How Long Does Vietnam Visa Processing Take? Timeline by Method

Key Takeaways

• E-visa processing takes 3–5 working days for stays up to 90 days for all nationalities in 2025.
• Visa on Arrival requires a 2–4 day pre-approval letter, valid only for air arrivals.
• Embassy/Consulate visas take 5–7 working days, with express options available for some locations.

If you’re planning a trip to Vietnam 🇻🇳 in 2025, understanding the Vietnam Visa process and its timelines is essential. Whether you’re a tourist, business traveler, or visiting family, knowing how long your visa will take can help you avoid last-minute stress and ensure a smooth journey. This reference guide provides a detailed, category-by-category breakdown of Vietnam Visa processing times, with clear explanations, practical tips, and official resources for every step.

Purpose and Overview

The Vietnam Visa system offers several ways for travelers to enter the country, each with its own process and timeline. The most popular method is the e-visa, which is now available to all nationalities and allows stays of up to 90 days. Other options include Visa on Arrival (VOA) and applying through a Vietnamese embassy or consulate. This guide explains each method, how long it takes, what you need to do, and how to avoid common problems.

Vietnam Visa Application Methods: Categories and Timelines

1. E-Visa (Online Application)

What is it?
The e-visa is an electronic visa that you apply for online. It’s the fastest and most convenient way for most travelers to get permission to enter Vietnam 🇻🇳. As of 2025, all nationalities can use this system, and you can choose between single or multiple entry for up to 90 days.

Processing Time:
– Standard: 3–5 working days after you submit your application and pay the fee.
– Expedited (through agencies): Some private agencies offer faster service (4–8 working hours), but this is not available on the official government website.
– Delays: Processing can take longer during busy travel seasons, holidays, or if your application has mistakes.

Key Points:
– Apply at least 2 weeks before your trip to avoid last-minute problems.
– No group applications: Each person, including children, must apply separately.
– No official urgent option on the government portal, but third-party agencies may offer faster service for an extra fee.
– Fees: $25 USD for single entry, $50 USD for multiple entry, paid online.
– Validity: Up to 90 days, single or multiple entry.
– Official Application Portal: Vietnam E-Visa Portal

Step-by-Step Process:
1. Prepare documents: Scan or take clear photos of your passport data page and a passport-style photo.
2. Apply online: Go to the official e-visa portal and fill out the application.
3. Pay the fee: Use a credit or debit card to pay online.
4. Wait for processing: Usually 3–5 working days, but sometimes longer.
5. Check your status: Use your registration code and date of birth to check the portal.
6. Download and print your e-visa: You’ll need to show this when you arrive in Vietnam 🇻🇳.

Common Reasons for Delay:
– Mistakes or missing information in your application.
– Poor quality or incorrect photos.
– Applying right before or during Vietnamese public holidays.

Practical Guidance:
Always double-check your information and documents before submitting. If you’re traveling during a busy season, apply even earlier to avoid delays.

2. Visa on Arrival (VOA)

What is it?
Visa on Arrival is a process where you get a pre-approval letter online, then receive your visa when you land at a Vietnamese airport. This method is only for travelers arriving by air.

Processing Time:
– Standard: 2–4 working days to get the pre-approval letter.
– Urgent: Some agencies can provide the letter within 1 day for an extra fee.

How It Works:
1. Apply for a pre-approval letter: Use a Vietnamese travel agency or visa service online.
2. Receive the letter by email: Print it out.
3. Arrive in Vietnam 🇻🇳: Show the letter, your passport, and a passport photo at the airport.
4. Pay the stamping fee: $25 USD for single entry, $50 USD for multiple entry, paid in cash at the airport.
5. Get your visa stamped: You’ll receive your visa at the airport after paying the fee.

Important Notes:
– Only for air arrivals: You can’t use VOA if you’re entering by land or sea.
– Pre-approval letter is required: You must have this letter before you fly.
– Fees: Stamping fee is paid in cash at the airport.

Practical Guidance:
If you need to travel urgently and can’t wait for an e-visa, VOA with urgent processing might be your best option. Always use a reputable agency and check their reviews.

3. Embassy or Consulate Visa

What is it?
This is the traditional way to get a Vietnam Visa. You apply in person or by mail at a Vietnamese embassy or consulate in your country.

Processing Time:
– Standard: 5–7 working days.
– Express: Some embassies offer faster service (2–3 days) for an extra fee.

How It Works:
1. Prepare your documents: Passport, photos, completed application form, and the visa fee.
2. Submit your application: Go to the nearest Vietnamese embassy or consulate, or mail your documents if allowed.
3. Wait for processing: Standard time is 5–7 days, but it can be faster if you pay for express service.
4. Collect your visa: Pick up your passport with the visa inside, or receive it by mail.

Fees:
Visa fees vary by embassy and visa type. Always check with the specific embassy or consulate for the latest information.

Practical Guidance:
This method is best if you want a visa in your passport before you travel, need a special visa type, or plan to stay longer than 90 days.

Timeline Comparison Table

Policy Background and Recent Developments

• E-visa expansion: Since August 2023, Vietnam 🇻🇳 has allowed all nationalities to apply for an e-visa, with stays up to 90 days and options for single or multiple entry.
• Digitalization: The e-visa system is now the main way for most short-term visitors to enter Vietnam 🇻🇳, making the process faster and easier.
• No recent changes: As of June 2025, there have been no major updates to processing times or eligibility.

Detailed Usage Guidance and Practical Tips

When to Apply

• Apply early: Always submit your Vietnam Visa application at least 2–3 weeks before your planned trip, especially during busy travel seasons or holidays.
• Check your documents: Make sure your passport is valid for at least 6 months after your planned entry date.
• Double-check your application: Mistakes or missing information can cause delays or even rejection.

Choosing the Right Method

• E-visa: Best for most travelers, especially if you’re entering through major airports, seaports, or land borders.
• Visa on Arrival: Useful for urgent trips or if you can’t access the e-visa system, but only works for air arrivals.
• Embassy/Consulate: Recommended for longer stays, special visa types, or if you want a visa in your passport before you leave.

Avoiding Delays

• Avoid peak periods: Vietnamese public holidays and busy travel seasons can slow down processing.
• Use official channels: Always apply through the official e-visa portal or a trusted agency.
• Keep copies: Print and carry copies of your visa approval and all important documents.

Fees and Payment

• E-visa: $25 USD (single entry), $50 USD (multiple entry), paid online.
• VOA stamping fee: $25–$50 USD, paid in cash at the airport.
• Embassy/Consulate: Fees vary; check with the specific office.

Cross-References and Official Resources

• Vietnam E-Visa Official Portal: evisa.xuatnhapcanh.gov.vn
• Vietnam Immigration Department: xuatnhapcanh.gov.vn
• Vietnam Embassy in the United States 🇺🇸: vietnamembassy-usa.org
• Vietnam Consulate in Australia 🇦🇺: vietnamconsulate-sydney.org

For the latest updates or if you have special circumstances, contact the Vietnam Immigration Department or your nearest Vietnamese embassy.

Common Scenarios and Case Examples

Scenario 1:
A tourist from France 🇫🇷 applies for an e-visa two weeks before her trip. She uploads a clear passport photo and fills in all details correctly. She receives her e-visa in 4 days and prints it out for her flight.

Scenario 2:
A business traveler from the United States 🇺🇸 needs to fly to Vietnam 🇻🇳 on short notice. He uses a reputable agency to get a VOA pre-approval letter in 1 day, then pays the stamping fee at the airport.

Scenario 3:
A student from India 🇮🇳 wants to stay in Vietnam 🇻🇳 for more than 90 days. She applies for a student visa at the Vietnamese embassy in New Delhi. The process takes 6 days, and she receives her visa before departure.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I apply for a Vietnam Visa for my whole family at once?
A: No, each person must apply separately for an e-visa. There are no group applications.

Q: What if my e-visa is delayed?
A: Delays can happen during busy times or if your application has mistakes. Check your email and the official portal regularly. If you don’t get a response after 7 days, contact the Vietnam Immigration Department.

Q: Is there an official urgent e-visa option?
A: No, the government portal does not offer an urgent option. Some agencies claim to process e-visas faster for a fee, but always check their reputation before using them.

Q: Can I use Visa on Arrival if I enter Vietnam 🇻🇳 by land?
A: No, VOA is only for travelers arriving by air.

Q: How do I know if my visa is approved?
A: For e-visas, check the status on the official portal using your registration code and date of birth.

Future Outlook

• No major changes expected: The e-visa system will likely remain the main entry method for most visitors in the near future.
• Ongoing improvements: Vietnam 🇻🇳 continues to improve its digital visa system, making it easier and faster for travelers.
• Stakeholders: The Vietnam Immigration Department manages the e-visa system, while embassies and consulates handle traditional visa applications.

Summary Table: Vietnam Visa Processing Times (2025)

Actionable Takeaways

• Apply early: Start your Vietnam Visa application process at least 2–3 weeks before your trip.
• Choose the right method: E-visa is best for most, but VOA and embassy visas are available for special cases.
• Double-check everything: Make sure your documents and information are correct to avoid delays.
• Use official resources: Always use the official e-visa portal or contact your nearest embassy for help.
• Stay updated: For the latest news and changes, check official government websites before you travel.

As reported by VisaVerge.com, the e-visa system has made travel to Vietnam 🇻🇳 much easier for people from around the world, but careful planning and attention to detail are still important for a smooth experience.

For more information and the latest updates, visit the Vietnam Immigration Department’s official website.

By following this guide, you can better plan your trip, choose the right Vietnam Visa option, and avoid common problems with processing time. Safe travels!

Learn Today

E-visa → An electronic visa applied online allowing up to 90-day stays with single or multiple entries into Vietnam.
Visa on Arrival (VOA) → A visa issued at Vietnamese airports after receiving a pre-approval letter online for air travelers.
Pre-approval Letter → Official document required for Visa on Arrival, obtained online from a Vietnamese agency before travel.
Embassy/Consulate Visa → Traditional visa method obtained in person or by mail at official Vietnamese diplomatic missions abroad.
Expedited Processing → A faster visa application service offered by some agencies for an additional fee, not official government option.

This Article in a Nutshell

Planning to visit Vietnam in 2025? Choose from e-visa, Visa on Arrival, or embassy application methods. Apply two weeks early to avoid delays and ensure smooth entry. The e-visa is fastest, but urgent options exist for VOA and embassies. Check official portals for guidance and fees.
— By VisaVerge.com