Vietnam Updates E-visa Document and Printing Standards

Vietnam is tightening its entry requirements with stricter document standards and mandatory physical paperwork for travelers. While the popular 90-day multiple-entry e-visa remains available for approximately 80 nationalities, border officials now require precise digital formatting and physical copies for entry.

The updated rules mandate that passport scans be in a clear .jpg format showing the full data page and ICAO lines. Portrait photos must be 4×6 cm with a white background and no glasses. Most importantly, digital copies of visas on smartphones are no longer sufficient. You must present a printed copy with a clearly visible QR code at one of the 83 designated border gates to clear immigration.

Who it affects

These changes impact digital nomads and remote workers planning stays longer than 45 days. While some nationalities, such as Czech citizens, can now enter visa-free for up to 45 days for tourism, the e-visa remains the primary route for those seeking the full 90-day stay or multiple-entry flexibility for regional travel.

What to do

If you are planning a trip, apply through the official portal at least three working days before your flight. The fee is $25 for single-entry or $50 for multiple-entry, payable via an electronic gateway.

Once your approval arrives via email, print at least two copies; keep one with your passport and a spare in your luggage. Ensure the printout is high quality so the QR code, visa code, and entry port are legible. If you need a faster turnaround, expedited processing is available for an additional fee, with some urgent cases cleared in as little as two hours.

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