Vietnam visa photo requirements are strict. This article helps you understand the correct size, format, background, attire, and how to avoid visa rejection.
Vietnam visa photo requirements are more than just a formality — they are essential criteria determining whether your application is accepted or rejected. Understanding the Vietnam visa photo requirements ensures you avoid delays and resubmissions caused by incorrect size, background, or expression. This guide will help first-time applicants submit the perfect visa photo.
1. Photo Size and Proportions for Vietnam Visa
Photo size and layout are among the key factors in Vietnam visa photo requirements – directly affecting the approval or rejection of your application. Therefore, applicants must clearly understand the regulations to avoid costly mistakes.
1.1. Standard Vietnam Visa Photo Size Must Know
Currently, Vietnam visa photo sizes follow both local and international standards, including:
- 4 x 6 cm (width x height – commonly used in Vietnam)
- 2 x 2 inches (widely accepted internationally)
Both sizes are accepted for e-visa, airport visa, and visa applications submitted at embassies or consulates. The photo must have been taken within the last 6 months, reflecting your current appearance, and should not be outdated or heavily edited.
For e-visa, digital photo submission is required and photos must be in color. The background must comply with official standards, the face must be visible, and the photo should not be cropped or have altered layouts.
1.2. Face Proportion and Composition
The face should occupy about 70–80% of the image’s height (32–36 mm from chin to top of the head). Eyes should be positioned around two-thirds from the bottom. Eyes must be open, mouth closed, and ears visible. Hair should not cover the eyes.
1.3. Difference Between E-Visa and In-Person Applications
There are differences between applying for an e-visa and submitting a physical application:
- E-Visa: Submit digital files of a portrait photo and passport page.
- Embassy/Airport Visa: Submit two identical printed photos that meet official size requirements.
2. File Format, Background, and Image Quality
In addition to size, visa photos must meet strict technical standards regarding file format, background, and sharpness. These are critical aspects of the Vietnam visa photo requirements that must be followed precisely.
2.1. File Format and Size Limits for E-Visa Submission
For e-visa applications, you must submit two digital image files following the Vietnam visa photo format:
- One portrait photo
- One image of the passport information page
These must meet the official photo requirements for Vietnam visa:
- Accepted formats: JPG, JPEG, or JPEG 2000 (recommended for high quality)
- File size limits:
- Portrait photo: Max 1024 KB
- Passport photo: Max 2048 KB
The system will automatically review photos after upload. If they don’t meet standards, you will receive an email requesting resubmission. Therefore, make sure your images are high quality, not overly compressed, and clearly display all details.
2.2. Background Color
According to Vietnam visa photo requirements, the photo background must be white or uniformly light-colored. Avoid:
- Patterns, shadows and objects behind the subject
- Uneven lighting across the background
- Clothing colors that blend into the background
A white background ensures contrast and highlights facial features for accurate identification. Incorrect background is a common reason for rejection.
3. Attire and Facial Expression Requirements
Attire and facial expression directly affect the validity of your photo and are essential parts of the Vietnam visa photo requirements. Non-compliant attire or expressions may result in photo rejection.
3.1. What to Wear in a Visa Photo
When taking a photo for a Vietnam visa, wear simple clothing in neutral or dark colors to contrast with the white background. White clothing may blend into the background. Do not wear uniforms (except for religious clothing worn daily). Additionally:
- Avoid large accessories, flashy jewelry, or prominent earrings.
- Avoid revealing or inappropriate clothing; visa photos require a formal appearance.
- Women should avoid off-shoulder tops or spaghetti straps, which often lead to rejection.
3.2. Glasses, Hats, and Accessories
Items worn on the head or around the eyes are strictly regulated:
- No sunglasses, tinted glasses, or reflective lenses
- Prescription glasses are acceptable if eyes are not obscured or reflecting light (removal is recommended unless necessary)
- Head coverings (e.g., hats, scarves) are only permitted for religious or medical reasons and must not obscure the face, forehead, or ears
Following these rules ensures your photo will be considered valid and helps speed up visa processing.
3.3. Facial Pose and Head Orientation Guidelines
Look directly at the camera, keep a neutral expression (no smiling or frowning), eyes open, mouth closed. Do not tilt or turn your head.To comply with photo requirements for Vietnam visa, your face must be positioned straight and fully visible.
Look directly into the camera with both eyes open and clearly shown. Maintain a neutral expression — avoid smiling, frowning, or raising your eyebrows. Your mouth should be closed, and your head must not be tilted or turned.
4. Common Mistakes When Taking Visa Photos
Despite understanding the basics, many applicants make common mistakes that lead to photo rejection.According to Vietnam visa photo requirements, even small violations can delay your application or require resubmission.
- Incorrect size or format: This is the most frequent error. Cropped photos, incorrect face proportions, or saving in unsupported formats like PDF or HEIC will result in rejection.
- Using filters or beauty apps: Photo-editing apps can distort your appearance and reduce recognizability. Effects such as skin smoothing, background change, eye enlargement, or overexposure are not allowed.
- Non-compliant background: Shadows, patterns, dark colors, or backgrounds that match your clothing reduce contrast and violate Vietnam visa photo requirements.
- Improper use of glasses, hats, or accessories: Reflective glasses, colored lenses, or fashion accessories that obscure eyes or ears are serious violations unless medically or religiously justified.
- Blurry, underexposed, or backlit photos: Your photo must be sharp, well-lit, and not blurry. Poor quality images are often auto-rejected by the system.
- Previewing your photo on a large screen and test-upload it before official submission is best.
(Source: Collected)
Conclusion
Ensuring your visa photo meets the official requirements is not just about technical compliance—it also shows your seriousness and attention to detail during the visa application process. Elements like size, format, clothing, background, and expression are all part of the Vietnam visa photo requirements and must be followed precisely!
