Why is My Vietnam E-Visa Taking So Long? 7 Reasons For Delays & What To Do

Below are what we have received from customers:

"We booked a trip to Vietnam but were unable to board our flight because our visas are still under processing. The delay occurred first due to a single incorrect letter, and later because of a photo issue." - Mss Tagarroso

"My partner and I are travelling to Vietnam on Sunday May 5th. Our Visa's are still processing and we are becoming worried. Any help would be appreciated." Mr. Rory

"I was scheduled to travel to Vietnam today (05/03/2025). I submitted a visa through the official government website a few days ago. However, it is still processing." Ms. Sandra

"i applied for an evisa on the official immigation website of Vietnam (https://evisa.gov.vn) on Dec. 5th 2024 and it is still "processing" and my flight is Friday 13th december. I am getting really stressed as i am worried that my passport scan did not meet the requirements" Mr. Duc

"I applied for an E Visa 8 days ago and I have still not received it. Is it normal ? It said it's in processing just because I put an « incorrect full name ». How can I do ?" Ms. Alice

If your Vietnam e-visa application remains in "Processing" status beyond the expected timeframe, there may be specific reasons for this delay. This guide outlines common causes and how to respond appropriately.

1. The Processing Time Isn't Always 3 Days

Yes, the official e-visa processing time is up to 3 working days — but that's not always the case. In reality, the Immigration Department can take up to 15 working days to process your visa, especially if your application requires amendments or if the number of applications piles up after public holidays.

What you can do:

• Spare at least 5–7 working days for the visa to be processed
• Avoid booking flights or hotels before your visa is approved.
• For urgent trips, consider using a rush visa service to save time (more on that below).

2. Your information is missing or mistyped

Here are what happen:

• You forget to include ALL your middle names in the application
• You mistype your first name/ last name/ middle name even by just 1 letter
• Your date of birth is wrongly selected, even by just 1 digit
• You leave out your temporary address in Vietnam (hotel name, full address), that can slow things down too.

All of this can lead to longer review or requested additional supporting documents so it is best to make sure you input all the correct information before submitting your application.

What you can do:

• Make sure your full name (including middle name) matches the ICAO line on your passport
• Provide the full address of your accommodation in the application
• Review the details carefully before submission

3. Your Photo or Passport Scan Did Not Meet Requirements

One of the most common delays comes from incorrect format or unclear photo uploads. This is the official guidelines for photo scan:

"A recently taken photo of the e-visa applicant, size 4 x 6 cm, in JPEG format, file size ≤ 2 MB, front-facing, without hat, without glasses, in formal attire, with a white background."

Source: https://dichvucong.bocongan.gov.vn

Here are the most frequently encountered problem with your photo / passport scan:

• Photo size too large or wrong format (must be JPG/PNG under 2MB)
• Blurry or dark passport scan
• Background not white or neutral
• Re-using the same image for both "passport photo" and "passport page"
• Cropped images or glare on the passport

What you can do:

• Carefully review your uploaded images before submission
• Make sure the photo and passport scan meet all format and quality requirements
• Check your application status regularly in case updates or corrections are needed

4. Your Application Requires Additional Supporting Documents

While many Vietnam e-visa applications are processed using the standard application form, certain applicants may be required to submit supporting documents for further verification. These may include:

• A return flight ticket
• Proof of accommodation (such as hotel bookings)
• Evidence of sufficient financial means for the trip
• A sponsor or invitation letter (for business visa applicants)
• Full legal name matching the ICAO line of the passport (including middle name)

In addition, e-passport holders from certain countries may not be eligible for Vietnam e-visa and could face automatic rejection.

What you can do:

• Prepare supporting documents such as return flight, hotel booking, or financial proof if needed
• For business visas, obtain a sponsor letter from the inviting company in Vietnam

5. You Didn't Know There Was a Request for Correction

You might not receive an email notification if your application contains errors or requires updates. Instead, the application status is updated on the official website, so it's important to check it regularly for any changes. Many travelers don't realize they were asked to correct something until it's too late.

What you can do:

• Use your registration code + email + DOB to check your application status at https://evisa.gov.vn/e-visa/search
• Check daily — especially around day 3–5 after you apply
• Look for any notice asking to fix a photo or passport info
• If you see a request, respond immediately — or your application might just expire

6. You Applied Right Before or During a Holiday

If you submitted your application just before or during a Vietnamese public holiday (such as Tet or National Day), processing may take longer than usual. During these periods, many government offices, including immigration, operate on reduced schedules, which can result in higher application volumes and extended review times.

What you can do:

• Plan ahead, apply for a visa at least 4-6 weeks before your departure date and always check for the upcoming public holidays in Vietnam.
• If you're in a rush, you can use a rush visa service — some agencies can process new e-visa applications in as little as 2–4 hours

7. You Applied While Already Inside Vietnam

The e-visa is only applicable for travelers entering Vietnam from abroad. If you applied while already in the country — even if just for a quick visa run — your application might be flagged or rejected without notice.

What you can do:

• Make sure you are outside of Vietnam before applying, or exit the country before submitting a new visa application
• Prepare a scan of your exit stamp in case it's needed to confirm your departure

What If You've Waited Too Long?

If your application has been "Processing" for over 7 working days, here are your options:

1 - Check for status manually

Go to https://evisa.gov.vn/e-visa/search and check your status. See if there's a request for correction.

2- Contact Immigration directly

Send an email to foreigners@xuatnhapcanh.gov.vn with your code and ask for an update.

3- Start over with a rush service

If you're flying soon and still don't have your visa, don't wait anymore. Use a reliable emergency visa agency that can help you get an e-visa or visa on arrival approval letter fast — usually within 2 business days, 1 day, or even just 4 hours.

Local Tips

Getting stuck at "Processing" can be inconvenient — but it's more common than you think. To avoid delays:

• Apply early (4–6 weeks before your trip)
• Upload clear, correct photos and passport scans
• Check your status regularly