How Early Can I Apply for my Vietnam E-visa?

The short answer for this question is: it is best to apply 4-8 weeks in advance of your trip date, when your trip is definite.

Understanding How Early You Can Apply for a Vietnam E-Visa

Below are the key things to know:

_ Vietnam’s e-visa system does not impose a strict minimum waiting period before travel. In practice, applicants are allowed to submit an e-visa application up to 12 months before their intended entry date (*1).

_ The key requirement is that you must declare a specific entry date and exit date at the time of application. These dates determine the validity period of your e-visa once it is issued.

_ Once approved, the e-visa validity is fixed according to the dates you provided. Applying very early is permitted, but it increases the risk that your travel plans may later change. If the date on your visa no longer coincides with your actual trip date, a new e-visa is required.

Recommended Timing For Vietnam Evisa Application: When Is Best To Apply

Although early application is allowed, immigration practice and travelers’ experience suggest an optimal timeframe:

_ Ideal application window: around 4–8 weeks before travel. This timeframe balances certainty of travel plans with sufficient processing buffers.

_ Minimum safe window: 2–3 weeks before arrival, allowing time for standard processing and potential re-application if errors occur.

_ Applying many months in advance is not recommended unless your itinerary and passport details are fully confirmed, as any change will require a new application.

Processing Time and What It Means for Early Applications

Vietnam e-visas are generally processed within 3–4 business days after submission.

_ Business days exclude weekends and Vietnamese public holidays. Note that public holidays change from years to years to include long weekends (Check 2026 holiday calendar).

_ During peak travel seasons or holiday periods, processing times may extend slightly.

_ Applying too close to your departure date is not recommended as you may risk re-submission if your application contains errors.

What Happens If Your Travel Dates Change After Applying?

This is the biggest risk if you apply too early:

_ Vietnam e-visa details cannot be amended after issuance, including entry date, exit date, or passport information.

_ You may enter Vietnam on or after the entry date printed on your e-visa, but NOT before.

_ If your actual travel dates fall outside the approved validity period, your e-visa becomes invalid and a new application is required (subsequently, a new application fee must be paid).

This is why timing your initial application carefully is critical.

Practical Tips to Avoid Timing Problems with your Vietnam e-visa

To minimize the risk of reapplying:

_ Apply only after your travel dates are reasonably fixed.

_ Avoid applying too early if your flight schedule, accommodation, or passport renewal is not finalized.

_ If your plans have slight flexibility, consider choosing an entry date a few days earlier and an exit date slightly later in your application to allow for minor changes.

Conclusion

Below is all that you need to keep in mind for your Vietnam e-visa application timing:

_ You can apply for a Vietnam e-visa as early as one year before your intended entry date

_ Applying 4–8 weeks before travel is the most practical time frame.

Careful timing helps avoid unnecessary re-applications, additional fees, and last-minute complications - allowing you to focus on preparing for your trip to Vietnam with confidence and saving you from all the visa-related stress.

Reference: *1 https://evisa.gov.vn/faq