Planning a trip to Vietnam from Australia? Before you book flights, there is one question to answer first: do Australians need a visa for Vietnam?

Yes. Australian passport holders need a visa before entering Vietnam, and the easiest option for most travellers is the Vietnam eVisa, which you can apply for online in a few minutes. In this guide we explain the requirements, the cost, how long it takes, and how to apply step by step.

Do Australians Need a Visa for Vietnam?

Australia is not on Vietnam's visa-exemption list. This means Australian citizens need a valid visa to enter Vietnam, whether the trip is for a holiday, visiting family, or a short business visit.

There are two exceptions to be aware of:

• Phu Quoc Island: Foreign visitors flying directly to Phu Quoc International Airport (PQC) from outside Vietnam can generally stay on the island visa-free for a limited period. If you plan to leave the island for the mainland, you will need a proper visa. Check the current conditions before you travel.
• Visa exemption certificate: Some people, such as Vietnamese people living overseas and their foreign spouses and children, may qualify for a special exemption certificate.

For most Australian tourists, the eVisa is the right choice.

What Is the Vietnam eVisa for Australians?

The Vietnam eVisa is an electronic visa issued by the Vietnam Immigration Department. You apply online, receive the approved visa by email, and show it when you arrive.

Key facts for Australian travellers:

Feature	Details
Validity	Up to 90 days
Entry type	Single entry or multiple entry
Official government fee	US$25 (single entry) or US$50 (multiple entry)
Official processing time	Usually about 3 working days
How you receive it	PDF by email
Where to apply	Official portal: evisa.gov.vn

Fees and rules can change, so always confirm the latest details on the official portal before you apply.

Vietnam Visa Cost for Australians

The government fee is paid in US dollars on the official portal:

• Single-entry eVisa: US$25 (roughly A$35–40, depending on the exchange rate)
• Multiple-entry eVisa: US$50 (roughly A$70–80, depending on the exchange rate)

If you use a visa assistance service instead of applying yourself, you will pay a service fee on top of the government fee. Before you pay anyone, ask for the total price in writing, what is included, and what happens if your application is rejected.

What You Need to Apply

Prepare these items before you start:

• A valid Australian passport. It should be valid for at least 6 months from your arrival date and have blank pages.
• A passport photo. A recent, clear, front-facing photo with a plain background.
• A scan of your passport information page. The image must be sharp, with all four corners visible.
• A valid email address. Your visa will be sent here.
• Your travel details. Your intended arrival date and the airport or border gate where you will enter Vietnam.
• A credit or debit card. You will use it to pay the fee online.

How to Apply for a Vietnam eVisa (Step by Step)

Step 1: Check your passport

Make sure your passport is valid for at least 6 months after your arrival date. If it is close to expiring, renew it first.

Step 2: Prepare your photo and passport scan

Take a clear photo and scan your passport page. Poor-quality images are a common reason for delays.

Step 3: Fill in the online application

Go to the official eVisa portal and enter your personal details exactly as they appear in your passport. Choose single entry or multiple entry, and select your arrival date and entry airport.

Step 4: Pay the government fee

Pay the fee online by card. Keep your payment confirmation and your application code. You will need the code to check your status later.

Step 5: Wait for approval

Processing usually takes about 3 working days, but it can take longer around weekends and Vietnamese public holidays. Check your status on the portal using your application code.

Step 6: Download and check your visa

When your eVisa is approved, download and print it. Check that your name, date of birth, passport number and validity dates are correct. Tell the issuing office quickly if there is a mistake.

Step 7: Carry it when you travel

Bring a printed copy of your eVisa and your passport. Immigration officers at the airport will check them.

Which Airports Can You Enter With an eVisa?

eVisa holders must enter through an approved border gate. Popular international airports include:

Airport	Code	City or area
Noi Bai International Airport	HAN	Hanoi
Tan Son Nhat International Airport	SGN	Ho Chi Minh City
Da Nang International Airport	DAD	Da Nang and Hoi An
Cam Ranh International Airport	CXR	Nha Trang
Phu Quoc International Airport	PQC	Phu Quoc Island

This is not a full list. The entry point you choose on your application should match the one you actually use.

Common Mistakes Australians Make

• Assuming Australia is visa-free. It is not. Apply before you fly.
• Typing details that do not match the passport. Even a small spelling difference can cause problems.
• Uploading a blurry photo or scan. Use clear, well-lit images.
• Applying too late. Apply at least 1–2 weeks before departure, and earlier around Tet and public holidays.
• Choosing the wrong entry airport. Check that it is on the approved list.
• Not checking the approved visa. Always verify the dates and details before travelling.

What If You Need the Visa Urgently?

If your flight is only a few days away, you may be able to use an urgent processing service. Read our guide to the emergency Vietnam visa to understand your options, typical costs, and what to ask a provider before you pay. No service can guarantee approval, because the final decision belongs to Vietnamese immigration authorities.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do Australian citizens need a visa for Vietnam?

Yes. Australian passport holders need a visa to enter Vietnam, with limited exceptions such as certain direct arrivals to Phu Quoc Island.

How much is the Vietnam eVisa for Australians?

The official government fee is US$25 for a single-entry eVisa and US$50 for a multiple-entry eVisa. Agencies may add a service fee.

How long does the Vietnam eVisa take?

Official processing usually takes about 4-7 working days. It may take longer during weekends and public holidays, so apply early.

How long can Australians stay in Vietnam with an eVisa?

The eVisa is valid for up to 90 days. Your exact permitted stay follows the dates shown on your approved visa.

Can I get a visa on arrival in Vietnam?

You should not plan to simply turn up and buy a visa at the airport. Apply for your eVisa before you travel and carry the approved copy with you.

Is a single-entry or multiple-entry eVisa better?

Choose single entry if you will enter Vietnam once. Choose multiple entry if you plan to leave and re-enter, for example on a side trip to Cambodia, Laos or Thailand.

What passport validity do I need?

Your passport should be valid for at least 6 months from your arrival date and have blank pages.

Need Help With Your Vietnam Visa?

Applying yourself is straightforward, but mistakes can cause delays. If you would like a person to check your details before submission, you can apply for an eVisa with our team or contact us on WhatsApp.

Important: Visa rules, fees and processing times can change. Always confirm the latest information with the Vietnam Immigration Department's official portal before you apply. Vietnam Visa Guides is a private assistance service and is not affiliated with the Government of Vietnam.