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Visa TypeVietnam

e-Visa (Electronic Visa) — Vietnam

Vietnam • VISIT visa pathway

Guide to the e-Visa (Electronic Visa) for Vietnam.

Reviewed by VisaMind Editorial·Last updated 2026-03-13·Sources: Immigration Department, evisa.gov.vn

vietnam destination photography

Key takeaways

  • You apply online through the Immigration Department of Vietnam as a foreign national.
  • Standard processing time is 3–5 business days.
  • You must submit your application electronically through the official system.

Quick answers

Who can apply for the Vietnam e-Visa?

Foreigners who are currently abroad and wish to enter Vietnam can apply for an electronic visa; the e-Visa is intended for applicants applying from outside Vietnam.

Are residents of Vietnam required to apply for an e-Visa?

No. Foreigners who are temporary residents in Vietnam (residence of foreigners) are exempt from applying for electronic visas and instead work through inviting and sponsoring agencies.

What image and photo files do I need to upload?

You must upload a portrait and the passport data page image. Photos should be recent passport-sized images in JPG or JPEG format; examples state a recent 4x6 cm image in JPG/JPEG under 2MB and passport photo requirements with sizes such as less than 50KB (phot…

Overview — Vietnam e-Visa

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Vietnam’s e‑Visa lets you apply online for permission to enter the country. The Immigration Department of Vietnam manages the system and reviews each application within a stated processing window of 3–5 business days.

What the e‑Visa is

The Vietnam e‑Visa is an electronic visa that you request through an online e‑Visa Application form. You submit your information directly to the Immigration Department of Vietnam for review.

This visa serves as an alternative to traditional visa types such as the Tourist Visa (DL Symbol), Business Visa (DN Symbol), and Investor Visa (DT Symbol), as well as Visa on Arrival. It is separate from any Visa Exemption program.

You apply before traveling. The authority processes applications within 3–5 business days.

Key features

ItemDetails
Application methodOnline e‑Visa Application form
Reviewing authorityImmigration Department of Vietnam
Processing time3–5 business days
FormatElectronic visa

You must complete the form accurately and submit it to the Immigration Department for consideration. For current fees in VND (₫), consult the Immigration Department of Vietnam.

Who manages the system

The Immigration Department of Vietnam (Cục Quản lý xuất nhập cảnh) administers the e‑Visa system. This authority receives, reviews, and decides e‑Visa applications.

You file your application directly with this department. No separate foreign agency or private entity makes the decision.

The Immigration Department also oversees other entry pathways, including:

  • Tourist Visa (DL Symbol)
  • Business Visa (DN Symbol)
  • Investor Visa (DT Symbol)
  • Visa on Arrival
  • Visa Exemption programs

Authority overview

AuthorityRole in e‑Visa process
Immigration Department of VietnamReceives and adjudicates e‑Visa applications

If you need official guidance on eligibility, documentation, or fees in ₫, refer to the Immigration Department of Vietnam.

Required Documents (Vietnam e-Visa online)

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You must submit clear passport details and properly formatted image files through the official Form e-Visa Application system managed by the Immigration Department of Vietnam (Cục Quản lý xuất nhập cảnh). Incomplete or non-compliant uploads lead to delays or rejection.

Passport and personal data

Your passport is the core document for the e-Visa Application. You must provide accurate personal details exactly as they appear on your passport data page.

Prepare the following:

  • A clear image of your passport data page
  • Full personal details:

Surname (last name)

  • Middle name (if applicable)

  • First name (given name)

  • Date of birth

  • Gender

  • Nationality

  • Biometric passport information as shown on the data page

All information must match your passport character-for-character. Do not shorten names or rearrange them.

Use a color image of the passport data page. Ensure all text, numbers, and machine-readable lines are fully visible and not cut off.

This requirement applies regardless of whether you apply for a Tourist Visa (DL Symbol), Business Visa (DN Symbol), or Investor Visa (DT Symbol) through the e-Visa system. It does not apply to travelers entering under Visa Exemption or using Visa on Arrival, which follow separate document procedures.

Document عنصرRequirement
Passport data page imageClear, complete, readable
Personal detailsMust match passport exactly
Biometric dataExtracted from passport page

Photo and image file requirements

You must upload two separate images: a portrait photo and a passport data page image.

Your portrait photo must meet these technical standards:

  • Recent photo
  • Size: 4x6 cm
  • Format: JPG or JPEG
  • File size: generally under 2MB
  • In some cases:

Portrait under 50KB

  • Passport image under 200KB

  • You must face forward

  • Do not wear glasses

The image must be clear and well-lit. Avoid shadows, filters, or heavy editing.

The system checks file size and format automatically. If your file exceeds the limit, compress it before uploading. Do not blur or crop essential details to reduce size.

Image TypeFormatSize Limit
Portrait photoJPG/JPEGUnder 2MB (or under 50KB in some cases)
Passport page imageJPG/JPEGUnder 200KB

Other conditional documents

Most applicants only need a passport image and a compliant photo. However, your visa category may affect additional requirements during processing by the Immigration Dept.

If you apply under:

  • Business Visa (DN Symbol)
  • Investor Visa (DT Symbol)

You may need supporting documentation related to your stated purpose of entry, depending on case review.

Applicants using the standard Tourist Visa (DL Symbol) route typically submit only the required passport and photo materials through the e-Visa Application system.

If you are eligible for Visa Exemption, you do not file an e-Visa Application. If you choose Visa on Arrival, you follow a different document submission process outside the online e-Visa platform.

Always ensure every uploaded document is complete, readable, and consistent with your declared visa category.

Fees and Processing Times

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You pay a fixed government fee, and the Immigration Dept applies a published processing window. Timing depends on category and reciprocity rules under the Immigration Law 2014.

Application fee

The Immigration Dept charges a statutory e‑Visa fee set at the ₫ equivalent of USD 25 for each application. You pay this amount when you submit your online e‑Visa Application.

The fee applies to the electronic visa issued by the Immigration Dept, not to Visa Exemption entries. It also differs from fees associated with Visa on Arrival or other visa types such as the Tourist Visa (DL Symbol), Business Visa (DN Symbol), or Investor Visa (DT Symbol), which follow separate procedures.

ItemAmount
Vietnam e‑Visa application₫ equivalent of USD 25

You should confirm the current payable amount in VND on the Immigration Dept portal before you submit. The system displays the official fee at the time of payment.

Processing time estimates

Under standard processing, the Immigration Dept lists a timeframe of 3–5 business days. This period starts after you complete and submit your e‑Visa Application and the system accepts it for review.

Processing typeEstimated time
Standard e‑Visa3–5 business days

Business days exclude weekends and public holidays. Plan your travel dates accordingly and avoid booking non‑refundable tickets until you receive your approval.

processing times for other visa categories, including the Business Visa (DN Symbol) and Investor Visa (DT Symbol), may differ because they do not follow the same electronic workflow. Always verify the current timeline with the Immigration Dept before you apply.

Variability and legal basis

Processing time can vary based on your visa category and the location responsible for handling your case. The Immigration Dept applies timelines according to the principle of reciprocity set out in the Immigration Law 2014.

Reciprocity means Vietnam may align certain processing conditions with how your country treats Vietnamese nationals. This legal framework affects how applications move through review.

You should not assume that all applicants receive approval within the minimum timeframe. Check the Immigration Dept’s official announcements for current processing updates, especially during peak travel periods or policy adjustments.

Application Process

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You complete the Form e-Visa Application entirely online through the Immigration Dept system. The process requires accurate passport details, a full declaration, and electronic payment in VND (₫).

Filling the online form

Start by entering your passport details into the e-Visa Application portal. The system may auto-fill certain fields based on your passport data, but you must review each entry carefully before moving forward.

Complete every field marked with an asterisk (*). Optional fields should only be used when they apply to you.

If you select “Others” in any dropdown menu, you must provide specific details. Vague or incomplete answers can lead to denial by the Immigration Dept.

Use this checklist while completing the form:

StepWhat You Must Do
1Verify auto-filled passport information
2Enter all required (*) fields
3Provide specific details if selecting “Others”
4Enter the verification code correctly
5Review the full declaration before proceeding

Choose the correct visa category for your purpose of travel, such as Tourist Visa (DL Symbol), Business Visa (DN Symbol), or Investor Visa (DT Symbol). Do not confuse the e-Visa with Visa Exemption or Visa on Arrival, which follow different procedures.

Any dishonest or inaccurate information can result in refusal by the Vietnam Immigration Dept.

Payment and submission

After completing the form, confirm your declaration information. The system will prompt you to select a payment method and enter your credit or debit card details.

You must:

  1. Review your declaration one final time

  2. Agree to the terms

  3. Proceed to payment in VND (₫)

Ensure your card details are correct before submission. An error in payment information can interrupt processing and require you to restart the application.

Once payment is submitted, the system will issue a registration code. Save this code immediately. You will also use your registration email to check your application status later.

Keep both details secure. You cannot track or verify your application without them.

Declaration and verification steps

You must confirm that all information in your application is true and complete before final submission. This declaration is legally binding.

The Immigration Dept will review:

  • Passport information
  • Personal details
  • Purpose of entry
  • Visa category selection

If the authorities detect false or misleading information, they can deny your e-Visa Application.

Before submitting, verify:

Item to ConfirmWhy It Matters
Passport numberMust match your travel document exactly
Personal dataErrors may delay or invalidate approval
Visa type (DL, DN, DT)Must reflect your actual travel purpose
Declaration accuracyFalse statements result in denial

Enter the required verification code correctly when prompted. This step confirms that you are submitting the application yourself and finalizes the process.

Accuracy at this stage prevents avoidable refusals and delays.

Eligibility Requirements

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You must apply for a Vietnam e‑Visa while you are outside Vietnam and before you travel. The Immigration Dept issues the e‑Visa only to foreign nationals who meet the conditions set by the Law on Entry, Exit, Transit and Residence of Foreigners in Vietnam.

Who may apply

You may submit an e‑Visa Application if you meet all of the following:

  • You are a foreigner currently outside Vietnam.
  • You wish to enter Vietnam for a permitted purpose.
  • You are not in the categories listed in Clauses 1, 2, 3, or 4 of Article 8 of the immigration law.
  • You apply personally, rather than through a sponsoring agency.

The e‑Visa applies only to people abroad. If you already hold temporary residence in Vietnam, you cannot switch to an e‑Visa from inside the country.

The e‑Visa functions as an alternative to other visa types such as the Tourist Visa (DL Symbol), Business Visa (DN Symbol), or Investor Visa (DT Symbol) when you qualify to apply independently. It also replaces the need to pursue Visa on Arrival in eligible cases.

RequirementMust Be Met
Location at time of applicationOutside Vietnam
Applicant typeForeign national
Legal exclusionsNot in Article 8, Clauses 1–4
SponsorshipNot required for e‑Visa applicants

Exemptions and residence rules

Certain foreign nationals do not apply for an e‑Visa.

If you fall under Clauses 1, 2, or 3 of the residence provisions of the immigration law, you are exempt from the e‑Visa requirement. However, you must complete entry procedures through an inviting or sponsoring agency in Vietnam instead of filing your own e‑Visa Application.

Foreigners covered by Clauses 1–4 of Article 8 of the law are also not eligible to use the e‑Visa system.

In addition, individuals eligible for Visa Exemption under Vietnamese law do not need to apply for an e‑Visa for the exempted stay period.

Categorye‑Visa Required?Action Required
Visa ExemptionNoEnter under exemption rules
Clauses 1–3 (Residence provisions)NoApply via sponsor
Article 8, Clauses 1–4Not eligibleFollow applicable legal procedure
Other foreign nationals abroadYesApply online

References to the immigration law

The e‑Visa system is governed by the Law on Entry, Exit, Transit and Residence of Foreigners in Vietnam.

Article 8 lists categories of foreigners excluded from the standard e‑Visa process. Clauses 1–3 specify that some applicants must use inviting or sponsoring organizations instead of applying independently.

The Immigration Dept (Cục Quản lý xuất nhập cảnh) manages the e‑Visa process and eligibility under these rules.

Conditions of Stay

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Your e-Visa strictly limits your length of stay, entry method, and permitted activities in Vietnam. You must comply with the exact terms set by the Immigration Department of Vietnam (Cục Quản lý xuất nhập cảnh).

Non-compliance can bring fines, delays in departure, or restrictions on future e-Visa applications.

Duration and entry type

Your approved stay is listed on the e-Visa approval from the Immigration Dept. You are only authorized to remain in Vietnam for the validity period shown.

The e-Visa will specify single-entry or multiple-entry permission. You cannot change the entry type after approval; a new application is required for any change.

ConditionWhat It Means for You
Validity periodYou must enter and exit within the approved dates.
Entry typeYou may enter once or multiple times, as stated.
Purpose of visitYou must follow the purpose declared in your application.

An e-Visa does not allow you to participate in activities outside the declared visa category. For example:

  • Tourist Visa (DL Symbol): For tourism and limited personal travel.
  • Business Visa (DN Symbol): For business meetings or commercial matters.
  • Investor Visa (DT Symbol): For investment activities as recognized under Vietnamese law.

If your activities differ from your declared purpose, you need to apply for the correct visa type. Visa Exemption or Visa on Arrival options do not substitute for the appropriate e-Visa.

Residence/temporary stay info

An e-Visa only authorizes temporary stay. It does not provide residence status, long-term stay rights, or employment authorization unless specifically allowed under Vietnamese law.

After arrival, you must follow local temporary residence rules. Accommodation providers usually help register your stay with authorities, but you remain responsible for legal compliance.

Your stay conditions include:

  • A passport valid for your approved stay.
  • Entry through checkpoints approved by the Immigration Dept.
  • Departure before your authorized period ends.

If you require a longer stay, contact the Immigration Dept to see if an extension or different visa type is possible. Approval depends on your circumstances and current regulations.

Approval not guaranteed

Submitting an Form e-Visa Application does not ensure approval. The Immigration Dept examines each application individually.

You must submit accurate, complete information:

  • All passport details must be correct.
  • State your travel purpose clearly.
  • Entry and exit dates must match supporting documents.

False or inconsistent details can result in refusal. Prior immigration violations, overstays, or misuse of Visa Exemption or Visa on Arrival may also affect your application.

If denied, review the Immigration Department of Vietnam’s latest guidance for your next steps. You cannot travel to Vietnam with an unapproved or pending e-Visa.

Tips and Common Mistakes

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e-Visa (Electronic Visa) - Tips and Common Mistakes comparison
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Accuracy and document quality are the main reasons the Immigration Dept accepts or rejects e‑Visa applications. Most denials come from inconsistencies, missing evidence, or invalid photos.

Expert tips

Complete every field exactly as it appears on your passport. Match names, passport numbers, and dates character for character, including middle names and spacing.

Review your entire application before submitting. Even minor inconsistencies can delay processing or cause rejection.

Use clear, truthful information in English. The Immigration Dept compares your details to your passport and supporting documents, whether you apply for a Tourist Visa (DL Symbol), Business Visa (DN Symbol), or Investor Visa (DT Symbol).

If you qualify for Visa Exemption, check that you actually need an e‑Visa. Using the wrong visa type leads to problems at entry.

Before you submit:

  • Double-check all passport details against your biographical page
  • Make sure your visa category matches your travel purpose
  • Upload all required supporting documents
  • Check every answer for spelling and number errors

If you are unsure about eligibility or visa type, ask the Immigration Department of Vietnam (Cục Quản lý xuất nhập cảnh).

Common documentation errors

Most rejections happen because of incomplete or inconsistent information between your application and documents.

You need to ensure that:

  • Passport details match exactly across all uploaded files
  • All required evidence is included
  • No section is left blank

Partial documentation halts the review process. The system might accept your upload, but the Immigration Dept can still refuse the application during review.

Here's a table with frequent issues and how to avoid them:

IssueWhy It Causes ProblemsHow to Avoid It
Mismatched passport detailsFails identity verificationCopy details directly from passport
Missing supporting documentsApplication considered incompleteUpload all required evidence before submission
Incorrect visa symbol (DL, DN, DT)Purpose of stay unclearSelect the correct visa category
Dishonest or inaccurate answersImmediate refusal riskProvide complete and truthful information

The system will not correct your mistakes. You are responsible for every entry.

Photo and format pitfalls

Your passport photo must meet size and format requirements. If it doesn’t, you can’t submit the application.

Use a recent, passport-style photo that clearly shows your face. Blurry, cropped, or poorly formatted files often fail upload checks.

Common photo errors include:

  • Outdated photos that don’t match your appearance
  • Wrong file size or format
  • Poor lighting or unclear facial features

An invalid photo can block your application before review. Make sure your file meets technical requirements before uploading.

Your photo is just as important as your passport data for identity verification.

Know When to Get Help

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Mistakes in your Form e-Visa Application can delay your travel or cause rejection. Seek help if your situation involves special documentation, non-standard visa categories, or coordination with Vietnamese authorities.

When expert help is useful

Professional advice is helpful if your case is more complex than a simple online submission.

Consider help if you:

  • Aren’t sure if you qualify for Visa Exemption or need an e-Visa
  • Previously used Visa on Arrival and need to switch to e-Visa
  • Plan to enter on a Business Visa (DN Symbol) or Investor Visa (DT Symbol)
  • Need to submit documents through a representative agency in Vietnam
  • Must file residence declarations or documents with the Commune Police

Your application requires accurate personal details:

  • Full name (surname, middle name, first name)
  • Date of birth
  • Gender
  • Personal identification number
  • Temporary residence period
  • Portrait and biometric passport photo

Mistakes in these fields can cause processing issues. For business, investment, or official visits, getting a professional review can reduce the risk of incomplete documentation.

Who to contact

Contact the relevant authority for your situation.

SituationContact
General e-Visa Application questionsImmigration Department of Vietnam (Cục Quản lý xuất nhập cảnh)
Submission of residence or local declarationsCommune Police
Visits involving foreign representative agenciesRelevant representative agency in Vietnam

The Immigration Dept manages the electronic visa system and processes applications from outside Vietnam. For complex eligibility or documentation questions, contact this authority.

If you need to file residence information or declarations, submit documents to the Commune Police.

For official or agency visits, coordinate with the sponsoring office to provide the correct identification and paperwork.

What Consular Officers Evaluate

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Consular officers from the Immigration Department of Vietnam (Cục Quản lý xuất nhập cảnh) check the accuracy and honesty of your application. They focus on whether your application is complete, truthful, and in English.

Verification of facts

Officers review your Form e-Visa Application to confirm it’s accurate and complete. Every statement must reflect your real circumstances.

They compare your details across all sections, including visa type selection:

Visa TypeSymbol
Tourist VisaDL
Business VisaDN
Investor VisaDT
Visa ExemptionN/A
Visa on ArrivalN/A

If you apply for a Tourist Visa (DL Symbol), your stated purpose must be tourism. For a Business Visa (DN Symbol) or Investor Visa (DT Symbol), your declared intent must match.

Officers also check that you haven’t misrepresented eligibility for Visa Exemption or incorrectly applied for Visa on Arrival instead of e-Visa.

You are responsible for ensuring all facts are true and clear in English.

Consequences of inconsistencies

Any inconsistency can lead to refusal. Even small differences between sections may raise doubts.

Examples include:

  • Conflicting statements about travel purpose
  • Selecting the wrong visa category
  • Incomplete or inaccurate personal details
  • Untruthful information

If officers find false or misleading data, they can deny your e-visa. This can also cause problems for future applications.

Review your full application before submitting. Honest and accurate disclosure is required for approval.

How to Submit Documents to Local Authorities?

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You might need to submit documents to local authorities after your Form e-Visa Application or when handling residence matters in Vietnam. This usually means filing forms and ID documents with the Commune Police, especially if your stay details change or you represent a foreign agency.

When to involve Commune Police

You must submit documents to the Commune Police when your temporary residence details need official recording or updates.

This is required if:

  • Your temporary residence period changes
  • You need to declare updated residence information
  • You represent or visit members of foreign representative agencies in Vietnam

Prepare these personal details for each person:

  • Surname, middle name, and first name
  • Date of birth
  • Gender
  • Personal identification number
  • Temporary residence period

Include a Declaration of Change of Residence Information form if needed.

Submit documents directly to the Commune Police. If your case is linked to an Immigration Dept matter—such as Tourist Visa (DL Symbol), Business Visa (DN Symbol), Investor Visa (DT Symbol), Visa on Arrival, or Visa Exemption—you still need to complete local residence declarations when required.

For electronic submissions, upload a portrait and biometric passport photo.

RequirementWhere Submitted
Residence declarationCommune Police
Change of residence form (if needed)Commune Police
Identity detailsCommune Police

Local forms and representative agency evidence

If you visit members of a foreign representative agency, provide proof of representation.

Include:

  • One copy of the ID card of a member of the relevant agency
  • Your registration code
  • Your registration email

Make sure the ID copy is clear and readable.

When submitting, confirm your information matches your e-Visa Application or the visa issued by the Immigration Dept, such as Tourist Visa (DL Symbol), Business Visa (DN Symbol), or Investor Visa (DT Symbol). Inconsistent data can delay processing.

For electronic procedures, upload:

  1. A recent portrait photo

  2. A biometric passport-style photo

Use personal data that matches your passport and visa record.

DocumentPurpose
ID copy of agency memberConfirms representative relationship
Registration code & emailIdentifies your application record
Biometric photoSupports identity verification

Fees

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ComponentAmount
Application feeSingle-entry e-Visa (up to 90 days)$25

Fees change; always verify on Immigration Dept..

Next steps

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Use Find My Visa to build a sequenced plan with official sources and deadlines.

FAQs

How much does the e-Visa cost and how long does it take?

The application fee is $25 (as of 2026-02). Standard processing time for the e-Visa is generally 3 to 5 days (processing windows are applied according to reciprocity and may vary by category and location).

What happens if I provide dishonest or inconsistent information?

The Form e-Visa Application will be denied if dishonest information is found by the Vietnam Immigration Authority. Incomplete or inconsistent information across the form is a common cause of rejection.

Will the system allow submission if my passport photo is invalid?

No. If the passport photo is invalid, the system will not allow users to submit the application.

Do processing times ever vary?

Yes. processing times for the e-Visa vary by category and processing location; they are based on the principle of reciprocity per the Immigration Law.

What personal details must match the passport?

Applicants must provide personal details exactly as in the passport, including surname, middle name, first name, date of birth, gender and other passport data used for verification.

What are common mistakes to avoid when applying?

Common mistakes include failing to declare all information accurately and honestly in English, providing passport photos that are not recent or do not meet size and format specifications, and submitting incomplete documents without required accompanying evidence.

Important

VisaMind provides informational guidance only and is not a government agency. This is not legal advice. Requirements can change and eligibility depends on your specific facts. If your case is complex or high-stakes, consult a licensed immigration attorney.

Next steps

Every Vietnam visa case depends on your nationality, purpose, and timeline. Get a personalized plan with official sources and deadlines.

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