are a good choice for those who want a more comfortable and convenient journey. However, it’s important to negotiate the price beforehand to avoid being overcharged.

Private Cars

For those who prefer a more personalized experience, hiring a private car is an option. This allows you to have more control over your journey and make stops along the way. However, this option can be quite expensive and may not be suitable for budget travelers.