Vietnam Visa for Australians: Application Guide

Vietnam is a top destination for Australian travelers, known for its rich culture, history, and breathtaking landscapes. However, before you pack your bags, it's essential to secure the correct visa to enter the country. As an Australian citizen, you need to apply for a visa for any purpose, whether tourism, business, or family visits.

This guide from Your Vietnam Travel walks you through everything you need to know about applying for a Vietnam visa. It covers the various types of visas available, the application process, required documents, and fees.

Do Australian citizens need a visa to enter Vietnam?

Yes, Australian citizens are required to have a valid visa to enter Vietnam for any purpose. This includes tourism, business, family visits, investment, and journalism activities.

Vietnam does not allow visa-free or visa-on-arrival entry for Australians. Therefore, it is essential to obtain a visa prior to your trip.

The most convenient option is the eVisa, which can be processed entirely online. Typically, eVisas are approved within three to five business days. With an eVisa, you can stay in Vietnam for up to 90 days, whether you're traveling for tourism or other reasons.

To apply for a visa, you will need a passport with at least six months of validity beyond your planned arrival date and at least two blank pages. Various types of visas are available depending on the purpose of your visit, including tourist visas, business visas, work visas, study visas, and family visit visas.

Australian citizens need a valid visa to enter Vietnam (Source: Collected)

Are there any visa exemptions or exceptions available?

Vietnam offers a visa exemption for overseas Vietnamese residing in Australia, as well as their spouses and children, allowing them to obtain a 5-year visa exemption certificate. To apply, individuals should reach out to their nearest Vietnamese embassy or consulate for detailed guidance.

Visa Exemption for Australian Citizens:

Australian citizens are generally required to obtain a visa to enter Vietnam. However, there is a 5-year visa exemption available for Australian citizens who have Vietnamese relatives (such as a spouse, child, or parent) living in Vietnam. This exemption allows eligible individuals to visit Vietnam without needing a visa, but it applies specifically to family visits. Both the Australian citizen and their sponsor must submit documents that prove their family connection.

To qualify for the 5-year visa exemption, the Australian citizen must meet the following conditions:

• The applicant must hold an Australian passport that is valid for at least one year.
• The applicant must have a Vietnamese sponsor (a close relative who is a Vietnamese citizen), with supporting documents such as a marriage certificate (for spouses) or birth certificate (for children or parents).
• The exemption is only valid for family visits and does not apply to business, tourism, or other purposes.

If you wish to apply for this exemption, it is important to contact the nearest Vietnamese embassy or consulate for further guidance and to submit the required documents.

Learn more: Vietnam 5-Year Visa: Requirements and How to Apply

Requirements for Australians to apply for a Vietnam visa

For Australian citizens wishing to visit Vietnam, several steps must be followed to successfully apply for a visa. The first requirement is a passport that remains valid for at least 6 months beyond the intended date of entry into Vietnam. Additionally, applicants must determine the specific type of visa they require based on the purpose of their visit, whether it be for tourism, business, or family-related reasons. Each type of visa may necessitate submitting different supporting documents.

The visa application process offers two primary methods: online and in-person at a Vietnamese consulate.

• E-Visa Application: This is a convenient option for many travelers. Australians can apply for an e-visa through the official Vietnamese government website. The process involves filling out a straightforward online application form, uploading a passport-sized photo, and paying the visa fee electronically. The e-visa allows for a stay of up to 30 days and is typically processed within 3-5 business days, making it a fast and efficient option for travelers on a tight schedule.
• Consulate Visa Application: For those who prefer or need a different type of visa, such as a longer stay or a multiple-entry visa, applying at the Vietnamese consulate in Australia is the next best option. This process requires submitting the visa application along with supporting documents such as flight bookings, hotel reservations, and an invitation letter (for business or family visits). Processing times for consulate applications can vary, typically taking several days to a few weeks depending on the type of visa requested.

It is also essential to understand that the Vietnamese government may impose additional entry requirements, such as proof of financial means or a return ticket. Travelers are advised to check the latest updates on visa policies, as regulations may change.

Before applying, Australian citizens should confirm their eligibility and gather all necessary documentation to avoid delays. It’s also a good idea to plan the application well in advance of the planned departure date to ensure a smooth travel experience.

Australian citizens should check eligibility and apply early (Source: Collected)

How long is the Vietnam visa valid for Australians?

The validity of a Vietnam visa for Australian citizens depends on the type of visa they apply for. Typically, there are several options available:

• Tourist Visa: The most common tourist visa for Australians is the single-entry e-visa. Typically, eVisas are granted for up to 30 days, but they can be extended up to 90 days if necessary. If you plan to stay longer than 30 days, you can apply for an extension within Vietnam, or you may choose a different type of visa, such as a multiple-entry visa or a longer-term visa through a Vietnamese consulate.
• Business Visa: Business visas are generally issued for 1, 3, or 6 months. These visas may be either single or multiple-entry, depending on the specific requirements of the applicant and their purpose of visit.
• Visa on Arrival: This visa type, available for those entering Vietnam by air, can be valid for a stay ranging from 1 to 3 months, depending on the applicant's needs and the approval from the Vietnamese immigration authorities.

The length of validity for all types of visas starts from the date of issuance, and the number of entries (single or multiple) will also affect how long you can stay in Vietnam. It’s important to note that overstaying a visa in Vietnam can result in fines, deportation, or a ban on future travel to the country.

To ensure a smooth trip, Australian citizens should carefully check the details of their visa approval and stay within the permitted duration.

How much does a Vietnam visa cost for Australian citizens?

The cost of a Vietnam visa for Australian citizens depends on the type of visa you choose and the duration of your stay.

• E-Visa: A Vietnam e-visa typically costs around $25 USD for a single-entry visa and $50 USD for a multiple-entry visa. This visa is valid for stays of up to 90 days.
• Visa on Arrival: The visa on arrival option usually costs $25 USD for a single-entry visa and $50 USD for a multiple-entry visa. This does not include additional fees for the visa approval letter, which you must obtain before traveling.

In both cases, you may incur extra charges depending on factors like expedited processing times or other specific services. Additionally, for visa on arrival, there is also a visa stamp fee payable upon arrival in Vietnam.

Be sure to check the most current information as fees may change depending on the processing method and type of visa you select.

A guide to applying for a Vietnam visa for Australians

Applying for a Vietnam e-Visa

Australian citizens can easily apply for an e-visa to enter Vietnam, making it one of the most convenient options available. The e-visa is ideal for those seeking a simple and quick process without the need to visit an embassy or consulate.

• Processing time: Typically 3 - 7 business days
• Visa fees:
  • $25 for single entry
  • $50 for multiple entry

To apply for an e-visa, you can visit the official Vietnamese government portal at evisa.gov.vn  or choose to apply through a visa agency. The e-visa is valid for stays of up to 90 days and allows both single and multiple entries, making it a flexible option for short-term travel.

The process is entirely online, and you’ll receive your e-visa electronically, which you can print out and use upon arrival in Vietnam.

Vietnam Visa on Arrival

In addition to the e-visa, Australian travelers can apply for a visa on arrival, which allows you to obtain your visa when you reach a Vietnamese airport. However, before boarding your flight, you must secure a pre-approved visa letter through an online application.

• Validity: Up to 30 days, with options for single or multiple entries
• Processing time: 3 - 5 business days
• Visa fees:
  • $25 for single entry
  • $50 for multiple entry (does not include the visa approval letter fee)

To apply for a visa on arrival, you must first apply for a visa approval letter through a visa agency. Once you receive the letter, you can present it along with your passport upon arrival at one of Vietnam’s international airports to get your visa stamped.

This option is often chosen by travelers arriving by air who do not wish to deal with the online e-visa process or need a visa on short notice. However, it’s important to plan ahead, as you’ll need the approval letter before your flight.

Important Note:

• The visa stamp fee at the airport is not included in the visa application fees for both the e-visa and visa on arrival. This fee must be paid directly at the airport when you arrive in Vietnam.
• Choosing between an e-visa or a visa on arrival will depend on your travel preferences, the urgency of your trip, and how long you plan to stay in Vietnam. Both options are relatively simple and quick, but it's important to ensure that you apply with enough time to receive your approval letter or e-visa before you travel.

Vietnam visa guide for Australians (Source: Collected)

Should Australians choose the Vietnam e-Visa or Visa on arrival?

When planning a trip to Vietnam, Australian citizens have two primary visa options: the e-Visa and the Visa on Arrival. Both come with their own set of advantages and considerations, and choosing between them depends largely on your preferences and travel needs.

Here’s a comparison to help you decide which visa option suits you best:

E-Visa

• Eligibility: Available to Australian citizens for all ports of entry (airports, seaports, landports).
• Duration: Stay of up to 90 days.
• Processing Time: Typically takes 3 to 5 working days.
• Airport Wait Time: None, you can bypass queues since your e-Visa is already approved.
• Cost: Between $25 to $50.
• Ease of Obtaining: Rated 4.5/5, straightforward online application process.
• Documents: Receive the e-Visa in PDF form via email.

Visa on Arrival

• Eligibility: Available to Australian citizens, but only at Vietnam airports.
• Duration: Stay of up to 30 days.
• Processing Time: 2 to 4 working days.
• Airport Wait Time: Expect to wait around 30 minutes at the airport for your visa stamp.
• Cost: Varies depending on the service provider.
• Ease of Obtaining: Rated 3.5/5, requires an additional approval letter before departure.
• Documents: Receive a visa approval letter via email, followed by a visa stamp at the airport.

Key Considerations:

• E-Visa: Enjoy a hassle-free experience with no wait time upon arrival. However, delays can occur if you don’t meet photo requirements or make errors in your application, such as incorrect details.
• Visa on Arrival: While it may involve a brief wait at the airport, the process is easier in terms of document submission, as you don’t need to provide photos. However, ensure you obtain the approval letter before departure to avoid issues.

In 2024, 81% of Australian visitors to Vietnam opted for the e-Visa, reflecting its convenience and efficiency, while only 4% used the Visa on Arrival service.

FAQs about Vietnam visas for Australians

Can Australians extend their Vietnam visa?

Yes, Australian citizens can extend their Vietnam visa, but the process and eligibility depend on the visa type. Extensions are typically available for tourist and business visas, but it’s best to apply before the visa expires.

Can Australians work in Vietnam with a tourist or business visa?

No, Australians cannot work on a tourist visa. For employment, a work visa or business visa is required.

Can Australian citizens bring family members using the same visa?

Generally, each family member must apply for their own visa. Some family visas may allow for group applications, but they are case-specific.

What are the common reasons for visa rejection for Australian applicants?

Visa rejections can happen due to incomplete applications, incorrect details, invalid passports, or failure to meet eligibility criteria.

Do Australian citizens need travel insurance when entering Vietnam?

Travel insurance is not mandatory but is highly recommended. It can cover emergencies, cancellations, and lost baggage, and may be required for some visa applications.

Conclusion

For Australian citizens, obtaining a visa for Vietnam is straightforward, with e-Visa and Visa on Arrival as the main options. The e-Visa is faster and more convenient, ideal for short trips, while the Visa on Arrival offers more flexibility for those with urgent travel needs. Regardless of the option you choose, it's essential to apply in advance, gather the necessary documents, and stay informed about the latest visa policies for a smooth travel experience.