Traveling to Vietnam as an Australian citizen can be an exciting experience filled with rich culture, stunning landscapes, and delectable cuisine. However, before embarking on your journey, it’s essential to understand the visa requirements for entry into Vietnam. Below is a detailed guide outlining everything you need to know about obtaining a Vietnam visa as an Australian citizen.
Types of Visas Available for Australians
Tourist Visa
The most common visa for Australian leisure travelers is the tourist visa. This single-entry visa allows a stay of up to 30 days in Vietnam. To apply, you need:
Documents Required
- Passport valid for 6 months beyond arrival date
- Completed visa application form
- 1 passport photo
- Visa fee
How to Apply
You can apply for the visa by:
- Applying online through travel agents
- Visiting the Vietnam Diplomatic Mission in Australia
- Applying on arrival at international airports in Vietnam
Online application through travel agents is the most convenient option. The process takes 1-3 days and costs around $45 AUD.
Multiple Entry Tourist Visa
This visa allows multiple entries into Vietnam over a period of 1 month, 3 months, 6 months or 1 year. It’s suitable for frequent travelers. You’ll need:
Documents Required
- Passport valid for 6 months
- Completed application form
- 2 passport photos
- Proof of financial means
- Visa fee
How to Apply
- Apply at the Vietnam Diplomatic Mission
- Apply through a travel agent
Processing time is 5-7 working days. Fees range from $95 AUD (1 month) to $290 AUD (1 year).
Việt Nam Business Visa
To conduct business activities like meetings, trade shows etc. in Vietnam, Australians need a business visa. You’ll need:
Documents Required
- Passport
- Completed application form
- Business invitation letter from Vietnam
- 2 passport photos
- Visa fee
How to Apply
- Apply at the Vietnam Diplomatic Mission
- Apply through a travel agent
Processing time is 5 working days. Fee is around $95 AUD. Validity is 1-3 months.
Work Visa in Vietnam
For employment in Vietnam, Australians need a work permit and work visa. The process involves:
Work Permit
- Obtain job offer from Vietnam employer
- Employer applies for work permit
- Work permit issued within 15 days
Work Visa
- Apply at Vietnam Diplomatic Mission with work permit, documents
- Single entry visa issued within 5 days
- Convert to multiple entry visa in Vietnam
Work visa costs around $95 AUD and is valid for 2 years.
Vietnam Visa on Arrival
Vietnam also offers visa on arrival at international airports for Australian passport holders. You’ll need:
Documents Required
- Passport
- Completed arrival visa form
- 2 passport photos
- Visa fee
Procedure
- Fill arrival visa form on plane
- Submit documents on arrival
- Get visa stamped into passport
Visa on arrival costs around $80 AUD and allows a stay of up to 15 days.
Visa Extensions
If your stay exceeds the visa validity, you can extend your visa by:
- Visiting local Immigration Department
- Paying extension fee of $45 AUD
- Getting new exit date stamped on passport
Tourist visas can be extended once for up to 30 days. Other visa extensions depend on the immigration officer.
FAQs Vietnam Visa for Australian Citizens
This comprehensive guide addresses frequently asked questions regarding Vietnam visas for Australian citizens traveling in 2025. Regulations and procedures can change, so always double-check with the Vietnamese Embassy or Consulate in Australia or a reputable visa agency closer to your travel date. This information serves as a general guide only, not official or legal advice.
1. How long is a Vietnam visa valid for?
- Tourist visa – 30 days
- Multiple entry tourist visa – 1 month to 1 year
- Business visa – 1-3 months
- Work visa – 2 years
- Visa on arrival – 15 days
2. How early can I apply for a Vietnam visa?
You can apply for a visa up to 3 months before your date of travel to Vietnam.
3. Can I get a visa upon arrival without prior approval?
No, you need approval before arrival to get visa on arrival. Only pre-approved visas are issued at airports in Vietnam.
💲 How Much Does a Vietnam Visa Cost for Australian Citizens?
The cost of a Vietnam visa for Australian citizens depends on the visa type, length of stay, and processing time.
🖥️ 1. Vietnam e-Visa (30 Days – Single Entry)
- Standard Processing (3–5 working days): From $52 USD
- Urgent Processing (2–3 days): From $75 USD
- Super Urgent (1 working day or same-day): From $95+ USD
✅ Includes service fee & government fee.
🛬 2. Visa on Arrival (Tourist or Business Visa)
You will need to pay two fees:
a. Service Fee (Paid Online for Approval Letter):
- 1 Month Single Entry: From $20 USD
- 1 Month Multiple Entry: From $25 USD
- 3 Months Single Entry: From $35 USD
- 3 Months Multiple Entry: From $45 USD
b. Stamping Fee (Paid at Airport):
- Single Entry: $25 USD
- Multiple Entry: $50 USD
📌 Note:
- Prices may vary based on urgency and visa type.
- Business visas require additional documents, such as a sponsor letter.
🆘 Need a Fast Visa?
VisaOnlineVietnam offers urgent and emergency visa services — even within 1–2 hours if needed!
5. Do Australian Citizens Need a Visa to Enter Vietnam?
✅ Yes, Australian citizens are required to obtain a visa before entering Vietnam for tourism, business, or other purposes.
🔍 Visa Requirement Details:
- Australia is not on Vietnam’s visa exemption list, meaning you must apply for a visa in advance or use a trusted visa service.
- This applies to all types of travel — including short vacations, business trips, or long-term stays.
🛫 Recommended Visa Options for Australians:
- Vietnam e-Visa (Electronic Visa):
- Valid for 30 days, single entry.
- Fast and easy to apply online via: https://visaonlinevietnam.com
- Processing time: 3–5 working days (Urgent options available: 1–2 days or same-day).
- Visa on Arrival (VOA):
- Requires a pre-approval letter.
- Collect visa at Vietnam airport.
- Available for tourism and business purposes.
6. Are there any Visa Exemptions for Australians?
As of the time of this writing, there is no general visa exemption for Australian citizens visiting Vietnam. Short-term tourists or business travelers cannot simply enter visa-free.
- Phu Quoc Island Exception (Conditional): Some visa exemptions may apply for visits to Phu Quoc Island ONLY. These exemptions typically have very strict conditions: you must arrive directly on Phu Quoc Island by air or sea, stay for a limited period (typically 30 days or less), and remain on Phu Quoc Island before departing, directly to another country, from the island’s international airport or seaport. This requires careful proof of arrival and departure from Phu Quoc. You cannot leave the island to visit the mainland without a valid visa. This is often used by visitors heading to Cambodia or other regional destinations.
- Important: Verify the latest Phu Quoc visa exemption rules before booking your trip if you intend to rely on this. Changes can occur, and you want to be certain you are meeting the qualifications. If you transit through other parts of Vietnam to get to Phu Quoc, you likely do need a visa. If your planning does not align 100% with the exact rules, obtaining a visa upfront is highly recommended.
7. What are the Different Types of Vietnam Visas Available to Australians?
Several types of visas cater to different travel purposes and durations:
- Tourist Visa (DL Visa): The most common type for Australians visiting Vietnam for leisure, sightseeing, or vacationing. Tourist visas are usually issued for single or multiple entries and for durations of up to 30 or 90 days (though 90 day visas are rare).
- Business Visa (DN Visa): For Australians traveling to Vietnam for business-related activities, such as attending conferences, meetings, negotiating contracts, or exploring investment opportunities. Business visas also come in single or multiple entry options and various validity periods.
- Work Visa (LD Visa): Required for Australians who intend to work in Vietnam under an employment contract. These visas usually necessitate sponsorship from a Vietnamese company, meeting certain professional requirements, and obtaining the necessary work permits before applying for the visa. The paperwork can be extensive; begin the process well in advance.
- Student Visa (DH Visa): For Australians planning to study at a Vietnamese educational institution. Similar to work visas, you will likely need an acceptance letter from the institution and the academic programs to which you’re applying.
- Other Visas: Other visa options exist (e.g., for diplomatic purposes, long-term visits, etc.). Consult the Vietnamese Embassy/Consulate for guidance if your travel reason isn’t covered above.
8. How Can Australian Citizens Obtain a Vietnam Visa?
Australian citizens require a visa to enter Vietnam for tourism, business, or other purposes. Fortunately, the process is now easier than ever with various options available depending on your travel needs.
✅ 1. Apply for a Vietnam e-Visa (Recommended Option)
The Vietnam e-Visa is the most convenient method for Australian travelers. It is valid for single or multiple entries, and allows stays of up to 90 days.
🔹 How to Apply:
- Visit the official Vietnam e-Visa portal or a reliable visa agent such as VisaOnlineVietnam.com
- Fill out the online form
- Upload your passport scan and a passport photo
- Pay the processing fee
- Receive your e-Visa by email in 3–5 working days (or sooner with urgent processing)
🔹 Processing Options
- Normal: 3–5 working days
- Urgent: 1–2 working days
- Emergency: 2–4 working hours
✅ 2. Visa on Arrival (VOA)
🔹 Steps:
- Apply online for the approval letter
- Receive it via email
- Present the letter, photos, and stamping fee at the airport on arrival
- Get your visa stamped
🛬 Accepted at major international airports: Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, Da Nang, Nha Trang, etc.
✅ 3. Visa via Vietnamese Embassy/Consulate in Australia
You can also apply directly at the Vietnamese Embassy in Canberra or Consulate in Sydney. This method is suitable for long-term visas or work/study purposes.
📌 Requirements (for all types):
- Passport (valid at least 6 months beyond your stay)
- Recent passport-size photos
- Completed application form
- Visa service or stamping fees
- Travel itinerary (sometimes)
9. How Much Does a Vietnam Visa Cost for Australian Citizens?
Visa fees vary depending on the type of visa, the duration of validity, the number of entries (single or multiple), and the method of application (embassy/consulate vs. e-visa). Check the official website of the Vietnamese Embassy/Consulate in Australia or the official e-visa portal for the most up-to-date fee schedule. Prices quoted by visa agencies may include a service fee on top of the standard visa fee.
10. Can I Extend My Vietnam Visa While in Vietnam?
Visa extensions are possible, but not guaranteed, and can be complex. It’s generally advisable to apply for the longest visa that meets your needs before traveling. If you need to extend your visa while in Vietnam, contact a reputable visa agency or the local immigration office to inquire about the requirements and procedures. Expect to pay a fee and provide documentation. Extensions are often difficult, especially for tourist visas. It’s more likely you will have to do a “visa run” (leave the country and re-enter with a new visa).
11. What Documents Should I Carry When Entering Vietnam?
Upon arrival in Vietnam, you should have the following documents readily available:
- Your original passport (with valid visa, if applicable, or proof of onward travel if using Phu Quoc exemption).
- Printed copy of your e-visa (if applicable).
- Confirmed flight itinerary (round-trip ticket or onward travel).
- Proof of accommodation (hotel booking confirmation or address of where you will be staying).
- Travel insurance (recommended).
- Any other documents relevant to your visa type (e.g., business invitation letter).
12. What Happens if I Overstay My Visa in Vietnam?
Overstaying your visa in Vietnam is a serious violation of immigration laws. Penalties for overstaying can include: fines, detention, deportation at your own expense, and a ban from re-entering Vietnam in the future. It is crucial to adhere to the visa’s validity period and depart before it expires.
13. Can I Get a Vietnam Visa on Arrival (VOA)?
While Visa on Arrival (VOA) technically exists for some nationalities and very specific circumstances (often related to pre-approved applications and those traveling in package tours), it is not recommended or generally available for Australian citizens arriving for standard tourism or business reasons. Relying on VOA can be risky and lead to unexpected problems at the airport. The e-visa or embassy/consulate application is much more reliable.
14. Is Travel Insurance Required for Entering Vietnam?
Travel insurance is not formally required, but it is highly recommended. Having travel insurance will protect you against unexpected medical expenses, trip cancellations, lost luggage, and other unforeseen circumstances. Make sure your insurance policy covers medical treatment in Vietnam.
15. Can I Enter Vietnam Through Any Border Crossing with an E-Visa?
E-visas are accepted at a limited number of international airports, land border crossings, and seaports. Check the official e-visa portal or the Vietnamese Immigration Department website for a list of designated entry points. Make sure the entry point you plan to use is on the list before you travel.
16. I have Dual Citizenship (e.g., Australian and another nationality). Which Passport Should I Use?
Use the passport that matches the visa you are applying for. If you are eligible for a visa exemption based on your other nationality, you may choose to use that passport and comply with the requirements of that specific exemption. Make sure to present the same passport you used for the visa application upon arrival in Vietnam.
17. What if My Passport Expires Soon?
Your passport must be valid for at least six months beyond your intended stay in Vietnam. If your passport is expiring soon, renew it before applying for a visa.
18. Where Can I Find More Information?
- Vietnamese Embassy in Canberra, Australia: The official source of information regarding visa requirements and procedures. See their website and contact them directly for clarification.
- Vietnamese Consulate-General in Sydney, Australia: Can also provide information.
- Official Vietnam Immigration Department Website: The source for e-visa applications and official regulations (see above regarding scams).
- Reputable Visa Agencies: If you prefer assistance with the visa application process, choose a reliable and established visa agency with a good reputation. Be aware that they will charge a service fee.
Conclusion
Australia and Vietnam enjoy friendly bilateral ties. Australians can easily travel to Vietnam by following the appropriate visa application process. Tourist visas are the most common but business, work and other visas are also easily available from the Vietnamese diplomatic mission and travel agents.
Disclaimer: This information is for general guidance only and does not constitute legal advice. Visa regulations are subject to change, so always verify the latest requirements with the official sources mentioned above before making any travel arrangements. Failure to comply with visa regulations can result in denied entry, fines, deportation, and a ban from future entry into Vietnam.