Planning a trip to Vietnam from Australia? One of the first things you will need to sort out is your visa. The good news is that Vietnam has made the process significantly easier in recent years, with multiple options available for Australian passport holders. This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know to enter Vietnam hassle-free.
E-Visa: The Easiest Option
Since August 2023, Vietnam offers e-visas with a validity of up to 90 days for Australian citizens. The e-visa allows multiple entries, making it perfect for travellers who want to explore neighbouring countries and return to Vietnam. The application process is entirely online and typically takes 3 business days to process.
The e-visa costs approximately USD $25 and can be applied for through the official Vietnam Immigration portal. Make sure you have a digital passport photo and a scan of your passport bio page ready before starting the application.
What You Will Need
Before applying for your Vietnam visa, ensure you have the following documents and information ready:
- Valid Australian passport with at least 6 months remaining validity
- Digital passport-style photo (4x6cm, white background, taken within last 6 months)
- Scanned copy of your passport bio page (JPEG or PNG)
- Travel itinerary including entry/exit dates and port of entry
- Credit or debit card for the online payment (Visa, MasterCard, or JCB accepted)
- Accommodation details in Vietnam (hotel name and address)
Important Update for 2026
As of January 2026, Vietnam has extended the e-visa validity to 90 days with multiple entries for Australian citizens. This is a significant improvement from the previous 30-day single entry limit. Always check the official immigration website for the latest requirements before travelling.
Visa on Arrival vs E-Visa
While visa on arrival is still available at major international airports (Tan Son Nhat, Noi Bai, Da Nang), we strongly recommend the e-visa option. Visa on arrival requires a pre-approved letter from a local travel agency, can involve long queues at immigration, and is generally more expensive. The e-visa is faster, cheaper, and allows you to skip the visa counter entirely.
Visa Exemptions
Unfortunately, Australia is not on the visa exemption list for Vietnam. However, if you hold dual citizenship with a visa-exempt country (such as the UK, France, Germany, or South Korea), you may be able to enter visa-free for up to 45 days using that passport. Transit passengers staying less than 24 hours at an international airport may also be exempt from visa requirements.
Tips for a Smooth Entry
Print a copy of your e-visa approval letter, even though digital copies are accepted. Ensure your passport matches the details on your e-visa exactly. Arrive at the immigration counter with your completed arrival/departure card (distributed on the plane or available at the airport). If travelling during peak seasons like Tet (Vietnamese New Year) or summer holidays, apply for your e-visa at least 2 weeks in advance to avoid processing delays.
For the latest visa information and any changes to entry requirements, we recommend checking the Australian Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT) Smartraveller website before your departure. You can also contact the Vietnamese Embassy in Canberra or the Consulate-General in Sydney for specific queries.