Australian citizens are required to obtain a visa before entering Vietnam. The most convenient option for most travelers is the Vietnam electronic visa, commonly known as the Vietnam e-visa. This visa allows Australian passport holders to stay in Vietnam for up to 90 days with either single or multiple entries.
Vietnam e-visa applications are submitted online through the official government portal. Standard processing usually takes around 3 working days, excluding weekends and public holidays. Travelers should also make sure their passport is valid for at least 6 months from the planned entry date.
Key Vietnam visa information for Australian citizens
Australian travelers can choose from several visa options depending on the purpose and length of their stay:
Vietnam e-visa: The most popular and convenient option for tourism and short business trips.
Visa on arrival: Requires an approval letter arranged before travel.
Traditional visa (Vietnam Embassy visa application): Usually used for special visa types, long-term stays, or cases where an e-visa is not suitable.
The Vietnam e-visa is valid for up to 90 days and may be issued for either single or multiple entries. The official processing time is generally 3 working days, but delays can happen during peak travel periods or public holidays.
Vietnam e-visa requirements for Australian citizens
To apply for a Vietnam e-visa, Australian citizens need to prepare the following documents:
- A passport valid for at least 6 months
- A scanned copy of the passport information page
- A recent 4×6 cm passport-sized photo with a white background
- A valid credit or debit card to pay the visa fee
After submitting the application, travelers will receive a registration code. This code should be saved because it is needed to check the visa status online.
Once approved, the e-visa should be printed and presented upon arrival at one of Vietnam’s approved international entry points, including designated airports, land borders, and seaports.
How to apply for a Vietnam visa for Australian citizens
1. Vietnam e-visa
The Vietnam e-visa is the recommended option for most Australian citizens. It is suitable for tourism, short business visits, and flexible travel plans.
To apply, visit the official Vietnam National Electronic visa system and complete the online form. You will need to upload your passport scan, passport-style photo, and pay the non-refundable visa fee.
After submission, keep your registration code and check your application status regularly. When your visa is approved, print a copy and carry it with you when traveling to Vietnam.
2. Visa application through the Vietnam Embassy
A traditional embassy visa may be required for certain visa categories, such as long-term work, diplomatic travel, or cases where an e-visa application is not successful.
Australian citizens can apply through the Embassy of Vietnam in Australia. The process usually requires submitting the original passport, a completed application form, photos, and the visa fee. Applications may be submitted in person or by mail.
3. Vietnam visa on arrival
Visa on arrival is arranged through a travel agency before departure. The agency provides an approval letter, which allows the traveler to collect the visa at an international airport in Vietnam.
This option may be useful in urgent cases, but travelers should understand the requirements carefully before choosing this method.
There are some differences between Vietnam e-visa, visa on arrival and traditional visa. However, once issued they have exactly same validity and condition of use:
| Description | Vietnam e-visa | Visa on arrival | Embassy visa |
|---|---|---|---|
| Application | Online | Online | In person or by post |
| Processing time | 2 hours to 5 working days | 5-7 working days | 5-7 working days |
| Entry points | Airports, landports or sea ports | Airports | Airports, landports or sea ports |
| Passport required | No | No | Yes |
| Visa stamping fee | Not required | Required | Not required |
| Best for | Most travelers | Air travelers | Those near embassy |
Common Vietnam e-visa mistakes you should avoid
Many Vietnam e-visa delays and rejections are caused by simple mistakes. Checking your information carefully before submission can help avoid unnecessary problems.
Incorrect personal or passport details
Misspelled names, wrong passport numbers, missing middle names, or incorrect dates are common reasons for rejection. All information must match the passport exactly.
Insufficient passport validity
Your passport should be valid for at least 6 months from your planned arrival date. If your passport does not meet this requirement, you may be denied boarding or entry.
Invalid photo submission
Your photo should be recent, clear, passport-style, and taken against a plain white background. Photos with busy backgrounds, glasses, heavy editing, or poor quality may be rejected.
Applying too late
Although standard processing is usually 3 working days, delays can happen. It is best to apply at least 1 to 2 weeks before departure.
What to do if your Vietnam e-visa is delayed
If your Vietnam e-visa is taking longer than expected, first check your application status on the official e-visa portal. Use your registration code, email address, and date of birth to search for updates.
Sometimes an application may be approved before the confirmation email arrives. You should also check your spam or junk folder.
If the application has been returned for correction, review the instructions carefully and update the required information as soon as possible.
If your flight is within the next 24 to 48 hours, you may need to contact a reputable visa agency for urgent assistance. We offer rush processing or help with pending applications.
You may also contact the Vietnam Immigration Department directly by email at foreigners@immigration.gov.vn or by phone at +84.24.382.640.26.
Common reasons for Vietnam e-visa delays
Vietnam e-visa delays may happen for several reasons, including:
- Incorrect passport details
- Blurry passport scans
- Photos that do not meet requirements
- Public holidays or weekends
- High application volume
- Applications submitted through the wrong website
To reduce the risk of delay, apply early and review every detail carefully before submitting your application.
How to expedite a Vietnam e-visa application
The official Vietnam e-visa system does not offer a guaranteed public expedited processing option. If you need a visa urgently, we can assist with rush processing.
We offer urgent services that may process applications within a few working hours or within 1 business day. However, fees are usually higher than the standard government fee.
If you already submitted an application, we are able to help speed up the pending case by using your registration code and application details.
In emergency situations, we may also arrange an approval letter for visa on arrival at the airport.