Vietnam Visa: E-VISA and Visa-Free Entry

Obtaining a Vietnam visa is generally not difficult, but being too complacent can lead to significant issues. Incorrectly inputting information or not being aware of necessary requirements can result in being denied boarding or entry into the country. Enjoying the beautiful scenery of Vietnam and having a relaxing holiday is only possible with a valid visa. In this article, we will explore Vietnam’s E-Visa and visa-free entry options.

Caution

Visa regulations can change frequently, so please refer to this article but also check for any updates on the Immigration Department’s website.

Vietnam Visa-Free Entry vs. E-VISA

When visiting Vietnam for tourism or travel, you typically choose between an E-Visa or visa-free entry. Refer to the information below to choose the visa that best suits your needs. Regardless of the visa type, your passport must be valid for at least six months. For visa-free entry, you will need to present a return or onward ticket upon entry. Print out your e-ticket and present it when required.

Visa-free entry is allowed for citizens of the UK, Spain, Italy, Germany, France, Finland, Sweden, Norway, Denmark, Russia, South Korea, Japan, and more. You can find the specific visa regulations for each nationality on the Vietnam Immigration Department’s website.

Vietnam E-Visa: A Visa Allowing Up to 90 Days Stay

1) Vietnam E-Visa Duration

Vietnam’s e-visa is mainly used for tourism and business travel. Before August 15, 2023, the maximum stay with an E-Visa was only 30 days, but the law was amended to allow up to 90 days. The final decision on the duration is made by the Immigration Department, but it is typically up to 90 days from the date of entry.

2) Applying for a Vietnam E-Visa

• You can apply through the Vietnam Immigration Department’s visa application website.
• Even minor mistakes in your application can lead to rejection, so follow the Immigration Department’s guidelines carefully.
• If your application is rejected, you will need to correct it and reapply. After resubmitting, it can take over three days to receive a response.

Repeated rejections can make it difficult to travel on schedule, so it is advisable to apply for your visa at least two weeks before your departure date.

3) Filling Out the Vietnam E-Visa Application

Carefully read the instructions on the visa application website.

Processing Time

While the official processing time is stated as within three business days, various factors such as errors in the application can cause delays.

Passport Information Page and Photo

• Prepare an image of the passport information page showing your photo and personal details.
• Submit a photo of yourself looking directly at the camera without glasses.
• Photos that obscure your face with accessories or glasses or do not show your ears can lead to visa denial.
• Even if there are issues with the photo, you are usually given a chance to correct it, but this can prolong the visa processing time, so be careful.

Application Fee

The fee for an E-Visa depends on whether you will enter once or multiple times during your stay.

• $25 for a single-entry electronic visa
• $50 for a multiple-entry electronic visa

Filling Out the Application Form

• Refer to the sample passport information page on the visa application page and enter your name exactly as shown.
• For South Koreans, there can be confusion about spacing in English names, which often causes issues.
• Similarly, names that are relatively long and complex depending on the nationality require careful attention.
• There can also be issues with the address where you will stay, so enter it accurately and in detail.

4) Checking Your Application Status

You can check the status of your application on the Vietnam visa application confirmation and issuance page.

After applying for the visa, you will receive a registration code sent to your registered email.

You can use the registration code to access the visa confirmation and issuance page.

5) Visa Issuance

If all steps are completed successfully, you can download your visa from the confirmation page.

Make sure to print out the downloaded visa and keep it with you.

Living in Vietnam for a Month and Visas

If you plan to stay in Vietnam for a month, visa-free entry is sufficient. With a maximum stay of 45 days allowed, there is ample time for unforeseen circumstances. The E-Visa process is also relatively straightforward, so if you plan to extend your stay beyond a month, obtaining an E-Visa might be more convenient.