A new Vietnam visa must match the traveller’s nationality, purpose and location at the time of application. Depending on the case, the appropriate route may be an e-visa, a visa supported by a Vietnamese sponsor or another category handled through a diplomatic mission.
Choose the correct route
Travellers outside Vietnam should first check e-visa and visa-exemption eligibility. Employment, investment, study and family cases may require sponsorship or additional permissions. A person already in Vietnam should not assume every status can be converted without departure.
Prepare the basic information
- Passport valid for the required period
- Digital or printed photograph in the specified format
- Planned dates and entry point
- Address and contact details in Vietnam
- Evidence of the travel purpose
- Sponsor documents where the category requires them
Complete the application accurately
Use the official channel, enter passport data exactly and select the intended border gate where required. Save the reference number and payment confirmation. If a sponsor files the case, both parties should keep the same version of the itinerary and personal details.
Check the approval before travel
Confirm the name, passport number, validity, entries, visa category and permitted entry point. A correction can take time, and an airline may refuse boarding when the approval does not match the passport.
After entering Vietnam
Observe the permitted stay, complete temporary-residence registration and comply with work or study rules separately. Begin any extension, new visa or residence-card process before the current stay expires.
Common mistakes
- Using an unofficial application website
- Selecting the wrong purpose or border gate
- Uploading an unreadable passport page
- Booking travel outside the visa validity
- Assuming payment guarantees approval
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I apply from inside Vietnam?
It depends on the current status and requested category. Some cases require departure or sponsor involvement.
Can a visa be transferred to a new passport?
A new passport may require a new visa or formal update. Check before travel.
Use the current instructions from Vietnam’s official immigration and e-visa portals.

