FAQ

Common questions about Vietnam e-visas — applying from Australia, documents, processing, fees, and what happens after you submit.

Common questions

Answers about applying for a Vietnam e-visa from Australia. For step-by-step detail, see our dedicated guides on processing times, eligibility, and fees.

Applying with Vien Dong

Why apply through Vien Dong instead of the government site alone?

We review every application before it is lodged, checking photos, passport scans, and personal details against common rejection reasons. You also get Australian phone support in English and Vietnamese, and urgent processing options when travel cannot wait.

How do I start an application?

Use our online application form. Choose your visa type, processing speed, and number of travellers, then upload documents and pay securely. If you are unsure which visa type fits your trip, call (03) 9687 1057 before you apply.

Is applying online secure?

Yes. Card payments are processed through Stripe. Documents you upload are encrypted, and we follow a strict deletion process so passport information is not held for more than 30 days. We take our responsibilities with your data seriously.

Can you help if my departure is within 48 hours?

Call us immediately on (03) 9687 1057. Same-day and 24-hour options are available on the form for eligible visa types when documents are complete and submitted on a working day.

Processing times

How long does standard Vietnam e-visa processing take with Vien Dong?

For tourism single-entry and multiple-entry applications, standard processing is 7 working days (Monday to Friday), excluding Vietnam public holidays. This matches the Standard processing option on our online application form.

What is the fastest processing option on your application form?

For 3 month single-entry visas, the fastest option is 24 hours (except weekends and public holidays). For 3 month multiple-entry visas, same-day processing (4–8 working hours) is available when you select it on the form and submit complete documents in time.

Do weekends and Vietnam public holidays count as processing days?

No. Processing times are counted in Vietnam working days (Monday to Friday). Weekends and Vietnam public holidays are not counted. Our holiday calendar on this page lists closures that can delay applications.

When should I apply before a Vietnam public holiday?

Apply at least 3–4 weeks before travel if your dates fall near Tet (Lunar New Year) or National Day (2 September). For standard 7-day processing, we recommend applying at least two weeks before departure at any time of year.

Are processing times guaranteed?

No. The options on our form are service-level targets based on what we deliver when your documents are complete and correct. Final visa approval is always decided by Vietnam Immigration, and delays can occur during peak periods or if corrections are required.

Why are processing options different for single entry and multiple entry?

Visa type affects how applications are handled through the official system. Our online form shows the processing options available for each visa type you select: single entry, multiple entry, or 5-year exemption. You only see choices that apply to your application.

Eligibility & documents

Do I need a visa for a stopover in Vietnam?

If you stay airside and do not pass through immigration, you may not need a visa for a pure transit. If you collect luggage, leave the airport, or pass immigration for any reason, even for a few hours, you normally need a visa or an exemption that matches your passport. Rules differ by airline and airport, so check with your carrier before you book.

Do I need a visa to change airports in Vietnam?

Yes, if changing airports means entering Vietnam. For example, flying into Ho Chi Minh City and later departing from Hanoi with bags to collect in between. Moving between cities on one entry after you have already cleared immigration is fine on a single-entry visa. You only need multiple entry if you leave Vietnam and come back again later on the same trip.

Does it matter where I live, or only my passport?

Immigration looks at the passport you travel on, not your home address. A UK passport holder living in Footscray follows UK rules, even when flying from Melbourne. With two passports, pick the one that works best and use it consistently for booking, check-in, and the application.

Do Australians need a visa for Vietnam?

Yes. For a standard holiday, Australian passport holders need a visa arranged before travel. Most people use the e-visa route. You can apply through us; we review your paperwork before it goes to the official system.

What is the difference between visa-free entry and an e-visa?

Some passports allow short visits without a visa, often up to 45 days under current Vietnamese rules. Others must hold an approved e-visa or embassy visa before arrival. An e-visa can still be useful when you want written confirmation for your airline or at the border, even if you might qualify for exemption.

Can I use an e-visa at a land border or seaport?

Only at entry points listed on the official e-visa site and on your approval letter. If your approval shows an airport, you cannot use that same e-visa at a land crossing unless that port is also authorised. Choose the correct entry point when you apply.

My nationality is not on the e-visa list. What now?

Ring us on (03) 9687 1057 or contact the nearest Vietnamese embassy or consulate. Some nationalities must use embassy channels rather than the online portal.

One trip, several cities: single or multiple entry?

Hanoi, Da Nang, Ho Chi Minh City and elsewhere on one continuous visit count as a single stay. Single entry is usually enough. Multiple entry is for leaving Vietnam and returning again within the visa validity period.

Can I lodge an e-visa while already in Vietnam?

No. Applications must be submitted while you are outside the country. Lodging from within Vietnam will be refused.

Fees & payment

Does the price on the form cover the full application?

Yes. The amount you pay through our application form is one all-in price that covers embassy application costs for your visa, including the processing option you select. There is nothing extra to pay at checkout.

Why does urgent processing cost more?

Faster turnaround involves additional embassy handling charges. Those rush costs are already built into the urgent or same-day option you choose on the form.

Do fees apply per traveller?

Yes. If you apply for more than one person on the same form, the total reflects each applicant and the processing speed selected for the group.

When do I pay?

Payment is taken securely online when you submit the application. The form shows your full total in Australian dollars before you confirm.

Can I get advice before I apply?

Yes. Call (03) 9687 1057 with your visa type, travel date, and number of travellers. We will help you choose the right processing option.

Your data & privacy

How do you store and delete my passport information?

We take our responsibilities with your data seriously. Documents you upload are encrypted in transit and at rest. We follow a strict deletion process at regular intervals, and passport information is not held for more than 30 days before it is permanently removed. Your files are only used to process your visa application.

After you apply

What happens after I submit and pay?

We review your documents and lodge the application on the official system. You receive email confirmation. If we need anything corrected, we contact you by email or phone before submission.

How will I receive my visa?

Approved e-visas are issued electronically. Print your approval letter and carry it with your passport. Airlines and border staff may ask to see it before boarding or on arrival.

Can I change my travel dates after applying?

It depends how far along your application is. Contact us as soon as your plans change. Call (03) 9687 1057 or use our contact form.

Can I extend my visa while in Vietnam?

Extensions may be possible in Vietnam depending on your visa type and circumstances. We can advise before you travel or point you to options if you are already overseas.

Still have a question?

Our Melbourne team can walk you through visa type, documents, and processing speed.

Apply online Call (03) 9687 1057