Travelling to Vietnam during Lunar New Year is an appealing plan for many Australians. It is a time filled with cultural celebrations, family reunions, and vibrant local experiences. However, behind …
Lunar New Year is one of the most vibrant and meaningful times to visit Vietnam. Streets are decorated, traditional celebrations take place across the country, and the festive atmosphere offers a truly unique travel experience. However, while many travelers focus on flights and accommodation, one critical question often arises at the last minute: can a Vietnam e-visa still be obtained during Lunar New Year?
This concern is understandable. Lunar New Year is the longest public holiday in Vietnam, and government operations do not run as usual. Although the e-visa system remains online, the actual approval process follows a very different rhythm during this period. Knowing how this works can help you avoid unnecessary delays and protect your travel plans.
Yes, it is still possible to obtain a Vietnam e-visa during Lunar New Year. The official online system continues to accept applications, even throughout the holiday period. From a technical standpoint, nothing prevents you from submitting your application during this time.
However, submitting an application does not mean it will be processed immediately. Vietnam e-visas are reviewed by immigration authorities, and these offices follow the national holiday schedule. During Lunar New Year, working days are reduced, and applications often remain in the queue until offices resume normal operations.
For travelers with fixed departure dates, this distinction is crucial. While the system is open, approval timelines can be significantly longer than usual, especially for applications submitted close to the holiday.

Lunar New Year affects almost all government services in Vietnam, including immigration. Offices typically close for several consecutive days, and even after reopening, staffing levels may remain limited due to backlogs.
During this time, e-visa applications are not prioritized. Requests for corrections or clarification may not receive prompt responses, which can extend processing times further. This creates uncertainty for travelers who are waiting for approval.
Even small application issues can become serious obstacles during the holiday. A minor typo or an incorrect photo format may delay the entire process, simply because there is no immediate opportunity to correct the issue.
One major reason for delays is the sharp increase in travel demand around Lunar New Year. Vietnam attracts both international visitors and overseas Vietnamese returning home, leading to a surge in visa applications.
At the same time, immigration departments operate with reduced staff. This imbalance between demand and processing capacity naturally slows down approvals, even for applications that are otherwise correct.
Another common factor is late planning. Many travelers underestimate the impact of the holiday and apply for their e-visa just days before departure. During Lunar New Year, this approach carries a much higher risk than at other times of the year.
If you need a Vietnam e-visa urgently during Lunar New Year, relying solely on the standard application process can be risky. In this situation, professional visa assistance becomes a practical and reliable alternative.
A trusted service such as VietnamImmigration.com can help reduce uncertainty by carefully reviewing your application before submission. This step alone can prevent common mistakes that often cause delays during holiday periods.
More importantly, urgent cases may qualify for prioritized processing of an e-visa or approval letter, with turnaround times ranging from 2 to 8 hours, depending on the situation. This option is especially valuable for travelers with imminent flights who cannot afford delays.

During Lunar New Year, certainty matters more than speed alone. Professional visa services provide an extra layer of security when government processing is unpredictable.
With over 15 years of experience handling Vietnam visa and immigration matters, VietnamImmigration.com understands how holiday schedules affect approvals. Applications are verified by experienced specialists, monitored closely throughout the process, and supported by responsive assistance when issues arise.
For travelers, this means less stress, fewer surprises, and a much higher level of confidence that their entry documents will be ready on time.
So, can you obtain a Vietnam e-visa during Lunar New Year? Yes, it is possible. However, holiday schedules, increased application volumes, and limited processing capacity all increase the risk of delays.
If you are traveling during this period and your timeline is tight, preparing early or choosing reliable professional support can make a significant difference. With the right approach and the right assistance, you can secure your Vietnam e-visa smoothly and enjoy your trip during one of the most festive seasons of the year.
Travelling to Vietnam during Lunar New Year is an appealing plan for many Australians. It is a time filled with cultural celebrations, family reunions, and vibrant local experiences. However, behind …
Lunar New Year is the most exciting time to visit Vietnam — vibrant festivals, colorful streets, and a once-a-year cultural atmosphere. But for many travelers, this holiday becomes the most …