Vietnam eVisa Application: Complete Step-by-Step Guide
The Vietnam eVisa application is the most convenient way to get a visa before entering the country. You don't need to visit an embassy or prepare physical paperwork. Everything can be done online with just a few documents and a simple form.
This guide covers everything about applying for a Vietnam eVisa, including the necessary documents and how long the process will take. If you are planning a trip to Vietnam for any reason, this will be your go-to resource.
What is a Vietnam eVisa?
A Vietnam eVisa is an official electronic visa issued by the Vietnam Immigration Department. It permits foreigners to enter and travel within the country for purposes such as tourism, business, or short-term family visits. The Vietnam eVisa application process is completed entirely online. Eligible travelers can stay in Vietnam for up to 90 days per entry, depending on their selected visa type.
As of August 15, 2023, the eVisa policy has been extended to citizens of all countries and territories. Applicants can request a single-entry or multiple-entry visa, with each stay valid for up to 90 days. The eVisa grants access through 42 approved border gates, including major airports, seaports, and land crossings.
Vietnam eVisa Requirements
To be eligible for a Vietnam eVisa, applicants must meet the following conditions:
- Be outside of Vietnam at the time of application.
- Hold a valid passport that is:
- Won’t expire within 6 months from your arrival date
- Includes a minimum of two unused pages for visa stamps
- Not be subject to entry prohibition under Article 21 of Vietnam's Law on Entry, Exit, Transit, and Residence of Foreigners.
- Be a citizen of a country or territory eligible for eVisa. (As of August 15, 2023, all countries and territories are eligible for Vietnam eVisa.)
Documents Needed for the eVisa Application
Once you have confirmed that you are eligible for a Vietnam electronic visa (eVisa), it is time to prepare your documents. Having everything ready before starting your Vietnam electronic visa application helps prevent delays and increases the chance of smooth approval. While the list is short, each file needs to follow the specific guidelines for format and clarity.
Here is what you will need to prepare first:
1. Passport Scan
You must upload a full-page scan of your passport's biographical page. This page shows your photo, name, and personal details, and it's used to verify your identity.
The file must:
- Valid for at least six months from arrival
- Contain at least two blank pages for visa stamps
- Be in .jpg format
- Not exceeding 2MB in size.
- Show all details clearly, without blur or cropping.
2. Passport-Sized Photo
A recent color photo is required as part of the application. It should reflect your appearance and meet Vietnam's standard ID photo guidelines.
The photo must:
- Be taken within the last six months
- Have a white background
- Show your whole face, looking straight at the camera
- Not include glasses or headwear (except for religious purposes)
- Be in .jpg format and under 2MB
3. Travel Details
You will be asked to enter your intended arrival and departure dates and the specific port of entry and exit. Vietnam allows eVisa holders to use one of 42 approved border gates, including international airports, land crossings, and seaports.
Once submitted, you cannot change the entry or exit point on your eVisa. So double-check that your selection is accurate before completing the form.
How to Apply for a Vietnam eVisa
The Vietnam eVisa application process is simple and accessible. There are two main ways to submit your application: directly through the official Vietnamese government website or by using a licensed third-party service. While both methods follow the same basic steps, choosing the right one depends on your preferences for convenience, support, and payment flexibility.
Applying Directly via the Official Government Website
If you plan to apply for Vietnam eVisa through the official channel, the process includes three main steps.
Step 1: Fill out the Application Form
To begin the Vietnam eVisa application, travelers should go to the official government portal at https://evisa.gov.vn. Once on the homepage, select English from the top-right corner, then choose “Apply now.”
Before beginning your Vietnam eVisa application, it's helpful to gather all required documents. The system will prompt the applicant to upload two files:
- A scanned image of the passport’s biographical page
- A passport-sized portrait photo that meets the official eVisa photo requirements.
The form includes the following sections:
- Personal Information
- Legal and Immigration History
- Visa Details
- Passport Information
- Contact Information
- Trip Details
- Accompanying Children
- Trip Financing and Insurance (if applicable)
After completing the form, the system provides a registration code, which is also sent to the registered email address. This code is used later to check the status of the application.
Note: Even though the system may extract passport data from the uploaded file, all personal information should still be reviewed carefully. Errors can cause delays or result in an invalid eVisa.
If dealing with paperwork sounds like a hassle, let SeniWorld make your Vietnam electronic visa application quick and easy.
Step 2: Pay the eVisa Fee
After completing the form, travelers must pay the Vietnam eVisa application fee:
- $25 USD for a single-entry eVisa (valid for up to 90 days)
- $50 USD for a multiple-entry eVisa (also valid for up to 90 days)
Accepted cards include Visa, MasterCard, and JCB. American Express is not accepted. Payment must be made online immediately after submitting the form.
Step 3: Check Application Status and Download the eVisa
Once your Vietnam eVisa application and payment are submitted, there’s usually a short wait, around 3-5 working days. You can check the status of their Vietnam eVisa application using the registration code, email address, and date of birth on the eVisa portal.
Once approved, the eVisa can be downloaded as a PDF file. It is recommended to print a hard copy and carry it when traveling, as it must be presented upon entry to Vietnam.
Step-by-Step Guide via SeniWorld or Other Authorized Agencies
If you are short on time or prefer additional support, you can complete your Vietnam eVisa application through trusted third-party services like SeniWorld.
eVisa Option (Recommended for Most Travelers)
Passport holders from eligible countries can apply for a Vietnam eVisa entirely online—no embassy visit needed.
Steps:
- Fill out the online application form: Provide your passport details, travel dates, and personal info. Double-check all entries before submitting.
- Make a secure payment: Pay the processing and service fees using a credit/debit card or other available methods.
- Receive your eVisa by email, Your eVisa will be sent as a PDF file to your email
- Standard processing: 3–5 business days
- Urgent processing: 1–2 business days
Visa on Arrival (VOA) Option
If you are not eligible for the Vietnam eVisa application, or need quicker approval, the Visa on Arrival (VOA) is a reliable alternative. Note: this option is only valid for air travelers entering Vietnam through an international airport.
Steps:
Submit your visa request online
Fill out the form with your passport info and select your visa type (single or multiple entry). Choose standard or urgent processing.
Pay the service fee online
- Standard processing: 1–2 business days
- Urgent: same-day turnaround (in most cases)
Receive your Visa Approval Letter via email
Print this letter and prepare:
- Two passport-sized photos
- Stamping fee in cash (USD or VND)
Get your visa stamped on arrival
At the airport, present your approval letter, pay the stamping fee, and receive your visa before proceeding through immigration.
Frequently Asked Questions
How to Check Your Vietnam eVisa Application Status?
Once you have submitted your Vietnam eVisa application, you can easily track its status using the registration code you received at the time of submission. This is especially helpful if your travel date is coming up and you haven't received any email notifications yet.
Here’s how to check your application status:
- Go to the official portal: https://evisa.gov.vn/e-visa/search.
- Enter the following information exactly as submitted:
- Your registration code
- Email address
- Date of birth
3. Click “Search” to view your application result
Who Is Eligible for a Vietnam eVisa?
As of August 15, 2023, citizens of all countries and territories are eligible to submit a Vietnam eVisa application. This major update, announced by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, replaces the previous list that limited eligibility to just 80 countries.
Key Benefits of Using a Vietnam eVisa Over a Traditional Visa
Choosing a Vietnam eVisa application instead of going through the embassy brings clear advantages:
- Fully online process – no in-person visits required
- Faster processing – typically completed within 3 business days
- Lower, transparent fees – fixed at $25 or $50
- Self-tracking – use your registration code to check status
- Available to all nationalities as of August 2023
Conclusion
The Vietnam eVisa application is a convenient way to enter the country without visiting an embassy. With just a few documents and an internet connection, most travelers can apply for Vietnam eVisa in just a few minutes.
If you would rather not handle the paperwork yourself, SeniWorld is here to help. Our team reviews your application for accuracy, provides support throughout the process, and delivers your eVisa directly to your inbox on time, every time.