Overview
Vietnam issues electronic visas to citizens of essentially all countries and territories, valid for up to 90 days, single or multiple entry. Since November 2024 the official portal operates on two domains — evisa.gov.vn and thithucdientu.gov.vn — and the government is explicit that all other websites are invalid. Foreigners outside Vietnam can personally submit the application themselves; you don't need an inviting or guaranteeing agency, though one can also apply on your behalf if you prefer.
Visa categories
| e-Visa — single entry | One entry into Vietnam within the visa's validity, up to 90 days stay. |
|---|---|
| e-Visa — multiple entry | Repeated entries within the 90-day validity window. |
| Visa on Arrival (pre-approval) | An alternative route for eligible travelers, requiring an approval letter obtained in advance before collecting the visa stamp at the airport. |
Documents checklist
- Passport valid for at least 6 months beyond your arrival date
- Scanned copy of your passport's photo/bio page
- Scanned passport-style photo, uploaded as a separate file
- Valid email address to receive updates and the approved e-Visa
- Details of your first hotel/accommodation in Vietnam (for the application form)
- Payment method for the non-refundable e-Visa fee
Photo requirements
| Format | Digital scan/photo uploaded as its own file, separate from the passport scan |
|---|---|
| Style | Looking directly at the camera, without smiling |
| Background | Plain background, as specified on the current application form |
Step-by-step application process
1. Check your eligibility
Confirm your nationality is on the eligible list and that you're currently outside Vietnam.
2. Go to evisa.gov.vn and select "Apply now"
Read the declaration instructions before starting.
3. Upload your passport and photo
Upload the passport bio page and your photo as two separate files.
4. Fill in the required information
Enter personal details, travel dates, entry/exit points and accommodation information.
5. Pay the application fee
Pay via the electronic payment gateway. This fee is non-refundable, even if the application is later refused.
6. Check your e-Visa result
Use your registration code, email and date of birth at the official result-check page once processing is complete.
7. Print and carry your e-Visa
Bring a printed copy along with the passport you applied with.
Fees & processing time
| Validity | Up to 90 days, single or multiple entry |
|---|---|
| Processing time | Apply with enough lead time before travel — begin once your accommodation details are confirmed, ideally at least two weeks ahead |
| Fee | Paid via the official electronic payment gateway; non-refundable if refused |
Frequently asked questions
Do I need a surname on my passport to apply?
No — a surname isn't mandatory for the e-Visa application; there's a dedicated path on the official site for passports without one.
Can a Vietnamese citizen sponsor my e-Visa?
Individual Vietnamese citizens cannot guarantee a foreigner's stay for e-Visa purposes — you either apply yourself, or a registered agency/organization applies on your behalf.
What if I have no surname or unusual passport formatting?
The official portal has a specific application path (noted on evisa.gov.vn) for passports without a surname field — check the FAQ section there before applying.
Sources reviewed: evisa.gov.vn / thithucdientu.gov.vn (National Portal on Immigration, Vietnam Immigration Department), Vietnamese embassy consular pages. Eligible-country lists and fees change — always confirm on the official portal before applying.