How To Apply For Vietnam Visa? Step-By-Step Guide For Indians

Vietnam has become one of the top outbound international destinations for Indian tourists. However, it is important to note that Indian passport holders cannot enter Vietnam visa-free. A pre-approved visa is strictly required prior to departure. The Vietnam Electronic Visa (E-Visa) covers 90 days of stay with both single-entry and multiple-entry privileges, processed entirely online without visiting an embassy. Here is how Indians can apply for a Vietnam visa, complete with costs and a step-by-step guide.

Important Vietnam Visa Details For Indians

What Documents Do You Need To Apply For Vietnam Visa?

• Indian Passport Validity: Must have at least six months of validity remaining from your intended date of entry into Vietnam and two blank pages.
• Passport Bio Data Page Scan: Clear, uncropped JPEG scan of the biographical page (under 2 MB) showing all details and ICAO machine-readable lines clearly. 
  • Digital Passport Photo Requirements: Dimensions should be 4×6 cm equivalent (JPEG/PNG format).
  • Background: Plain white, no spectacles/glasses, full face visible, no headwear (except religious headgear).
• International Debit/Credit Card: Enabled for foreign currency online transactions (USD) with 3D Secure or OTP.

How To Apply For Vietnam Visa: Step-By-Step Guide

1. Access the Official Government Portal: Avoid Third-Party Scam Sites And High Agency Markups

Navigate directly to the official portal. Verify the domain ends in .gov.vn to ensure you are on the official Vietnam Immigration Department portal. Click on “For Foreigners or Apply for E-Visa”.

2. Upload Documents And Personal Info: Ensure Names Match Your Passport Biographical Page Exactly

Upload your passport bio page scan and recent passport-style photo. Fill in personal details: Full Name (First, Middle, Last), Date of Birth, Nationality (India), Passport Number, and Passport Expiry Date.

3. Select Visa Type And Intended Dates: Validity Starts On Your Chosen Entry Date, Not When You Land

Select Single Entry (USD 25) or Multiple Entry (USD 50). Choose your intended entry date and exit date. Note: You can land after your start date, but never before it.

4. Specify Entry And Exit Border Gates: You Must Accurately Reflect Your Port Of Arrival

Select your exact designated checkpoint from the drop-down list (e.g., Noi Bai Intl Airport in Hanoi, Tan Son Nhat Intl Airport in Ho Chi Minh City, or Da Nang Intl Airport). Provide a temporary accommodation address in Vietnam (e.g., your first hotel’s booking name and address).

5. Pay Fee And Save Your Registration Code: Save The Code Immediately For Tracking Status Later

Review all details carefully. Pay the USD 25 or USD 50 fee via the electronic payment gateway using your card. After payment, write down or screenshot your Registration Code, as you will need that, email, and date of birth to check approval status.

6. Track, Download And Print Your E-Visa PDF: Carry Physical Printouts For Immigration Check-In

After three to five working days, check your status under “E-visa Search” on the portal. Once approved, download the E-Visa PDF. Print at least two physical color/black-and-white copies to present at airline check-in and Vietnamese immigration counters.

E-Visa Vs. Visa-On-Arrival: Which Is Better?

Common Mistakes Indians Should Avoid

• Falling for Copycat/Agency Websites: Dozens of unofficial websites charge USD 80 to USD 120 for a basic USD 25 visa. Always verify the URL. 
• Name Format Mis-Matches: Entering a middle name in the First Name box or omitting Given Names causes immediate rejection or boarding denial at Indian airports.
• Arriving at the Wrong Port: If your E-Visa specifies Hanoi (Noi Bai) as the entry checkpoint, landing in Ho Chi Minh City instead can lead to entry refusal unless modified in advance.
• Blurry Passport Scans: Passport images with flash glare on the Machine-Readable Zone (MRZ) at the bottom will stall processing beyond days.

What Is The Entry Procedure In Vietnam Airports?

What To Show At Border Control

• Original Indian Passport (valid for more than six months).
• Printed Copy of the E-Visa PDF document.
• Return or onward flight ticket confirmation.

No Stamping Fee on Landing: Unlike old VOA systems, e-Visa holders do not pay any cash fees upon arrival at the airport.

Also Read: Can You Visit Vietnam On A Budget? Guide And Budget Tips For Indians

Summing Up

Vietnam continues to be one of the most popular international destinations for Indian travelers, but obtaining the correct visa before departure is essential. The official Vietnam E-Visa offers a simple, fully online application process with options for both single and multiple entries, allowing stays of up to 90 days. To avoid delays or rejection, ensure your passport details are entered exactly as they appear, upload clear documents, choose the correct entry port, and apply only through the official government portal. Once approved, carry a printed copy of your E-Visa along with your passport and travel documents for a smooth arrival. With careful planning and the right documentation, Indian tourists can enjoy a hassle-free entry into Vietnam. 

FAQs

Can I Extend My Vietnam E-Visa While Inside The Country?

As of 2026, in-country extensions are highly restricted. It is advisable to apply for a 90-day multiple-entry e-Visa from the start if planning a longer stay or side trips to neighboring countries like Cambodia or Laos.

How Early Should Indians Apply Before Their Trip?

Apply seven to ten days prior to your flight to allow a cushion for potential delays or data correction requests.

Do Kids/Minors Need A Separate E-Visa Application?

Children included in a parent’s passport do not need a separate visa; however, if the child holds their own separate Indian passport, a dedicated e-Visa application and fee must be submitted.