​Seamless Border Crossing: My Experience with the Moc Bai Run

Date: July 7, 2024
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As a seasoned traveler in Vietnam, I recently completed another successful border run from Saigon to Moc Bai. In my previous posts, I've discussed the benefits of applying for a 1.5-year e-visa while outside of Vietnam, as there are no rules against this. This time, I'd like to share my streamlined approach to the Moc Bai border crossing.

Securing Private Transportation
For this border run, I arranged private car transportation through a contact on Facebook and Zalo. The initial price was 1.5 million VND, but I was able to negotiate it down to 1.350 million VND, or approximately $52 USD, for a round-trip journey with waiting time at the border.

Applying for a Cambodian E-Visa
To save time, money, and potential hassle at the border, I applied for a Cambodian e-visa in advance. This not only allowed me to bypass the need for exact change, but also prevented any possibility of extortion for stamping fees. Additionally, the Cambodian e-visa uses a simple stamp, whereas a visa-on-arrival takes up an entire page in your passport.

Navigating the Borders
At both the Cambodian and Vietnamese borders, I noticed that some travelers were being asked for "donations" by the guards. An Asian couple in front of me, who spoke perfect English, mentioned that they had to pay 50,000 or 100,000 VND at each border. However, I was not asked for any payments at either crossing.

Helpful Resources
On my website, under the "E-Visa" tab, I have provided step-by-step instructions and visual examples to guide travelers through the e-visa application process. This has proven to be particularly useful for those who struggle with navigating the various entry requirements and form fields.

Additionally, I have shared the contact information for the most affordable agents for activities such as 1-day visa fast-track at the airport. These resources can help streamline your travel experience and ensure a smooth journey.

In conclusion, my latest Moc Bai border run was a breeze, thanks to the advanced planning and negotiation of private transportation, as well as the convenience of the Cambodian e-visa. I hope this information helps fellow travelers navigate the border crossing process with confidence and ease.