Over the weekend I went Phnom Penh to get some importation documents certified by the VN Trade Commissioner and I waited in the Consulate waiting room. Whilst there I heard the following visa applications made.
Party 1:
Applicant: I/P Status: Visa Renewal Request: 1 year multi Biz/Tourist Result: Denied, 6 mo multi Biz Cost: $124
Party 2:
Applicant: I/P Status: First Request: 1 year multi Biz Result: Denied, 6 mo multi Biz Cost: $124
Party 3:
Applicant: I/P Status: First Request: 90 day Tourism Result: Granted Cost: $90
Party 4:
Applicant: I/P Status: First Request: 30 day Tourism Result: Granted Cost: $30
Party 5:
Applicant: I/P Status: First, E-letter Request: Denied visa @ border Result: granted OK against letter at PP Cost: $30
On return bus journey another visa applicant had been given a 1 year tourist visa, using a PP agent, but at the border it was reduced to 6-months. The border immigration police said it was 'illegal' - other passengers, including myself, heard the conversation. A VN female passenger spoke to the guard and the explanation was 'new regulations'. I saw the guys passport on the bus and the visa form had given him an exit date on 2013 Feb 12.