Planning your next tropical escape? Vietnam has become one of the most beloved travel destinations for Australians seeking a blend of vibrant culture, stunning landscapes, and mouth-watering cuisine. But before you hop on that plane to Hanoi, Da Nang, or Ho Chi Minh City, there’s one important detail to sort out — your visa. If you’re holding an Australian passport, this guide walks you through everything you need to know about applying for a Vietnam tourist visa in 2025. Whether you prefer to plan things yourself or want someone else to handle the paperwork, we’ve got you covered.
As of 2025, Australians have access to two main visa types when visiting Vietnam: the E-Visa and the Visa on Arrival (VOA). The E-Visa is by far the most convenient for most travellers. It allows for either single or multiple entries and permits stays of up to 90 days. You can use it to enter via airports, seaports, or land crossings, making it ideal for flexible itineraries.
The Visa on Arrival is another option, suitable for those flying into Vietnam and preferring to collect their visa at the airport. This method requires a pre-approved visa letter, which you’ll need to present upon arrival.
There’s also the option of applying through the Vietnamese Embassy or Consulate in Australia, but that process tends to be more time-consuming and requires more paperwork. With recent improvements to Vietnam’s E-Visa system, especially in 2025, most Aussie tourists are finding online applications to be the quickest and easiest way in.
To apply for a Vietnam tourist visa, you’ll need to have a few essentials ready. Firstly, ensure your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your planned entry date and that it has at least one blank page available for visa stamps.
You’ll also need a passport-style photo with a white background and a clear scan of your passport’s information page. When completing your application online, you’ll provide basic personal details such as your full name, date of birth, nationality, travel dates, and contact information.
For payment, a credit or debit card that works for international transactions will be necessary. While accommodation details and travel insurance are not always mandatory, they’re recommended — especially if you’re using a visa service provider that helps streamline your application.
Applying for an E-Visa is quite straightforward. You can go through Vietnam’s official e-visa portal or opt to use a reputable third-party service like Vietnam Immigration, which offers additional support, faster processing, and simplified guidance — perfect if you’re not keen on dealing with clunky government systems.
Start by filling out the application form with accurate information matching your passport. Upload the required passport scan and photo. Once completed, you’ll choose your processing speed — regular or urgent — and pay the service fee.
Regular processing generally takes three to five business days, though expedited services can get your visa to you in as little as a few hours. Once approved, the visa will be emailed to you as a PDF. Print it out and keep a digital copy on your phone. At the airport, simply present your visa and passport at immigration, and you’re good to go.
If you’re considering the Visa on Arrival route, here’s how it works. First, you’ll need to apply online for a visa approval letter, typically provided by a trusted agency like Vietnam Immigration. This letter confirms you’re eligible for a visa when you land in Vietnam.
When you arrive at one of Vietnam’s international airports, head to the Visa on Arrival counter. Bring your approval letter, passport, a completed visa form, passport-sized photos, and the stamping fee in cash (USD or VND is usually accepted). The immigration officer will issue your visa on the spot.
VOA is a flexible solution and is often faster than expected, especially when using a premium service that offers queue-skipping support. It’s ideal for Aussies making last-minute plans or needing multi-entry options for longer trips.
Processing time depends on the visa type and the urgency of your request. Standard e-visa applications are usually completed within three to five working days, though this may take longer during public holidays or busy travel seasons. Rush services are often available for same-day turnaround.
Pre-approval letters for VOA are typically issued within one to three business days, and urgent services can sometimes provide them within a few hours. To avoid delays or last-minute stress, it’s best to apply at least one week before your departure.
Working with a professional visa service ensures your paperwork is complete and accurate the first time, reducing the risk of issues that could derail your travel plans.
Be sure your photo meets the requirements: white background, no shadows, and a clear front-facing headshot. The passport scan should be high-resolution, with all text and markings easily visible.
Take your time filling in the online form — typos in your name, birthdate, or passport number can lead to rejection. Double-check everything before hitting submit.
Also, print a hard copy of your e-visa and keep a backup on your phone or cloud storage. Many travellers forget this step and end up scrambling at the airport. A bit of extra preparation can save a lot of unnecessary stress on travel day.
Although Australians can apply directly through the government portal, many choose to go with a trusted visa service provider for added convenience, peace of mind, and speed.
Agencies like Vietnam Immigration offer round-the-clock customer support, document pre-checks, express options, and a 100% visa approval guarantee. You won’t need to worry about photo sizing, form errors, or language barriers — it’s all taken care of.
For first-timers or busy travellers, letting the pros handle the paperwork is often the smartest choice. And if you’re in a hurry, they can often turn around your visa in a matter of hours.
👉 Apply now for your Vietnam tourist visa
With its friendly locals, rich cultural history, and unforgettable scenery, Vietnam continues to be a favourite destination for Aussie travellers. Thanks to improved visa processes, getting there has never been easier. Whether you go the DIY route or opt for a visa service, taking care of your visa early ensures a smooth start to your Southeast Asian adventure. Safe travels!
