How to Apply for a Vietnam eVisa: A Step-by-Step Guide

Vietnam, with its rich culture, stunning landscapes, and bustling cities, is a top destination for travelers worldwide. If you’re planning a trip to Vietnam, the Vietnam eVisa system makes it convenient to apply for a visa entirely online without visiting an embassy or consulate. This detailed guide will walk you through the entire process, from creating an account on the Vietnam eVisa website to submitting your application and receiving your eVisa.

Step 1: Check Your Eligibility

Confirm Your Eligibility for Vietnam eVisa:

1. Visit the official Vietnam eVisa portal: https://evisa.xuatnhapcanh.gov.vn.
2. Ensure your nationality is listed in the eligible countries section.
3. Common eligible countries include: – USA, UK, Canada, Australia, South Korea, Japan, India, Bangladesh, and many more.
4. eVisa is applicable for single entry only and allows a stay of up to 30 days.

Step 2: Gather Required Documents

Ensure all required documents are prepared in advance. Documents must be clear, legible, and in PDF or JPEG format. All documents must be in English.

Required Documents:

1. Passport:
   • Scan of the biometric information page.
   • Passport must be valid for at least 6 months beyond your entry date.
2. Passport Photo:
   • Recent photo (taken within the last 6 months).
   • White background.
   • Size: 4×6 cm (portrait).
3. Travel Details:
   • Planned entry and exit dates.
   • Port of Entry: Select your designated entry point (e.g., Noi Bai International Airport, Ho Chi Minh City Airport).
4. Payment Method:
   • Credit card or debit card for paying the eVisa fee (25 USD non-refundable).

Step 3: Access the Official Vietnam eVisa Website

1. Go to the official Vietnam eVisa website: https://evisa.xuatnhapcanh.gov.vn.
2. Click on “eVisa Application.”

Step 4: Fill Out the eVisa Application Form

Follow these steps carefully to complete your application:

1. Personal Information:
   • Full Name (exactly as in your passport).
   • Date of Birth, Gender, Nationality.
2. Passport Information:
   • Passport Number.
   • Issue Date and Expiry Date.
   • Country of Issue.
3. Travel Information:
   • Planned date of entry and exit.
   • Intended port of entry and exit.
4. Address in Vietnam:
   • Provide your accommodation details (e.g., hotel name and address).
5. Contact Information:
   • Your email address (used for updates and eVisa delivery).
   • Phone number (optional).
6. Upload Documents:
   • Passport scan.
   • Passport-sized photo.

Step 5: Review and Submit the Application

1. Double-check all information to ensure accuracy.
   • Errors in details like your name or passport number can lead to rejection.
2. Click “Submit” to finalize your application.
3. Take Note: After submission, you’ll receive an Application Reference Code. Keep this code safe to track your application status.
4. Important: Submission errors are common on the eVisa portal due to server issues. If your application doesn’t go through, restart the process and reapply.

Step 6: Pay the eVisa Fee

1. Proceed to the payment page.
2. Pay the 25 USD fee using your credit or debit card.
3. Once the payment is successful, you will receive a confirmation email.

Step 7: Track Your Application Status

1. Go to the Vietnam eVisa Status Check page: https://evisa.xuatnhapcanh.gov.vn.
2. Enter your Application Reference Code, email address, and date of birth.
3. Check the status of your application.

Processing Time:

• eVisa applications are typically processed within 3 business days. However, it may take longer during peak travel seasons or holidays.

Step 8: Receive and Print Your eVisa

1. Once approved, you will receive your eVisa as a PDF file via email.
2. Download and print at least two copies of your eVisa.
   • You will need to present one copy at the immigration checkpoint.

Step 9: Entering Vietnam

At the immigration checkpoint, present the following:

1. Printed eVisa.
2. Passport.
3. Travel Itinerary: Return flight tickets.
4. Proof of Accommodation: Hotel booking confirmation or invitation letter from a host.

The immigration officer will verify your documents, stamp your passport, and allow entry.

Vietnam eVisa vs. Sticker Visa: Key Differences

Vietnam eVisa Stay Duration and Validity

1. 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.
   Example:
   • 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).
2. 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

1. 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.
2. 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

Additional Notes for Choosing Between eVisa and Sticker Visa

1. 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.
2. 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

1. Extensions: – eVisas cannot be extended online. Visit a local immigration office for assistance.
2. Eligible Ports of Entry: – Accepted at 33 international checkpoints (airports, land borders, seaports).
3. Document Quality: – Ensure all scans and photos are clear and in compliance with requirements.

By understanding these details, you can choose the right visa type and avoid issues during your trip to Vietnam. Safe travels! 🌏✈️