Vietnam Visa for Australians (Australia) – How to apply

Do Australians need a visa for Vietnam?

Yes, Australians need a visa to enter Vietnam. Without it, you won’t even be allowed on the plane. Airlines verify your visa during the check-in process, so having it ready is crucial. Since processing can take several days, ensure you apply well before your trip.

Visa-free entry not available for Australian citizens

Vietnam’s visa-free entry is available for travelers from a limited number of countries, mostly in Europe and Southeast Asia, with stays ranging from 30 to 45 days. Unfortunately, Australians do not qualify for this exemption and must obtain a visa before visiting Vietnam.

Vietnam e-visa: Best option for Australians

For Australians, the process of obtaining a visa for Vietnam is much easier now, thanks to the e-visa system. This replaces the old visa-on-arrival method, where you had to request an approval letter through a travel agency, pay additional fees, and provide passport photos. With the e-visa, everything can be done online through the official Vietnamese Immigration website.

Important to know:

• Validity: The e-visa is valid for up to 90 days, but it will only cover the exact number of days you select in your application. Make sure to specify your travel dates carefully.
• Processing time: It takes 3 to 5 working days to process an e-visa. Weekends and public holidays in Vietnam are not included, so apply well in advance. If you make a mistake, you can correct it, but it will reset the 3-5 day timeline.

Steps to Apply for a Vietnam e-visa

Step 1: Use the official website of the Vietnamese Immigration Department

There are many third-party visa services offering Vietnam visas, but using them means paying the standard fee plus their additional charges. You’ll also need to provide the same information and wait for their specific processing times, which could take longer.

For the most straightforward and cost-effective process, apply directly via the official Vietnamese Immigration website: https://evisa.gov.vn.

Step 2: Fill in all the information correctly

You will need to upload the following:

• A passport-sized photo.
• A clear scan or photo of your passport’s biographical page.

Double-check all your information before submitting. If there is a mistake, you’ll receive a notification to correct it, but this will restart the 3-5 working day processing time. If your name is incorrect and your e-visa is issued with the wrong details, it will be invalid, and you could be denied entry.

Tip: Read our complete guide, “Applying for a Vietnam e-visa,” to ensure your application is error-free and processed smoothly.

Step 3: Pay and wait

Pay the $25 USD application fee online. After payment, your application will be processed within 3 to 5 working days. Note that processing does not occur on weekends or official Vietnamese holidays.

Keep in mind:

• Allow for potential delays due to time zone differences.
• If you don’t receive a notification after a week, check your spam folder.

Step 4: Receive and print your e-visa

Although it’s acceptable to show your e-visa on your phone, it’s highly recommended to print a physical copy. This ensures you can present it anytime, even in areas with limited phone access or technical issues.

Vietnam Visa via embassy: Australia

Australians can apply for a Vietnam visa through an embassy in certain circumstances, although this option is becoming less common. Many embassies have stopped offering this service and now recommend using the e-visa platform. Before planning a visit, check with the embassy to ensure they still process visas.

Embassy applications tend to be pricier than online applications, but they may be a good alternative for travelers who prefer face-to-face assistance or need help navigating the process.

Vietnam visa via third-party agencies

Australians can arrange their e-visa directly through the official Vietnamese Immigration website, but many third-party agencies offer to manage this for you. These agencies often use the same platform, adding their service fees on top of the $25 visa fee. As a result, you’ll likely face additional costs and slightly longer processing times.

For those who find the process stressful, an agency can take care of everything for you. However, it’s worth weighing the convenience against the extra cost.

Emergency visa request

If you’re an Australian traveler heading to Vietnam and just realized you need a visa—or if your e-visa hasn’t been approved yet—don’t panic. Visa agencies can often handle emergency visa requests. These requests are managed offline, as the official e-visa website doesn’t offer expedited services. While the costs are higher, this option could save your trip and allow you to catch your flight.

Local Vietnam can assist Australians with emergency visa requests. We evaluate each situation to be upfront about the likelihood of success.

Vietnam Visa extensions

Australians looking to stay in Vietnam beyond their e-visa dates or the maximum 90 days should know that extensions are generally not possible. Exceptions are made for emergencies, such as medical reasons or a lost passport. In these cases, you’ll need to visit an immigration office, and processing will take a few days.

If you want to extend your stay simply to explore more of Vietnam, the best option is to leave the country and return with a new visa. While you can’t apply for a second e-visa on your own while in Vietnam, visa agents can assist. They can also arrange visa runs, helping you cross the border and re-enter with a new visa in hand.

FAQ about Vietnam visas