VLIC CONSULTING

Electronic Visa (E-Visa) — VLIC Consulting
Special Topic
Electronic Visa (E-Visa) — Issued to Foreigners in Vietnam
Comprehensive Legal Guide · Updated 2026

Electronic
Visa
E-Visa VN

Since August 15, 2023, Vietnam issues E-Visas to citizens of all countries and territories worldwide — 100% online procedure, no need to visit an Embassy or have a sponsoring agency.

Maximum stay duration of 90 days, single or multiple entry. Fees start from 25 USD. Results are delivered via email within 3–5 working days.

4 Key Highlights of Vietnam E-Visa 2026
🌐
Scope of Application
Issued to Citizens of All Countries & Territories
Effective from August 15, 2023, under Resolution 127/NQ-CP — no nationality restrictions, applicable to all 241 countries and territories worldwide.
241 countries/territories
📅
Stay Duration
Maximum 90 days — Single or Multiple Entry
Increased from 30 days to 90 days under Law 23/2023/QH15. You can choose a single entry or multiple entries.
90 days / 3 months
💻
100% Online
Level 4 Administrative Procedure — No Sponsorship Required
Registration, document upload, payment, and result retrieval are completely online at evisa.gov.vn. No sponsoring agency or embassy visit required.
evisa.gov.vn
🚪
Border Gates
Over 40 International Checkpoints — Air, Land, Sea
Resolution 389/NQ-CP dated December 2, 2025, added new checkpoints. Currently applicable at 40+ international checkpoints, including all international airports in Vietnam.
Res 389/2025 · Expanded checkpoints
241
Countries eligible for E-Visa
90
Maximum stay days
40+
International checkpoints applicable
3–5
Working days for processing
01
Concept · Article 18a Immigration Law 2014 (amended 2019) · Res 127/2023

What is an Electronic Visa (E-Visa)?
6 Core Legal Characteristics

An E-Visa is a visa issued via an electronic transaction system, completely replacing the passport sticker format. This is a level 4 administrative procedure in Vietnam — 100% online registration and payment.

1
Format
PDF File via Email — No Passport Sticker
E-Visas are issued as a PDF file sent to the registered email, containing full details: visa code, personal information, passport number, validity period, visa type, and permitted entry checkpoint. Must be printed on A4 paper to present upon entry — electronic copies on mobile phones are not accepted.
2
Legal Validity
Equivalent to Traditional Visa — Legal Basis for Entry
An E-Visa holds the same legal validity as a traditional sticker visa. It is the basis for foreigners to legally enter and reside in Vietnam within the period stated on the visa. It is officially recognized at all international checkpoints designated by the Government.
3
Symbol
EV Symbol — Distinguished from Other Visa Types
Electronic visas carry the symbol EV according to Law No. 30/VBHN-VPQH. The validity period is clearly stated on the E-Visa in the format "Good for entry valid from… until…". Note: the actual stay duration is decided by the immigration officer at the checkpoint and may be shorter than the visa's validity period.
4
Purpose
Tourism, Business, Family Visit, Investment Seeking…
E-Visas are suitable for short-term entry purposes: tourism, business, family visits, startups, and seeking investment opportunities. Not suitable for long-term purposes such as employment (requires a work permit) or settlement.
5
Limitation
No Extension — Maximum 90 Days Per Application
E-Visas cannot be extended after issuance. Upon expiration, foreigners must exit the country and apply for a new E-Visa, or switch to another suitable visa type if eligible. Intentional overstaying will result in administrative penalties and affect future visa applications.
6
Authority
Immigration Department — Ministry of Public Security
E-Visas are issued by the Immigration Department – Ministry of Public Security through the official electronic system at evisa.gov.vn. Applicants must apply directly on this portal — avoid fraudulent websites.
"The E-Visa is a strategic transformation for Vietnam — from a 'restricted gateway' to an 'open gateway' for all global citizens, boosting tourism, commerce, and foreign investment."
— VLIC Legal Advisory · Analysis of Vietnam Immigration Policies 2023–2026
02
Conditions & Documents · Level 4 Administrative Procedure

Conditions for E-Visa Issuance &
Required Documents

The conditions for obtaining an E-Visa are much simpler than traditional visas — no sponsoring agency needed, no embassy visits. However, certain basic requirements must still be met.

📋
Documents to prepare
before applying online
—Passport valid for ≥ 6 months: A clear, full-information photo of the passport biographical page in .jpg format. The passport must be valid for at least 6 months from the intended date of entry.
—Portrait photo: A front-facing photo without glasses, on a white background, in a clear .jpg format, sized according to requirements. This is a mandatory requirement and often a reason for rejection if incorrect.
—International payment card: An international credit or debit card (Visa, Mastercard) to pay the E-Visa fee online. Fees are non-refundable even if the application is rejected.
—Itinerary details: Intended date of entry, entry checkpoint, and residential address in Vietnam (hotel name / address). Must be prepared before filling out the form.
—Valid email: An accurate email address to receive the electronic application code and the E-Visa PDF result. Check the spam folder if you do not receive a confirmation email.
⚠
Legal conditions
& cases for rejection
—Not banned from entry: According to Article 21 of the 2014 Immigration Law — forged documents, dangerous infectious diseases, unexpired deportation periods, or national defense/security reasons.
—Information must match data: The system automatically cross-checks with population/passport databases. Any minor discrepancies in name, passport number, or date of birth can lead to automatic rejection.
—Access the correct official website: Only apply at evisa.gov.vn (Immigration Department – Ministry of Public Security). Many fake websites charge higher fees and do not guarantee results.
—Non-refundable fees: The 25 USD (single) or 50 USD (multiple) fees are not refunded even if rejected. Check carefully before paying.
—Cannot be extended: Once an E-Visa expires, it is over — there is no online extension mechanism. Must apply anew or change visa types. Pay attention to timelines to avoid overstaying.
03
Procedural Steps · evisa.gov.vn · Immigration Dept – MPS

3 Steps to Apply for E-Visa —
Entirely Executed Online

The Vietnam E-Visa application process is designed for maximum simplicity and convenience — done completely online, with no physical documents, no sponsorship, and no need to visit any agency.

Preparation · Access evisa.gov.vn
Prepare Passport File & Portrait Photo
Before accessing the system, prepare: passport bio page photo (.jpg file), portrait photo (front-facing, no glasses), entry date + checkpoint + accommodation info, and an international payment card.
Step 1
Fill the declaration form & upload documents
Go to evisa.gov.vn. Fully enter personal information matching your passport, purpose of entry, intended date of entry, checkpoint, and accommodation address. Upload your passport photo and portrait photo. The system issues an electronic application code after this step.
Step 2 · Payment
Pay fees online via international card
Pay fees via the electronic payment portal: 25 USD for single-entry E-Visa or 50 USD for multiple-entry E-Visa. Pay with an international credit/debit card (Visa, Mastercard). Note: fees are non-refundable under any circumstances.
Step 3 · 3–5 Working Days
Check results & print E-Visa
Use your electronic application code to check results on evisa.gov.vn or wait for an email notification. If approved: print the E-Visa on A4 paper to present with your original passport at the checkpoint. A printed copy is mandatory — phone copies are not accepted.
Entry
Present printed E-Visa + Passport at checkpoint
Submit the printed E-Visa and original passport at the immigration control counter. The immigration officer stamps and notes the actual temporary residence period in your passport — which could be less than 90 days. Always check the stamp to know your exact departure date.
Note on processing time: Typically 3–5 working days, some cases up to 7 working days depending on the application and nationality. If urgent, VLIC supports expedited services to receive results within 4 hours to 1 working day. It is advisable to apply at least 7–10 days before your flight.
Important Technical Information
Sole Official Website Only apply at evisa.gov.vn by the Immigration Department – MPS. Avoid similar-sounding websites — they charge higher fees and are not government agencies.
Portrait Photo Requirements Front-facing photo, no glasses, no hats, white background, face taking up 70-80% of the frame. Clear .jpg file. This is the most common reason for rejection.
Checking Results Go to "E-visa search" on evisa.gov.vn. Enter: registration code + registered email + date of birth + passport number. Check spam folders if you miss system emails.
If Application is Rejected Review the rejection reason, fix errors, and submit a new application (must pay fees a second time). VLIC supports analyzing the cause and preparing correct documents to increase approval odds.
Actual Temporary Stay Period Decided by the immigration officer at the checkpoint, may be less than 90 days. Always check the passport stamp stating "Length of stay…" to know exactly when to depart Vietnam.
04
Fees · Circular 62/2023/TT-BTC · Ministry of Finance

E-Visa Fee Schedule —
Updated 2026

Vietnam E-Visa fees are clearly regulated under Circular 62/2023/TT-BTC. There are only 2 simple fee tiers based on entry type, applied uniformly to all nationalities.

E-Visa Type Number of Entries Maximum Duration State Fee Notes
Single-Entry E-Visa
Single Entry
Strictly 1 time. Leaving the country voids the visa even if unexpired. 90 days 25 USD Non-refundable even if rejected
Multiple-Entry E-Visa
Multiple Entry
Multiple entries and exits throughout the 90-day visa validity. 90 days 50 USD Non-refundable even if rejected
Important Note: The above fees are official state fees — non-refundable under any circumstances, even upon rejection. If using an intermediary consulting service, separate service fees will apply. VLIC supports preparing standard-compliant applications to minimize rejection risks — protecting the client's paid fees.
05
Latest Policy Updates · 2025–2026

Crucial Changes
Regarding E-Visa 2025–2026

Vietnam E-Visa policies are continuously improving. Below are the most significant changes from late 2023 to 2026 that foreigners and businesses must know.

↑
Already Applied
Increased duration from 30 to 90 days
Since August 15, 2023, under Law 23/2023/QH15, E-Visa durations increased from 30 to 90 days (3 months) — the biggest breakthrough in Vietnam visa policy history, meeting the longer stay needs of tourists and business people.
🌏
Already Applied
Expanded to all 241 countries/territories
Since August 15, 2023, under Res 127/NQ-CP, E-Visas are no longer restricted to a country list — issued to all global citizens, including nations previously excluded from E-Visa eligibility.
🚪
New as of 12/2025
Added E-Visa Checkpoints — Res 389/2025
On December 2, 2025, the Government issued Res 389/NQ-CP adding to the list of international checkpoints permitting E-Visa entries — raising the total to over 40 across air, land, and sea.
🏷
From 1/7/2026
Added 2 new visa types UĐ1 & UĐ2 for talents
From July 1, 2026, the amended law introduces the UĐ1 visa (high-quality digital tech personnel, valid up to 5 years) and UĐ2 (spouse/children of UĐ1 holders). This clearly signals Vietnam's intent to attract foreign tech talent.
⚡
Note
E-Visa does not replace long-term work or investment visas
Despite its 90-day validity and broad purposes, an E-Visa does not substitute a work permit (required to work), an investor visa ĐT1-ĐT4 (needed to reside long-term as an investor), or a temporary residence card. Each scenario requires proper documentation.
🔗
Warning
Automated data checks — No room for informational errors
The E-Visa system now automatically cross-checks with population and passport databases. Any minor discrepancy in name (especially foreign names with accents), date of birth, or passport number can trigger automatic rejection — even if the information is fundamentally correct.
E-Visa Support Services
Consultation → Preparation → Submission → E-Visa Receipt
Initial Consultation
Free
Written Commitment
1
Consult on Suitable Visa Types

Determine if an E-Visa fits your stay's purpose and duration, or if you need an investor visa, work permit, or residence card. Avoid applying for the wrong type, wasting time and money.

2
Check & Standardize Documents

Thoroughly check portrait photos for compliance, passport photos for clarity, and ensure details match the passport exactly. This is the most crucial step to avoid rejection — especially for names with special characters.

3
Fill Forms & Submit on Your Behalf

Accurately fill the online form on the client's behalf, upload documents, and submit via evisa.gov.vn. Ensure data meets format rules, selecting the right checkpoint and entry date.

4
Track & Receive Results

Track application status, check results, and notify you as soon as the E-Visa is approved. Provide guidance on proper printing and checkpoint presentation for smooth entry.

5
Urgent Application Processing

Support urgent E-Visa services when immediate entry is required — partnering to process within 4 hours to 1 working day in special cases. Surcharges apply for urgent services.

6
Handling Rejections

Analyze rejection causes, correct errors, and resubmit new standard-compliant applications. Advise switching visa types if the E-Visa no longer fits the client's situation.

Frequently Asked
Questions

The most common practical scenarios when applying for and using Vietnam E-Visas — updated for 2026 regulations.

Ask for a consultation →
Q1 Can an E-Visa be extended? What happens when 90 days expire? +

No — E-Visas cannot be extended under current rules. Upon expiration, you are forced to exit Vietnam first. Then, you may apply for a new E-Visa (resubmitting and repurchasing) or switch to another suitable visa type (investor, temporary residence card...) if eligible. Overstaying leads to administrative fines and affects future visa applications.

Q2 How does a multiple-entry E-Visa differ from a single-entry? +

Single-entry E-Visa: grants exactly 1 entry to Vietnam within the 90 days — departing immediately voids the visa regardless of remaining days. Multiple-entry E-Visa: allows unrestricted entry and exit throughout the 90-day validity. Ideal for travelers planning multiple trips between Vietnam and other Southeast Asian countries over a long journey.

Q3 Japanese/Korean/US citizens are visa-exempt for Vietnam — do they need an E-Visa? +

It depends on the purpose and duration of stay. For instance: citizens of Japan, Korea, Germany... receive unilateral visa exemption for 45 days per entry. Stays ≤45 days do not require an E-Visa. But if staying longer than 45 days or desiring formal visa documentation, applying for a 90-day E-Visa is better. US citizens are not currently visa-exempt, so they must obtain an E-Visa or traditional visa.

Q4 I am in Vietnam on a soon-to-expire E-Visa — can I apply for a new one from within Vietnam? +

E-Visas are designed to be applied for from abroad prior to entry — not for domestic extensions. However, technically the system does not forbid applying while inside Vietnam. The risk is if the old E-Visa expires while awaiting the new one (3-5 days), you fall into overstay status. It is better to apply for a new E-Visa at least 7 days before the current one expires, or depart and return with a new E-Visa.

Q5 Can I work for a company in Vietnam using an E-Visa? +

No — E-Visas do not permit paid employment in Vietnam. To work legally, foreigners must hold a Work Permit (GPLĐ) under the 2019 Labor Code and Decree 152/2020. Using an E-Visa for work is illegal — risking fines, deportation, and entry bans. If you seek employment or startup opportunities, VLIC advises on the correct legal roadmap from E-Visa → Work Permit → Temporary Residence Card.

Q6 E-Visa rejected — will I get a refund and what is the next step? +

Fees are non-refundable in all cases, including rejections. Upon rejection, check system notifications for the cause (usually: incorrect photos, faulty details, expiring passports, or being on a banned list). After fixing errors, submit a new application and repay the fee. VLIC supports analyzing the root cause and repreparing documents to boost approval chances.

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