How to Cross Hekou-Lao Cai Border between China and Vietnam

This article provides a detailed guide on crossing the Hekou-Lao Cai (河口-老街) border between China and Vietnam, covering essential steps for travelers heading in both directions. It explains the necessary documents, including passports, visas, and approval letters, as well as the border crossing process from China to Vietnam and vice versa. Key tips include advice on currency exchange, SIM card purchase, and transportation options. Additionally, the article outlines the visa application process, highlighting the benefits of applying for a sticker visa and offering practical advice for efficient cross-border travel.

If you’re planning to travel from Vietnam to Yunnan, China, or vice versa, this guide provides detailed instructions on how to cross the Hekou-Lao Cai (河口-老街) border, with useful tips for navigating the process.

Crossing from Vietnam to China at Hekou Border

Documents You Need to Cross the Border

Before you cross into China at Hekou (河口), ensure you have the following documents ready:

• Passport

• Additional visa page (if required)

• Approval letter (for visa on arrival)

• SIM card with data for mobile internet access

Visa and Approval Letter

To enter Vietnam from China at Hekou, you need an additional visa page and an approval letter. It’s recommended to apply for these through platforms such as Taobao or Xiecheng, as electronic visas might not be accepted at this border. Vietnamese authorities may sometimes refuse electronic visas, requiring you to pay extra for a paper visa. Even with the additional visa page, you will still need the approval letter to avoid additional fees.

Important Tip:

If you only have the visa page and no approval letter, and you’re not willing to pay extra, you might face denial of entry. Be persistent until they provide you with the necessary stamp.

Border Crossing Process

1. Clear Chinese Customs: After clearing Chinese customs, cross the bridge to reach Vietnamese customs.

2. Currency Exchange: After passing through Vietnamese customs, you’ll find people outside the gate offering to exchange currency. Be cautious and check the exchange rate before changing money.

3. SIM Card: Once through the Vietnamese customs area, you can buy a local SIM card to ensure you have mobile internet access.

Transportation from the Border

Once you’ve passed through customs, you will enter Lao Cai Province (老街省) in Vietnam. From there, free red taxis (called “little red cars”) will take you to the bus station, just an 8-minute drive away. From there, you can board a bus to Hanoi, which takes around 6 hours.

Bus Experience

The buses to Hanoi are equipped with single beds, offering a comfortable ride. This is a convenient and relaxed way to travel from the border into Vietnam.

Guide to Crossing the Border from China to Vietnam via Hekou

The Unique Advantages of Hekou Border for Travelers

Hekou (河口口岸) serves as an essential land crossing between China and Vietnam. Located just across the Red River from Lao Cai (老街), it is one of the most important border crossings in southwest China, offering easy access to Southeast Asia. Every year, thousands of people pass through Hekou, making it a busy hub for both trade and tourism.

This border crossing allows flexibility in terms of visa applications. You can either apply for a visa in advance or use a visa on arrival (if you’ve pre-arranged the approval letter). However, it’s worth noting that visas obtained in advance (sticker visas) have a higher approval rate and are accepted at all entry points, while the visa on arrival is only available at international airports like Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City.

Visa Application Process

The easiest way to apply for a Vietnamese visa for entering from Hekou is through an official online platform, such as the Paozhengtong mini-program on Alipay. Here’s how to apply:

1. Open Alipay (支付宝) and search for “Paozhengtong.”

2. Go to the mini-program and select “Visa.”

3. Choose “Vietnam” as your destination, select your visa type, and fill in the necessary details.

4. Submit your application and make the payment.

5. Wait for your visa to be mailed to your home address.

The processing time typically takes 3-5 business days, but if you need an urgent visa, you can opt for an expedited service, which could take as little as one day, for an additional fee.

Practical Tips for Cross-Border Travel

When crossing the border at Hekou (河口口岸), remember to carry:

• Your original passport

• A copy of the visa page

• Immigration declaration form

Vietnamese customs allows travelers to bring in 1.5 liters of alcoholic beverages and 400 cigarettes duty-free. Anything above that will incur a duty of 20%-50%. It’s also advisable to exchange your currency for Vietnamese Dong (VND) before crossing the border, as the exchange rates at the border are often better than those at local banks.

For first-time travelers crossing from China into Vietnam at Hekou, there are two great options for further travel:

1. Take the international bus directly to Sa Pa (沙巴), which is just a 2-hour drive away.

2. Experience the unique combination of land and water transport by taking the Red River boat cruise.

Common Issues and How to Avoid Risks

Vietnam has made several recent changes to its visa policies, including the introduction of an electronic visa (ETA) system. However, e-visas may sometimes cause issues at the border, with a rejection rate of about 12%, particularly if processed through unofficial channels. Therefore, it’s advisable to apply for a sticker visa for smoother entry.

If your visa expires while in Vietnam, you may be fined around 500,000 Vietnamese Dong (about 150 RMB) per day. For an extended stay, you can apply for an extension at the local immigration office, which costs around $30 per extension.

Enhanced Efficiency of Hekou Border

As cross-border tourism and trade between China and Vietnam continue to grow, the efficiency of Hekou Border is steadily improving. Travelers can now easily obtain the correct visa and access streamlined services, ensuring a smooth journey across this busy border. By using professional platforms to manage your visa and planning your journey in advance, you can enjoy a hassle-free experience when traveling through this important gateway.