Vietnam e-Visa: Tips to Make the Application Go Smoothly

Apply early, have the right documents, don’t overthink it

Vietnam’s e-visa process is genuinely simple but a few things trip people up. Here’s what I’ve learned from applying multiple times and helping friends sort out their applications.

The photo requirement

The official requirement is a color photo with white background, taken within 6 months, no glasses, plain expression, full face visible. The system has a face detection component — if your photo doesn’t register properly, the application flags it. Use a properly sized, well-lit photo rather than a selfie or a photo in which you’re wearing sunglasses or looking away from the camera.

The passport scan

Upload the bio data page of your passport (the page with your photo, personal information, and passport number). The scan needs to be clear and fully legible — don’t crop out any information. If the text is blurry or cut off, the application may be rejected or delayed.

Entry point selection

The application asks for your intended entry and exit points. This matters — if you arrive at a different port of entry than specified, you may be denied boarding at your origin airport. Select the correct entry point. If your plans change, you can typically amend the entry point through the portal before travel, though the rules on this have changed — check current guidance.

Common mistakes to avoid

Applying on unofficial third-party sites that charge $50–100+ for the same application the official portal does for $25. The official portal is evisa.xuatnhapcanh.gov.vn — anything else charging significantly more is a middleman. Waiting until the last minute — apply 7–10 days before travel for buffer. Entering dates wrong — Vietnamese date format is different from American format (DD/MM/YYYY).