As citizens of just 24 countries can visit Vietnam visa-free, the majority of travelers need to apply for a visa to enter the country.

Foreign nationals from 80 nations are now able to apply for the Vietnam eVisa. Although this is the simplest way to obtain the document, some applicants make mistakes when completing the application leading to the visa being denied and the fee being lost.

The most common grounds for eVisa application rejection are detailed below as well as other reasons for denied entry at the border.

Why Has My Vietnam eVisa Application Been Rejected?

It can be stressful when an eVisa application is rejected, especially when travel arrangements have already been made, as it is not possible to enter Vietnam without a valid visa.

Furthermore, as the reason why the application was not approved is not always clear, a positive result is not always guaranteed the second time around.

Foreign citizens need to take great care when filling in the form as even the smallest error can lead to the application being turned down or even being turned away at the border.

What Happens if your Vietnam eVisa is Rejected?

When a Vietnam eVisa request is denied, the applicant is notified by email. They will usually be notified within 72 hours of submitting the request.

Applicants whose original eVisa application is denied should not panic, they may still be able to get an entry permit.

Travelers then have the opportunity to correct and resubmit their application, or apply for a different type of visa if they cannot meet the requirements.

Vietnam eVisa rejection is not common, most applications are successful.

Difference Between Vietnam Visa Refusal and Rejection

Travelers will often hear the terms visa refusal and rejection used interchangeably. While both terms indicate the application was denied, there is a difference.

• Vietnam visa rejection—the eVisa application form has mistakes, incorrect photograph etc. These issues can usually be corrected.
• Vietnam visa refusal—the applicant does not meet Vietnam’s eVisa requirements, for example their nationality is not eligible.

Whether a Vietnam visa application was rejected or refused determines the next step.

Foreigners can reapply online for the eVisa if the original request was rejected. If it was refused, they will need to contact an embassy of Vietnam.

Is It Possible to Get a Vietnam Visa After Rejection or Refusal?

Yes, it is possible to get a Vietnam visa after rejection or refusal. In the unlikely event that the original application was not successful, there are 2 possible courses of action:

• Reapply with the correct information

If the visa application was rejected due to incorrect or missing information on the application form, it can be corrected and resubmitted.

• Apply for an embassy visa

If the visa application was refused because the traveler does not meet the Vietnam eVisa requirements, they need to get their visa through the embassy.

Foreigners cannot travel to Vietnam until they have received the approved visa. Although most Vietnam eVisas are approved within 72 hours, it’s advisable to allow extra time in case of any processing issues.

Common Mistakes when Applying for a Visa in Vietnam

Here are some of the most common mistakes made when applying for the Vietnam Visa.

Spelling mistakes or incorrect details on the application form

It is essential that everything is spelled correctly when completing the online form. The following details must appear exactly as they do on the passport:

• Full name
• Passport number
• Date of birth.

If any of these details are entered incorrectly the eVisa may be rejected or, even if approved, entry will be refused at the border if passport and visa details do not match.

Specialized agencies with experience completing the applications can avoid such mistakes being made and therefore reduce the chances of being turned away at the border.

The photo does not meet the specific criteria

When applying for the eVisa, a passport-style photograph has to be provided. This must meet the strict photo requirements for the Vietnam visa online or the application will be rejected.

Each of the following will be assessed before the image is accepted:

• The format and weight of the photo
• The clarity and quality of the photo
• The subject’s facial expression
• How accessories such as glasses and scarves are worn.

Issues with photographs are a major reason why eVisa applications are rejected, if this happens a new application will need to be made.

The same specifications apply when requesting a Vietnam visa on arrival. Applicants must provide 2 photographs printed on glossy paper to accompany the previously obtained Vietnam Approval Letter.

Other Reasons for Denial of Entry Into Vietnam

Even if an eVisa application is accepted, this does not guarantee admission to Vietnam. if mistakes have been made when completing the form, foreigners may be denied access at the border.

One of the most frequent issues travelers face at the border is with the date of arrival. The eVisa is valid from the date supplied when making the application not, as many people mistakenly believe, on the date of entry into the country.

This confusion leads to some tourists attempting to enter Vietnam once their eVisa has already expired and, naturally, they are refused access.

Other issues that arise concern the visitor’s passport. To enter Vietnam it is required that passports:

• Are in good condition, not damaged or dirty
• Be valid for at least another 6 months
• Include a photograph that is clearly identifiable as the holder.

How to Avoid Being Refused Entry to Vietnam

The best way to avoid being denied entrance to Vietnam is to apply for the Vietnam eVisa rather than the visa on arrival, as any problems with the application can be detected and corrected in advance.

As the eVisa fee must be paid each time an application is made, it can be costly if several applications are rejected.

To ensure the form and supporting documents are submitted correctly, and therefore avoid paying the government fee multiple times, travelers can seek the services of a specialized agency.

With their expertise and experience, such agencies reduce the likelihood of the eVisa application being turned down. Moreover, should the application be rejected, the agency fees will be refunded.