Vietnam E-Visa Application from Dubai: Step-by-Step Guide 2026

The Vietnam e-visa (electronic visa) is an online travel authorisation issued by the Vietnam Immigration Department. It replaced the need for physical visa stamps for short-term visitors. Since August 2023, the e-visa has been available to all nationalities worldwide, with an extended maximum stay of 90 days (previously 30 days).

Follow these exact steps to apply for your Vietnam e-visa. The entire process is completed on the official Vietnamese government portal. Do not use third-party websites that charge inflated fees.

1. 1Navigate to the official portal: Go to evisa.gov.vn and click "E-visa Issuance" then "Outside Vietnam foreigners" then "Apply new".
2. 2Read the terms and conditions: Check the agreement box and click "Next" to proceed to the application form.
3. 3Upload your passport photo: The photo must be 4x6 cm, white background, taken within the last 6 months, straight-facing, without glasses. File format must be JPEG and under 1 MB.
4. 4Upload your passport data page: Scan or photograph the data page of your passport (the page with your photo). Ensure all text is clearly readable. JPEG format, under 1 MB.
5. 5Enter personal information: Full name (exactly as on passport), date of birth, nationality, passport number, passport expiry date, gender, and religion (optional).
6. 6Enter travel details: Intended date of entry, intended date of exit, entry checkpoint (airport, land border, or seaport), exit checkpoint, and purpose of visit.
7. 7Enter contact information: Email address (where your e-visa will be sent), phone number, and temporary address in Vietnam (hotel name and address).
8. 8Review all information: Carefully check every field. Any mismatch between your application and passport will result in denial of entry at the border.
9. 9Complete payment: Pay USD 25 (single entry) or USD 50 (multiple entry) via Visa, MasterCard, JCB, or UnionPay. You will receive a payment confirmation.
10. 10Save your registration code: You will receive a registration code after payment. Use this code to check your application status on the portal.
11. 11Check status and download: After 3 working days, check your status. If approved, download the e-visa PDF and print at least 2 copies.

On arrival in Vietnam, proceed to the immigration counter with your printed e-visa and passport. The officer will verify your details and stamp your passport. There is no additional fee at the border for e-visa holders.

Incorrect photos and document scans are the most common reason for Vietnam e-visa rejections. Follow these exact specifications to avoid having your application returned.

While the Vietnam e-visa has a high approval rate, applications do get rejected. Understanding the most common reasons for rejection helps you avoid them.

Both the e-visa and visa on arrival are valid options for Dubai residents, but they serve different situations. Here is a detailed comparison to help you choose the right one.

OraVisa recommends the e-visa for most Dubai residents. It is cheaper overall, avoids the often-crowded visa on arrival counter at Vietnamese airports, and works at all entry points including land borders — useful if you plan to enter Vietnam overland from Cambodia or Laos.

Once your Vietnam e-visa is approved, there are a few important steps to take before your trip to ensure a smooth entry into Vietnam.

• Download your e-visa PDF immediately and save it in multiple locations (phone, email, cloud storage).
• Print at least two copies of the e-visa — carry one in your hand luggage and one in your checked baggage.
• Verify that the name, passport number, and dates on the e-visa match your passport exactly. Report any errors to the Immigration Department immediately.
• Your e-visa is valid only for the dates specified. Arriving before or after these dates will result in denied entry.
• Ensure you have your hotel booking confirmation ready — immigration officers may ask for it on arrival.
• Carry a pen for the arrival/departure card that may be distributed on your flight or at the airport.