A correctly formatted photo is one of the most overlooked yet critical components of a Vietnam visa application. While Vietnam visa photo requirements are relatively simple, submitting a non-compliant image remains a leading cause of application delays and rejections. For a complete overview of everything needed for your application, refer to our Vietnam visa requirements guide
Vietnam Visa Photo Requirements Actually Matter?
A passport-style photo is required for all foreign nationals submitting a Vietnam visa application. Failure to meet the Vietnam visa photo specifications set by the Immigration Department may result in processing delays or outright rejection of the application.
|
Visa Type |
Photo Requirements |
|
Vietnam Immigration Visa |
· 1 photo (4×6 cm or 2×2 in) · 1 completed application form |
|
E-visa |
· 1 portrait photo (4×6 cm, white background, recently taken) · Clear scan of passport data page |
|
Visa on Arrival |
· 2 photos (4×6 cm, white background, no glasses) · Taken within 6 months |
Who this guide is for?
- International tourists planning to visit Vietnam.
- Business travelers who will apply for a Vietnam eVisa or visa on arrival.
- Overseas Vietnamese or family members who need to check photo rules before applying.
- Anyone who has already started a Vietnam eVisa application but wants to double‑check if their photo is correct.
Vietnam Visa Photo Standards and Specifications (2026)
Basic Vietnam visa photo rules:
- Passport-style, 2D, full face, looking straight ahead
- Size 4×6 cm or 35×45 mm (approximately 2×2 inches)
- Photo must have been taken within 6 months of the application date
- Minor adjustments are acceptable, filters, heavy retouching, or any alterations that change your natural appearance are not permitted
Always submit a recent photo that accurately reflects your current appearance to avoid additional scrutiny at immigration.
Vietnam visa application photo detail requirements
Photo background with lighting requirements:
- Plain white or light solid color background, no patterns, logos, or visible shadows
- Even and well-diffused, no harsh shadows, overexposed spots, or glare on the face
- Expression:
- Face fully visible, eyes open, looking directly at the camera
- Neutral expression or a natural, relaxed smile
- Frowning, open-mouth smiling, or looking in any direction other than straight ahead is not acceptable
Clear lighting and a plain background are the two factors immigration officers check first on any Vietnam visa photo.
Dress Code and Headwear Rules
- Standard casual attire in neutral tones, avoid uniforms, overly dark colors, or visually distracting patterns.
- Hats, caps, and headscarves that obscure the hairline or any part of the face are not permitted.
- Religious or medical headwear may be acceptable provided the full face remains clearly visible; confirm with the official Vietnam e‑visa portal or relevant embassy before submitting.
- Dark or tinted lenses are not allowed under any circumstances.
- Prescription glasses are generally accepted provided they do not produce reflections or obstruct the eyes in any way.
Among the most frequent causes of Vietnam visa photo rejection are incorrect background color, poor lighting, and non‑compliant headwear or eyewear. Review all three carefully before submitting your application.
Before submitting your application, review our guide on common Vietnam visa photo mistakes to avoid to ensure your photo meets all official requirements.
If you have any questions or run into any issues during your application, do not hesitate to reach out. Our team is available to assist you at any stage of the process.
- Phone/WhatsApp: (+84) 856 598 868
- Email: info@simplevietnamvisa.com
*Visa requirements and regulations are referenced based on the official guidelines from the Immigration Department of Vietnam
Frequently Asked Questions
You can take a Vietnam visa photo at home by using a plain white wall, good lighting, and a clear camera or phone, then crop it to 4×6 cm or 35×45 mm. Several Vietnam visa photo apps online can help you resize and format the image to meet official specifications automatically.
An approved Vietnam visa photo features a plain white background, even lighting, full face visible from the front, neutral or relaxed expression, no headwear, no tinted lenses, and correct dimensions of 4×6 cm. The photo must have been taken within the last 6 months and accurately reflect your current appearance.
If your photo is rejected, retake it ensuring compliance with all Vietnam visa photo specifications. For assistance, contact our team via: Phone/WhatsApp (+84) 856 598 868 or email: info@simplevietnamvisa.com.
