Vietnam eVisa: A Step-by-Step Guide With All Informations You may Need
Vietnam, with its rich cultural heritage, stunning natural landscapes, and bustling cities, has firmly established itself as one of the most sought-after travel destinations in the world. Whether you’re planning to immerse yourself in the vibrant street life of Hanoi, cruise through the breathtaking limestone karsts of Ha Long Bay, or explore the ancient town of Hoi An, Vietnam offers a unique experience for every traveler. To make your journey even smoother, the Vietnam eVisa system provides a hassle-free and efficient way to obtain your visa entirely online. This modern approach eliminates the need for embassy visits or lengthy paperwork, allowing travelers from countries such as the United States, United Kingdom, Canada, Australia, South Korea, and Japan, to complete the entire application process from the comfort of their homes.
Whether you’re visiting for tourism, business, or other permitted purposes, the Vietnam eVisa is a convenient solution that saves time and effort. In this comprehensive guide, we will walk you through the entire application process—starting from creating an account on the official eVisa portal to submitting your application and downloading your approved visa. By following these easy steps, you’ll be well-prepared to embark on an unforgettable journey to Vietnam with minimal hassle.
Note: Visa rules often change, so before applying for a visa by following this guide, it is advisable to contact the relevant embassy or consulate office for the most up-to-date information.
Step 1: Visit the Official Vietnam eVisa Website
To begin your Vietnam eVisa application, visit the official website at evisa.gov.vn/login. Select English from the dropdown menu in the top-right corner for easier navigation. Then Click on “e-Visa” from the left , then choose “For Foreign Individuals” to start your application.
Ensure you have a stable internet connection and allocate enough time to complete the form without interruptions.
Step 2: Gather Required Documents and Information
Before filling out your Vietnam eVisa application, it’s crucial to have all the necessary documents and details ready to avoid delays or rejections.
Passport:
Prepare a clear scanned copy of the biometric information page in PDF or JPEG format. Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months beyond your intended entry date, with at least two blank pages for entry and exit stamps.
Passport-Sized Photo:
Ensure you have a recent photo taken within the last 6 months, against a white background, with dimensions of 4×6 cm in portrait format. Your face should be clearly visible, with no accessories such as glasses or hats.
Payment Method:
A valid credit or debit card (Visa, Mastercard, or any internationally accepted card) is required to pay the visa processing fee. Make sure your card has sufficient balance and online transaction capability enabled.
Required Information:
You need to have the following details ready:
- Valid email address (for receiving the eVisa confirmation).
- Emergency contact details (Mandatory): Full name, address, phone number, and relationship.
- Visa type: Choose between single-entry or multiple-entry.
- Planned travel dates: Your intended entry and exit dates.
- Entry and exit ports: Airports, land borders, or seaports.
- Hotel address in Vietnam (Mandatory): If you haven’t booked a hotel, you can reserve one to provide an address.You can use Agoda, Trivago, Trip.com To make a Hotel Reservation.
- Residential details: Permanent home address and current address with a valid phone number.
- Occupation details: Job title, employer/school name, address, and contact number.
Step 3: Fill Out the Vietnam eVisa Application Form
Once all documents and details are ready, follow these steps carefully to complete your application. Mandatory fields are marked with (*).
1. Personal Information Section:
- Surname (Last name) (*): Enter your surname exactly as it appears on your passport.
- Middle and Given Name (First name) (*): Provide your first and middle names.
- Date of Birth (*): Select the full date in DD/MM/YYYY format.
- Sex (*): Choose Male or Female.
- Nationality (*): Select your nationality from the dropdown.
- Identity Card (Optional): If applicable, enter your ID number.
- Email (*): Provide a valid email for updates and visa approval notifications.
- Re-enter Email (*): Confirm your email address.
- Agree to Create an Account: Check the box to confirm account creation.
- Religion (*): Enter your religion as per your passport.
- Place of Birth (*): Specify your birthplace.
2. Requested Information Section:
- Visa Type (*): Choose between single-entry or multiple-entry.
- Grant e-Visa Valid From () and To (): Enter your intended travel dates.
3. Passport Information Section:
- Passport Number (*): Enter your passport number accurately.
- Issuing Authority/Place of Issue: Provide details as mentioned in your passport.
- Date of Issue (*): Enter in DD/MM/YYYY format.
- Expiry Date (*): Provide the expiry date as stated in your passport.
- Type (*): Choose the appropriate passport type.
- Do You Hold Any Other Valid Passports?: Select Yes or No.
4. Contact Information Section:
- Permanent Residential Address (*): Provide your permanent home address.
- Contact Address (*): Enter your current address (if different).
- Telephone Number (*): Provide a valid phone number.
- Emergency Contact Full Name (*): Enter your emergency contact’s name.
- Current Residential Address (*): Enter where you currently reside.
- Emergency Contact Phone Number (*): Provide a reachable contact number.
- Emergency Contact Relationship (*): Specify your relationship with the contact.
5. Occupation Section (Optional):
- Occupation: Select your profession from the dropdown list.
- Occupation Info: Provide additional job-related details.
- Company/Agency/School Name: Enter the name of your workplace or educational institution.
- Company/Agency/School Phone Number: Add a valid contact number.
- Position/Course of Study: Mention your job position or study course.
6. Information About the Trip Section:
- Purpose of Entry (*): Choose the reason for your visit (tourism, business, etc.).
- Intended Date of Entry (*): Select your planned arrival date.
- Intended Length of Stay in Vietnam (*): Enter your duration of stay in days.
- Phone Number (in Vietnam): Provide a local contact number, if available.
- Residential Address in Vietnam (*): Provide your hotel or accommodation address.
- Province/City (*): Select your travel destination.
- District (*): Choose the corresponding district.
- Ward/Commune (*): Select the appropriate area.
- Intended Border Gate of Entry (*): Select your entry point.
- Intended Border Gate of Exit (*): Provide your exit point.
7. Accompanying Children (If Any):
- Full Name: Provide the child’s full name.
- Sex: Choose Male or Female.
- Date of Birth (DD/MM/YYYY): Enter the child’s birth date.
- Portrait Photography: Upload the child’s photo.
Note: Children must have separate eVisa applications if they hold individual passports.
8. Trip’s Expenses and Insurance Section:
- Intended Expenses (in USD): Enter your estimated trip budget.
- Did You Buy Insurance?: Select Yes/No.
- Who Will Cover the Trip’s Expenses?: Choose self, employer, or sponsor.
Final Declaration and Submission:
Before submitting, read and agree to the declaration statement. Click “Next” to review your details. If errors are found, correct them before proceeding to the payment page.
Step 4: Pay the Visa Fee
Once the review is completed, you’ll be directed to the payment page.
- Choose your visa type:
- USD 25 for a 30-day single-entry eVisa.
- USD 50 for a 90-day multiple-entry eVisa.
- Use a valid credit or debit card (Visa/Mastercard) for payment.
Note: The visa fee is non-refundable, and sometimes payment errors occur due to server issues. If that happens, you’ll need to restart your application from the beginning.
Step 5: Download and Print Your eVisa
After submission, you will get an email with visa success massage which will be include your vietnam evisa application number.
- Use your reference number to check your visa status at evisa.gov.vn/e-visa/search.
- your application will be processed within 3 working days.
- Once approved, download your eVisa in PDF format.
- Print at least two copies for immigration checks.
Entering Vietnam
At the immigration checkpoint, you will need to present your printed eVisa, a valid passport, and your travel itinerary, which includes return flight tickets. Additionally, you must provide proof of accommodation, such as a hotel booking confirmation or an invitation letter from a host. The immigration officer will carefully review your documents, verify the provided details, and, upon approval, stamp your passport, granting you entry into Vietnam.
The best and cheapest Hotel recommendation’s for Vietnam
- Green Homestay – starting from 3usd per night
- Hanoi EcoStay 2 Hostel – starting from 3usd per night
- The CoMB Hanoi – starting from 4usd per night
- Hanoi Jade Hostel – starting from 4usd per night
- Hanoi EcoStay 1 hostel – starting from 4usd per night
Vietnam Visa Exemption Information
Vietnam offers visa exemptions for travelers from certain countries, allowing them to enter the country without needing to apply for a visa in advance. Depending on your nationality and Vietnam’s agreements with your country, you may qualify for a visa-free stay.
Unilateral Visa Exemption
If you are a citizen of a country that Vietnam unilaterally exempts from visa requirements, you will be granted a 45-day temporary residence certificate upon arrival. This allows travelers to stay in Vietnam without a visa for up to 45 days.
To check whether your country is eligible, visit the official Vietnam Immigration website, where you can find the updated list of countries with unilateral visa exemption status.
Bilateral Visa Exemption
Travelers from countries that have bilateral agreements with Vietnam may also be eligible for visa-free entry. Under these agreements:
- If your country has an agreement with Vietnam, you will be granted a temporary stay period based on the treaty provisions outlined in the agreement.
- If the treaty does not specify the duration of stay, travelers will be granted a 30-day temporary residence period upon entry.
To confirm your eligibility, check with the Vietnamese Embassy or official government resources before traveling.
Important Notes for Visa-Exempt Travelers
Before planning your trip under Vietnam’s visa exemption policy, here are some key points to keep in mind:
- Verify Your Eligibility: Ensure your nationality qualifies for the visa exemption by checking the official government list.
- Temporary Stay Certificate: Upon arrival, you will receive a temporary residence certificate, which serves as proof of your legal stay in Vietnam.
- Exceeding Your Stay: If you plan to stay longer than the allowed period, you must apply for an appropriate visa before your exemption period expires. Overstaying may lead to fines or travel restrictions.
- Return Ticket Requirement: Some airlines and immigration officers may request proof of onward travel (such as a return ticket) to ensure compliance with the allowed stay period.
- Multiple Entries: If you exit and re-enter Vietnam, the exemption period will reset, but certain conditions may apply depending on the bilateral agreement between Vietnam and your country.
Vietnam eVisa vs. Sticker Visa: Key Differences
Vietnam eVisa Stay Duration and Validity
- Validity Period:
- A Vietnam eVisa is valid for 90 days from the date of issue.
- You must enter Vietnam within this 90-day window.
- Your stay duration is up to 30 days from your entry date.
- If your eVisa is issued on 01/01/2025, you must enter Vietnam by 31/03/2025.
- If you enter on 12/01/2025, you can stay until 11/02/2025 (30 days).
- Flexible Entry Date: – You can enter anytime during the 90-day validity period, and your stay begins from the date of entry.
Sticker Visa Stay Duration and Validity
- Validity Period: – A sticker visa specifies exact entry and exit dates. You must enter and exit within these dates. Example: – If your visa states 12/01/2025 to 31/01/2025, you must enter on or after 12/01/2025 and exit by 31/01/2025.
- No Flexibility: – Fixed entry and exit dates with no room for adjustments.
Here’s is the in-details table for Evisa and sticker visa Differences
Feature | Vietnam eVisa | Sticker Visa (Embassy Visa) |
---|---|---|
Validity Period | 90 days from the date of issue. | Fixed validity based on the dates you apply for (e.g., 12/01/2025 to 31/01/2025). |
Stay Duration | Up to 30 days, starting from the entry date. | Fixed duration specified during the application (e.g., exactly 20 days or 1 month). |
Flexibility | Flexible entry: You can enter any time within the 90-day validity period, and the 30-day stay starts upon entry. | Rigid entry/exit dates: You must enter and leave on the exact dates specified on the visa. |
Single or Multiple Entry | Single entry only. | Can be single-entry or multiple-entry, depending on the type of visa requested. |
Where to Apply | Online via the official Vietnam eVisa portal: evisa.xuatnhapcanh.gov.vn. | At a Vietnamese embassy or consulate. |
Processing Time | Typically 3 business days, but delays may occur during peak travel periods or server issues. | Varies by embassy/consulate; can take 5–7 business days or longer, depending on the embassy’s workload. |
Processing Fee | $25 USD, non-refundable. | Varies by embassy/consulate, visa type, and processing time (usually $40–100+ USD). |
Documents Required | Basic requirements: passport, passport photo, travel dates, port of entry, and payment method. | Requires additional documents: visa application form, passport photos, flight details, accommodation, financial proof, and possibly invitation letters. |
Conversion in Vietnam | Cannot be converted to a sticker visa after entry. | Not applicable as it is already issued as a sticker visa. |
Eligible Ports of Entry | Accepted at 33 ports, including major international airports (e.g., Noi Bai, Tan Son Nhat, Da Nang), land borders, and seaports. See the full list below. | Accepted at all ports of entry into Vietnam. |
Extension Options | Extensions are possible but must be arranged through a local agent or immigration office in Vietnam. | Extensions are easier and can be requested directly at immigration offices in Vietnam. |
Purpose of Visit | Primarily for tourism, short-term business, or family visits. | Suitable for tourism, business, study, work, or other purposes, depending on the type of visa applied for. |
Advantages | – Fully online process. – Convenient for short trips (30 days max). – Flexible entry within the 90-day validity period. | – Allows longer stays. – Can be multiple entry. – Suitable for more complex travel plans, including long-term stays or work. |
Disadvantages | – Limited to 30 days and single entry. – Cannot accommodate long-term plans. – Prone to server errors during application. | – Requires in-person application at the embassy or consulate. – Processing times may be longer. – Higher fees. |
Additional Notes for Choosing Between eVisa and Sticker Visa
- Choose Vietnam eVisa If:
- You are planning a short trip (30 days or less).
- You prefer an online application process.
- Your travel plans are flexible, and you don’t need a specific entry/exit date.
- Choose Sticker Visa If:
- You need to stay for more than 30 days or require multiple entries.
- Your travel dates are fixed and cannot be adjusted.
- You are traveling for purposes like work, study, or other long-term engagements.
Important Note on Conversion
- eVisa Cannot Be Converted to Sticker Visa in Vietnam: – Once you enter Vietnam with an eVisa, you cannot upgrade, convert, or change it into a sticker visa at any airport or immigration office.
- Plan Accordingly: – If you need to stay longer than 30 days or require multiple entries, apply for a sticker visa at the Vietnamese embassy or consulate before traveling.
Important Notes About Vietnam eVisa
- eVisas cannot be extended online. Visit a local immigration office for assistance.
- If you are not eligible for visa exemption or plan to stay beyond the allowed period, applying for a Vietnam eVisa is a quick and convenient option. Here are a few things to remember:
- The Vietnam eVisa is valid for 42 designated entry points, including international airports, land border crossings, and seaports.
- The visa processing fee is non-refundable, so it’s crucial to double-check all information before submission.
- No extensions are available for Vietnam eVisas. If you need to stay longer, you must leave the country and reapply for a new visa.
- Always carry printed copies of your eVisa when traveling, as it may be required for verification upon arrival.