🌍 Why Eligibility Rules Differ by Nationality

Vietnam’s eVisa program began in 2017, expanded to 80+ nationalities in August 2023, and continues in 2025 as the main entry channel for tourists and short-term business travelers. However, processing times, rejection rates, and traveler experiences vary by nationality. Indians, Taiwanese, US/UK, and Australians account for a significant share of arrivals, each with distinct patterns.

For the full overview, see the Vietnam eVisa & Connectivity Pillar Guide.

🇮🇳 Vietnam eVisa for Indians

India has become a vital market for Vietnam. According to VNExpress reports, arrivals from India grew from 170,000 in 2019 to over 500,000 in 2024. The eVisa system simplified entry, but Indian travelers often face longer waiting times.

• ✔️ Eligibility: 30-day single-entry eVisa
• ✔️ Processing: Usually 5–7 working days, occasionally up to 10
• ✔️ Common issues: blurry passport photos, incorrect details in online forms

Case Study: In July 2025, a family of 4 applied 12 days before travel. Three approvals arrived in 6 days, but one delayed to day 9. They still made the trip, but stressed about ticket rebooking.

🇹🇼 Vietnam eVisa for Taiwanese

Taiwan is among the fastest-growing East Asian markets. Business and leisure travelers from Taipei, Kaohsiung, and Taichung frequently visit Ho Chi Minh City and Da Nang. Processing for Taiwanese passports is relatively smooth.

• ✔️ Eligibility: 30-day eVisa available online
• ✔️ Processing: Typically 3–4 days
• ✔️ Issues: rare, mostly mismatched passport number entries

Traveler Story: A Taiwanese tourist applied 5 days before departure in April 2025. Approval came in just 48 hours, allowing her to install her eSIM before travel and monitor updates online.

🇺🇸🇬🇧 Vietnam eVisa for US/UK Travelers

The US and UK remain key long-haul markets. According to the IATA Travel Centre, both passports qualify easily for Vietnam eVisa. Approval times are faster than average, with very low rejection rates.

• ✔️ Eligibility: 30-day single-entry eVisa
• ✔️ Processing: Usually 2–3 days
• ✔️ Issues: mainly when applying last minute (less than 72h before travel)

Case Study: In March 2025, a UK traveler applied 48 hours before his flight. Approval came in 36 hours, but airline staff warned him he was lucky — without approval he would not have boarded.

🇦🇺 Vietnam eVisa for Australians

Australia consistently ranks among the top five visitor markets for Vietnam, with direct flights from Sydney and Melbourne to HCMC and Hanoi. eVisa processing is reliable, though holiday periods cause delays.

• ✔️ Eligibility: 30-day eVisa
• ✔️ Processing: 3–5 working days
• ✔️ Issues: delays around Christmas and Lunar New Year

Traveler Story: In December 2024, an Australian traveler applied during the holiday rush. Approval took 8 days instead of the usual 3. She advised friends to apply at least 2 weeks early.

📜 Historical Context of Vietnam eVisa

Vietnam expanded its eVisa program in August 2023 from 40 to 80+ nationalities, covering most major markets. This has streamlined entry for travelers but also created backlogs during peak months. The government continues to update eligible countries; always verify on the official eVisa portal.

📊 Processing Times Compared

Based on 2024–2025 traveler reports:

• India: 5–7 days; occasional delays
• Taiwan: 3–4 days; reliable
• US/UK: 2–3 days; very reliable
• Australia: 3–5 days; delays at holidays

This variation shows why early application is critical.

💡 Tips for Tourists and Business Travelers

While requirements are the same, usage patterns differ:

• Tourists: Apply 2–3 weeks before trip; print eVisa for hotel check-ins
• Business travelers: Double-check entry/exit dates, as meetings often change
• Both should install a Vietnam eSIM to monitor status and show eVisa PDFs at immigration

❓ Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Do Indians face higher rejection rates?
A: Not officially. Most rejections come from incorrect data or unclear scans.

Q: Can Taiwanese apply last minute?
A: Some approvals come in 48h, but it’s risky. Apply 5+ days ahead.

Q: Can US/UK citizens extend their eVisa?
A: Extensions are possible via local immigration offices but require paperwork.

Q: Do Australians need multiple-entry visas?
A: For side trips to Cambodia/Laos, apply for embassy-issued multiple-entry visa.

Q: Is eligibility list updated often?
A: Yes, check the official portal for the latest nationalities covered.

🚀 Final Checklist

• ✅ Confirm nationality is eligible on official portal
• ✅ Apply early (2 weeks before)
• ✅ Print and carry eVisa approval
• ✅ Order a Vietnam eSIM for instant data on arrival

👉 Ready to apply? Start with our Vietnam eVisa & Connectivity Guide to avoid delays and stay connected from day one.