Overland border crossings in Southeast Asia each have their own visa quirks — some offer visas on arrival, others require an e-visa in advance, and a few have had well-documented scam issues worth knowing about beforehand.
Visa rules and border-specific scams change — always check the latest requirements for your nationality before crossing, especially at Poipet and other land borders known for overcharging.
Thailand
Most Western nationalities can enter visa-free for 30-60 days by air or land, though land border entries occasionally have shorter allowances than air entries.
- Check current visa-free duration for your passport before travelling
- Multiple land entries in a short period can sometimes trigger extra scrutiny
Cambodia
Most nationalities need a visa — available as an e-visa online before travel (recommended) or on arrival at land borders and airports.
- E-visa avoids on-the-spot border hassle and inflated ‘service fees’
- Poipet border is known for scams — stick to official visa counters only
Laos
Visa on arrival is available for most nationalities at major border crossings and the airport.
- Bring passport photos and USD cash for on-arrival visas to avoid delays
- Fees can vary slightly by crossing point
Vietnam
Most nationalities need an e-visa arranged in advance online; a few nationalities get visa-free entry for short stays.
- E-visas typically take a few business days to process — apply well ahead
- Check which land border crossings accept e-visa entry, as not all do
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Poipet border scam?
Unofficial touts near the Thailand-Cambodia Poipet crossing sometimes pose as visa agents and overcharge for Cambodian visas — always use the official visa office and pay only the listed fee.
Do I need passport photos for visas on arrival?
Yes, for several countries (notably Laos) — carry a few spare passport photos when doing an overland trip.
Is it cheaper to get visas in advance or on arrival?
It varies by country — e-visas sometimes carry a small service fee but save time and hassle at the border compared to on-arrival processing.
Related Guides
- Backpacking Southeast Asia: Route Planning Guide
- Bangkok to Siem Reap: Transport Guide
- 4000 Islands to Siem Reap: Border Guide
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