Crossing The Border With A Motorbike Between Vietnam And Laos

You can take a motorbike between Vietnam and Laos. As far as we know you cannot take a Lao-plated bike into Vietnam unless you are the registered owner of the motorbike. The two countries share 6 international border crossings.

Popular Border Crossings for Motorcycles from Vietnam to Laos

* Sop Hun / Tay Trang

The Northern-most border in between Muang Khua on the Lao side, and Dien Bien Phu in the Vietnamese side, we have been told that this border crossing is either not possible, or expensive, with a motorbike. The guys who we bought our motorbikes off of in Luang Prabang tried to cross the border here and were not permitted to exit Vietnam with them. We have also heard from other riders that when they rode to this border crossing the immigration officials tried to extort a large amount of money from them.

* Na Maew (Na Meo) / Nam Xoi

This border crossing near the Lao town of Sam Neua allows for taking Vietnamese-plated bikes in between countries. When exiting Vietnam you are required to pay US$20 for an ‘import form’ which is supposedly meant to be handed back to customs when you leave Laos with your bike. They also charge a very inflated price for a Lao visa (US$45). As of January 2015, the road on the Vietnamese side is in a terrible state, with very thick mud making the journey quite hazardous. Leave yourself plenty of daylight hours if trying to make this crossing.

Procedures: The process is similar to Lao Bao, but be prepared for more challenging road conditions. Ensure you have all necessary documents and arrive during operating hours to avoid delays.

Challenges: Road conditions can be rough, and weather can impact travel. Prepare for muddy and uneven terrain.

* Nam Can / Nam Khan

In between the large towns of Phonsavan in Laos and Vinh in Vietnam, the Nam Can border crossing is open to international tourists. We met two guys in January 2015 who took their Vietnamese motorbikes from Laos back into Vietnam at this crossing with no problems.

* Nam Phao / Cau Treo

A convenient crossing point near Vinh and Lak Xao in Laos, we have also heard stories of people successfully crossing at this border. We have not met anyone who has done this personally though.

* Dansavanh / Lao Bao

This border crossing is not too far from the city of Hue in Vietnam. We have no credible information on the possibility of crossing the border with a motorbike at Lao Bao, although we have heard stories that it is possible. Personally we would not hesitate in attempting this border crossing ourselves.

Procedures: To cross at Lao Bao/Dansavanh, you need to approach the border early to avoid long queues. Ensure you have all required documents, including your passport, visa, and motorcycle registration papers. At the Vietnamese side, submit your exit forms and obtain an exit stamp. Proceed to the Laos side for visa on arrival processing and obtain a temporary import permit for your motorcycle.

Fees and Documents: Typical fees include visa fees (around $35-$45) and import permit fees. Ensure you have sufficient cash, as card payments are often not accepted.

* Bo Y / Ngoc Hoi

This border crossing is between the major towns of Attapeu in Laos and Kon Tum in Vietnam. It is a remote crossing, with the road on the Laos side being a beautiful mountain pass. Watch out for logging trucks on this road. We crossed from Laos into Vietnam at Bo Y with no problems. The border officials in Laos and Vietnam did not ask for any bribes, fees or extra money to cross. No one asked for the import permits that came with our bikes.

Procedures: This crossing involves navigating through steep and narrow paths. Ensure your motorcycle is well-maintained and capable of handling rugged terrain.

Tips: Travel in groups if possible and carry essential supplies, as services can be sparse along this route.

Step-by-Step Guide to Border Crossing Procedures

Approaching the Border

Timing: Aim to arrive at the border early in the morning to avoid long waits. Border crossings can get crowded, and processing times can vary.

Navigation: Use reliable maps or GPS devices to find the border crossing points. Familiarize yourself with the route beforehand.

Completing Exit Procedures in Vietnam

Customs Declaration: Fill out customs declaration forms and declare your motorcycle and other valuable items. Ensure all information is accurate to avoid issues.

Exit Stamps: Obtain exit stamps from Vietnamese officials. Be prepared to answer questions about your travel plans.

Entering Laos

Visa on Arrival (VoA): Complete the visa on arrival process by filling out the visa application form, providing a passport-sized photo, and paying the visa fee. This process usually takes about 15-30 minutes.

Temporary Import Permit: Obtain a temporary import permit for your motorcycle. This involves filling out forms and paying any applicable fees.

Customs and Immigration: Complete final checks with customs and immigration officials on the Laos side. Ensure all paperwork is in order.

FAQ: Frequently Asked Questions about Vietnam to Laos Motorbike Trip

What Documents Are Required for Crossing the Border?

Answer: You need a valid passport, visa, motorcycle registration papers, insurance documents, and any necessary permits for your motorcycle.

How Much Are the Border Crossing Fees?

Answer: Fees vary depending on the border crossing point, usually ranging from $20 to $50. Check with the specific crossing for exact amounts.

Can I Use My Motorcycle Insurance from Vietnam in Laos?

Answer: Yes, if it covers international travel. Otherwise, you may need to purchase additional insurance for Laos.

Are There Any Specific Safety Tips for Riding in Laos?

Answer: Be cautious of road conditions, wildlife, and local driving practices. Always wear protective gear and ride defensively.

For comprehensive and reliable motorbike tours, consider using the services offered by Indochina Motorbike Tour. They provide detailed information on border crossings, necessary documents, and safety tips, ensuring your trip from Vietnam to Laos is smooth and enjoyable.