If you’re an Australian planning your next journey to Vietnam, one of the first questions that pops up is: “Do Australians need a visa for Vietnam?”
The short answer is yes, you do — but getting one isn’t complicated when you know how.
This complete 2025 guide by AFS Travel explains what Australian visitors should prepare before flying, how to apply for a visa smoothly, and which method suits you best.
Do Australians Need a Visa for Vietnam — The Short Answer
Yes. Every Australian traveler must apply for a visa before visiting Vietnam.
While citizens from several Asian and European countries enjoy visa-free entry, Australians are not included in Vietnam’s visa exemption list.
Having your Vietnam visa for Australians approved before departure ensures a smooth entry and avoids unnecessary delays at the airport.
So, whenever you ask “Do Australians Need a Visa for Vietnam?” — the answer is always a firm yes, no matter the purpose of your trip.
There are two main visa types available to Australian citizens:
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Tourist Visa (DL): for short-term holidays, sightseeing, or visiting family.
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Business Visa (DN): for conferences, meetings, or extended business stays.
Types of Vietnam Visas for Australian Citizens
Choosing the right visa depends on why you’re visiting. The most common options include:
- Tourist Visa (DL): For short-term stays, sightseeing, or family visits.
- Business Visa (DN): For meetings, trade visits, or professional work trips.
Both types are easy to apply for and can be obtained either online or at the Vietnamese Embassy in Australia.
How Australians Can Apply for a Vietnam Visa Online
For many travelers searching “Do Australians Need a Visa for Vietnam?”, the simplest solution is applying online through Vietnam Immigration.
If you’re wondering how to get your visa without visiting an embassy, the Visa on Arrival (VOA) system is the best choice. It’s fast, reliable, and officially managed by the Vietnam Immigration Department.
Instead of sending your passport by post, Australians can complete the entire process online — a method trusted by thousands of travelers every month.
Step-by-Step Guide to Applying Online
If you’re still wondering “Do Australians Need a Visa for Vietnam?”, here’s how to secure yours online in just a few steps:
- Visit the official Vietnam Immigration website: www.vietnam-immigration.org.vn.
- Complete the secure online application form.
- Pay the service fee with your debit or credit card.
- Receive your Visa Approval Letter by email within one to two working days.
- Print the letter and prepare these documents:
- Your passport (valid for at least 6 months)
- Two passport photos (4×6 cm)
- Visa stamping fee (paid in cash at the airport)
- Present everything at the Visa on Arrival counter when you land in Hanoi, Da Nang, or Ho Chi Minh City.
That’s it – no embassy visits, no long waits, and no lost mail.For most travelers searching “do Australians need a visa for Vietnam?”, this is the fastest and easiest solution.
>>> Read more: Vietnam Visa on Arrival for Australians: Your Complete Guide
Applying Through the Embassy: The Traditional Option Still Available
Some Australians still prefer having their visa physically stamped in their passport before leaving home. In that case, you can apply through the Vietnamese Embassy or Consulate in Australia. While it’s a bit slower, it remains a solid option if you prefer handling official paperwork directly.
Where Australians Can Apply in Person
If you’re still asking “Do Australians Need a Visa for Vietnam?”, this option remains valid for those who want to have their visa stamped before leaving Australia. These offices are authorized to issue visas and assist Australian citizens who want to secure their Vietnam visa before departure.
Below are the full contact details for both the Vietnamese Embassy and Vietnamese Consulate:
Vietnamese Embassy in Canberra
- Address: 6 Timbarra Crescent, O’Malley, ACT 2606
- Phone: +61-2-6286 6059
- Website: www.vietnamembassy.org.au
Vietnamese Consulate in Sydney (NSW)
- Address: Suite 205, Level 2, Edgecliff Centre, 203–233 New South Head Road, Edgecliff, NSW 2027
- Phone: (02) 9327 1912
- Website: www.vietnamconsulate.org.au
Documents Required When Applying at the Embassy
Before you head to the embassy or post your application, make sure you have:
- Your valid passport (minimum 6 months before expiry)
- A completed visa form (available at the embassy)
- One passport-sized photo
- The visa processing fee (varies by duration and type)
- A prepaid return envelope if applying by post
Processing typically takes 3–5 working days. Although it requires more effort than the online method, it offers peace of mind to travelers who prefer traditional processing.
>>> Read more: Visa Vietnam Australia – My Honest Guide After Doing It Myself (and How You Can Save Time)
Online vs. Embassy Visa – Which Is Better for Australians?
If you’re still unsure which method to choose, think about what matters most to you — speed, convenience, or preparation.
The online application is perfect for Australians who want a quick, paperless process. You can apply from anywhere, receive approval within days, and collect your visa at the airport when you land. On the other hand, the embassy option works well for travelers who prefer to have their visa pre-approved and printed before boarding their flight.
Common Questions About “Do Australians Need a Visa for Vietnam?”
Even though the process is simple, travelers often ask similar questions before applying. Here are a few of the most common ones answered by AFS Travel experts.
Q1: Do Australians need a visa for short stays in Vietnam?
Yes. Even short visits require a visa — there’s currently no visa-free entry for Australian citizens.
Q2: How long can Australians stay in Vietnam with a visa?
Tourist visas usually last 30 days, while business visas can extend up to 90 days.
Q3: Can I extend my visa once in Vietnam?
Yes, visa extensions are possible at local immigration offices or through AFS Travel’s visa support service.
Q4: How fast can Australians get a Vietnam visa?
Online applications can be processed within 1–2 working days, or even a few hours if you choose urgent service.
Expert Insight from AFS on Visa Processing
Over the years, we have supported thousands of Australians traveling to Vietnam — and the pattern is clear: those who apply online experience fewer issues and faster approvals.
The agency partners directly with Vietnam Immigration and Hanoi Explore Travel Agency, ensuring applications are accurate and compliant.
Beyond visas, AFS also helps with hotel bookings, airport fast-track services, and customized Vietnam itineraries for a seamless travel experience.
Final Thoughts – A Simple Answer to “Do Australians Need a Visa for Vietnam”
So, to wrap up — yes, Australians do need a visa for Vietnam. But getting one isn’t difficult at all when you understand your options. The online Visa on Arrival remains the easiest and most popular choice, while the embassy method offers a traditional alternative for travelers who prefer certainty before flying.
Whichever path you choose, AFS Travel can help ensure everything goes smoothly — from the visa process to the moment you step into Vietnam.
