How long it takes
| Situation | What to expect |
|---|---|
| Standard processing | 3 working days after you submit and pay |
| Applying on a Thursday or Friday | The weekend doesn't count — expect your result the following week |
| Around Vietnamese public holidays (especially Lunar New Year, Tết) | Longer — offices close and applications pile up |
| Errors or missing information | Longer, or a rejection you'll need to reapply after |
The simple way to avoid stress
Apply one to two weeks before you fly, double-check your details match your passport, and check your status after 3 working days.
What slows applications down
- Details that don't match your passport — name spelling, passport number, date of birth.
- Poor photos — a blurry passport page or a portrait that doesn't meet the requirements.
- Holidays and peak season — more applications, fewer working days.
Can you pay to expedite it?
Not officially. The Immigration Department doesn't sell paid priority handling or guaranteed approval — the official fee is US$25 or US$50 whichever way you apply.
"Expedited" or "urgent" e-visas are sold by private agencies. They charge a service fee on top of the government fee and handle the application for you. Some are legitimate businesses; others are the fake sites the immigration authorities warn about.
If you're flying in a few days and haven't applied
- Apply on the official portal straight away — that's the cheapest route, and many applications come back within the standard time.
- Check your status daily once 3 working days have passed.
- If you decide to use an agency, choose an established company with a long track record and independent reviews, read exactly what they promise, and remember no one can guarantee the government's decision.
Official site for the Vietnam e-visa
evisa.gov.vn — government cost: US$25 single entry / US$50 multiple entry.
This page is an independent guide; we don't submit forms or take payments. Check the address bar matches evisa.gov.vn exactly before entering passport details.
Frequently asked questions
How long does the Vietnam e-visa take?
The standard processing time is 3 working days, excluding weekends and public holidays. It can take longer at busy times, around holidays, or if more information is needed.
Can I pay the government to expedite my Vietnam e-visa?
No. Vietnam's Immigration Department does not sell paid priority handling or guaranteed approval on the official portal. "Expedited" services are offered by private agencies, which charge extra on top of the government fee.
Are expedited Vietnam e-visa services a scam?
Not all of them — some are legitimate private agencies. But they cannot guarantee approval, and fake sites use the same language. If you use one, choose an established company, check reviews, and understand you are paying a service fee, not an official fast-track charge.
When should I apply for my Vietnam e-visa?
At least one to two weeks before you fly gives you a comfortable buffer over the 3-working-day standard, plus time to fix any problems.
Sources
Last checked against these sources on 3 November 2026. Entry rules change, sometimes with little notice — confirm on the official site before you travel. Spotted something out of date? Tell us.