Australian citizens need a visa to enter Vietnam, and the simplest option is the official e-Visa – available online for $25 USD (single entry) or $50 USD (multiple entry), valid for up to 90 days. Australia is not on Vietnam’s visa-exempt list, but the fully digital e-Visa process means you can complete everything from home without visiting an embassy or consulate.
This guide covers every visa option available to Australian passport holders, current 2026 fees, step-by-step application instructions, and answers to the most common questions Australians ask before travelling to Vietnam.
Do Australian Citizens Need a Visa for Vietnam?
Yes. Australia is not on Vietnam’s visa-exempt list. Australian passport holders must obtain a visa before entering Vietnam, regardless of the purpose or length of stay. There is no visa-free arrangement between Australia and Vietnam as of 2026.
However, Australian citizens are eligible for three convenient visa channels:
- E-Visa – applied for and received entirely online through the official portal
- Visa on Arrival (VOA) – requires a pre-approval letter obtained online before departure
- Embassy/Consulate visa – traditional application through the Vietnamese Embassy in Canberra
Each option has different costs, processing times, and requirements. The sections below explain them in detail.
Exception: If you are flying directly to Phu Quoc Island and staying only on the island, you can enter visa-free for up to 30 days. This exemption does not apply if you transit through mainland Vietnam.
Vietnam E-Visa for Australian Citizens
The e-Visa is the most popular and recommended option for Australian travellers. It is issued by the Vietnam Immigration Department through the official portal at evisa.gov.vn.
Since August 2023, the e-Visa has been available to citizens of all countries and territories, including Australia. The visa is valid for up to 90 days and permits single or multiple entries.
E-Visa Fees for Australians
| Visa Type | Government Fee | Approx. AUD | Validity | Max Stay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Single-entry e-Visa | $25 USD | ~$38 AUD | 90 days | 90 days per entry |
| Multiple-entry e-Visa | $50 USD | ~$76 AUD | 90 days | 90 days per entry |
These are the official government fees paid directly on the e-Visa portal. No sponsor letter, invitation, or agency is required. Payment is made online by credit or debit card during the application process. For a complete breakdown of all visa types and costs, see our Vietnam visa fees guide.
E-Visa Processing Time
Standard processing takes 3 to 5 working days. During peak travel seasons (December to February, and May to July), processing may take up to 7 working days. Apply at least 2 weeks before your travel date to avoid any last-minute issues.
You can check your e-Visa application status online at any time after submitting your application.
Who Is Eligible?
All Australian passport holders are eligible for the e-Visa provided:
- Your passport is valid for at least 6 months from your date of entry into Vietnam
- Your passport has at least 2 blank pages for stamps
- You are not subject to any entry suspension under Vietnamese immigration law
- You are applying from outside Vietnam
The e-Visa is available for tourism, business, transit, and visiting relatives.
Vietnam Visa on Arrival for Australian Citizens
Visa on Arrival (VOA) is an alternative for Australians who are arriving by air at one of Vietnam’s international airports, including Ho Chi Minh City (SGN), Hanoi (HAN), Da Nang (DAD), Nha Trang (CXR), and Phu Quoc (PQC).
How VOA Works
- Apply online through a licensed visa agency to obtain a pre-approval letter
- Receive the letter by email (typically within 2 to 3 working days)
- Present the letter, your passport, and photos at the VOA counter upon arrival
- Pay the stamping fee in cash (USD) and receive your visa stamp
VOA Fees for Australians
| Component | Cost |
|---|---|
| Pre-approval letter (agency fee) | $6 to $25 USD (varies by agency) |
| Stamping fee (single entry) | $25 USD |
| Stamping fee (multiple entry) | $50 USD |
| Total estimated cost | $31 to $75 USD |
Important: VOA is only available at international airports. If you are entering Vietnam by land crossing or by sea, you must have an e-Visa or embassy visa. VOA also requires you to queue at the airport counter, which can take 30 to 60 minutes during busy periods.
For a detailed comparison, see our Vietnam visa on arrival guide.
Vietnam Embassy Visa for Australian Citizens
Australians can apply for a visa at the Embassy of Vietnam in Canberra or the Consulate General in other Australian cities.
Embassy Details
| Location | Details |
|---|---|
| Embassy of Vietnam | 6 Timbarra Crescent, O’Malley, ACT 2606, Canberra |
| Consulate General | Sydney (contact via embassy website) |
When to Choose the Embassy Option
- You need a long-term visa (beyond 90 days)
- You are entering Vietnam for work, study, or diplomatic purposes
- You prefer a physical visa sticker in your passport
- You are not eligible for the e-Visa due to passport or entry-port restrictions
Embassy processing typically takes 5 to 7 working days. You will need to submit your passport, application form, passport-sized photos, and supporting documents in person or by mail.
E-Visa vs Visa on Arrival vs Embassy: Comparison
| Feature | E-Visa | Visa on Arrival | Embassy Visa |
|---|---|---|---|
| Apply from Australia | Yes (fully online) | Yes (online for letter) | Yes (in person or mail) |
| Processing time | 3 to 5 working days | 2 to 3 days (letter) + airport | 5 to 7 working days |
| Entry points | All airports, land, sea | Airports only | All entry points |
| Single entry cost | $25 USD | $31 to $50+ USD | Varies |
| Multiple entry | Yes ($50 USD) | Yes | Yes |
| Queue at arrival | No (use e-gate) | Yes (VOA counter) | No |
| Best for | Most travellers | Last-minute air arrivals | Long-term or work visas |
For the vast majority of Australian tourists, the e-Visa is the best choice – it is the cheapest, fastest, and most convenient option.
Documents Required for Australian Citizens
Before applying for any Vietnam visa, make sure you have the following ready:
- Valid Australian passport with at least 6 months validity from your entry date and 2 blank pages
- Digital passport photo (4×6 cm, white background, taken within the last 6 months)
- Passport data page scan (clear colour scan or photo of the biodata page)
- Travel itinerary including flight details and accommodation address in Vietnam
- Email address for receiving the e-Visa or approval letter
- Credit or debit card for online payment
For the full list of documents and specifications, see our Vietnam visa requirements guide.
How to Apply for a Vietnam E-Visa: Step by Step
Australian citizens can apply for the e-Visa in under 15 minutes. Follow these steps:
Step 1: Visit the official portal at evisa.gov.vn and click “E-visa issuance for foreigners.”
Step 2: Fill in your personal information exactly as it appears on your passport – full name (as shown on biodata page), date of birth, nationality, passport number, and intended entry date.
Step 3: Upload your passport photo (4×6 cm) and a scan of your passport’s biodata page. Both must be clear, colour images.
Step 4: Select your visa type (single or multiple entry) and your intended entry and exit points from the approved list of border gates.
Step 5: Pay the visa fee online ($25 USD for single entry, $50 USD for multiple entry) using a credit or debit card.
Step 6: Save your registration code. You will need it to check your application status and download your e-Visa.
Step 7: Wait 3 to 5 working days, then download and print your e-Visa. Carry a printed copy with your passport when travelling.
For a detailed walkthrough with screenshots, see our complete e-Visa application guide.
Tip from Smartraveller (Australian Government): Make sure all your details are correct when you apply and again when you receive your visa. If there are any errors or name omissions, you may be charged a significant fee at check-in or on arrival, may not be able to board your flight, or could be refused entry and deported.
Digital Pre-Arrival Form
If you are entering Vietnam via international airports such as Ho Chi Minh City, Hanoi, or Phu Quoc, the Vietnamese Government encourages you to complete a Digital Pre-Arrival Form online within 72 hours of arrival. This is a separate requirement from the visa and helps speed up immigration processing.
The pre-arrival registration system is expected to be expanded to more international airports and land border crossings in the future, though specific timelines have not been confirmed.
Vietnamese Embassy and Consulate in Australia
| Mission | Address | Contact |
|---|---|---|
| Embassy of Vietnam | 6 Timbarra Crescent, O’Malley, ACT 2606 | Canberra |
| Consulate General of Vietnam | Sydney, NSW | Contact via embassy website |
For the most current contact details, opening hours, and appointment requirements, visit the official embassy website or call ahead before visiting in person.
FAQs About Vietnam Visa for Australian Citizens
Do Australians need a visa for Vietnam and how much?
Yes, Australians need a visa to enter Vietnam. The most affordable option is the e-Visa, which costs $25 USD (~$38 AUD) for single entry or $50 USD (~$76 AUD) for multiple entry. The e-Visa is valid for up to 90 days and can be applied for entirely online at evisa.gov.vn.
How long does a Vietnam visa take for Australians?
An e-Visa takes 3 to 5 working days to process. During peak seasons it may take up to 7 working days. A Visa on Arrival approval letter typically takes 2 to 3 working days. Embassy visas take 5 to 7 working days. It is recommended to apply at least 2 weeks before your travel date.
Do I need a visa for a 2 week holiday in Vietnam?
Yes. Regardless of the length of your stay, Australian citizens need a visa to enter Vietnam. For a 2-week holiday, the single-entry e-Visa at $25 USD is the simplest and most cost-effective option. It covers stays of up to 90 days.
Can I get a visa for Vietnam on arrival?
Yes, but only if you are arriving by air at an international airport. You must first obtain a pre-approval letter from a licensed visa agency before departure. At the airport, you present the letter, pay a stamping fee ($25 USD for single entry), and receive your visa. The e-Visa is generally recommended as it is cheaper and avoids airport queues.
Can Australians enter Phu Quoc without a visa?
Yes. If you fly directly to Phu Quoc Island from outside Vietnam and stay only on the island, you can enter visa-free for up to 30 days. Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months from the arrival date. If you transit through mainland Vietnam (for example, via Ho Chi Minh City or Hanoi), you need a regular visa.
What is the official Vietnam e-Visa website?
The official Vietnam e-Visa website is evisa.gov.vn. This is the portal operated by the Vietnam Immigration Department, Ministry of Public Security. As of November 2024, the portal moved from evisa.xuatnhapcanh.gov.vn to evisa.gov.vn. Always use the official government website to avoid scam sites that charge inflated fees.
How long can Australians stay in Vietnam with an e-Visa?
The e-Visa allows a maximum stay of 90 days per entry, whether you choose single or multiple entry. You must enter and exit Vietnam through one of the designated international border gates listed on the e-Visa portal.
Do I need travel insurance for Vietnam?
While not a visa requirement, the Australian Government strongly recommends comprehensive travel insurance for all trips to Vietnam. Your insurance should cover medical costs overseas, including evacuation. The Australian Government will not pay for medical costs incurred overseas.
