TL;DR: The Vietnam eVisa application requires a recent 4x6 cm portrait photo with a plain white background. Wearing glasses in the photo is the leading cause of application delays or rejections. If your application status is flagged as "Amended Application," you must log in to the official portal to update the photo. Once a visa is granted, errors cannot be corrected, and a new application is required.
Quick Facts
| Parameter | Official Specification | Actions & Requirements |
|---|---|---|
| Photo Size | 4x6 cm (Passport photo format, vertical) | Digital upload in JPG or JPEG format |
| Background | Plain white only | No shadows, patterns, or colored backgrounds |
| Glasses Policy | Sunglasses and tinted lenses are rejected; prescription glasses accepted only if eyes are fully visible with no glare | Removing glasses entirely is the safest approach |
| File Size | Under 2 MB | Must be a clear, high-resolution digital image |
| Amended Status | Can edit photo online with registration code | Submit on official search portal |
| Approved Visa Errors | Cannot be modified after approval | Must apply for a new visa and pay the USD 25 fee again |
Official Portrait Photo Specifications
When applying for the Vietnam eVisa, you must upload a digital portrait photo that meets the strict rules set by the Vietnam Immigration Department.
- Dimensions: 4x6 cm (width to height ratio of 2:3).
- Head Position: Look directly at the camera with a neutral expression and mouth closed. Your face must fill 70–80% of the photo area.
- Background: Plain white only. Do not stand against a textured wall or an off-white background with visible shadows.
- Recency: Taken within the last 6 months.
The Strict "No Glasses" Rule
While some countries allow clear prescription glasses in passport photos, the Vietnam Immigration Department is extremely strict.
The official rules permit prescription glasses if your eyes remain fully visible with no glare or reflection — sunglasses and tinted lenses are categorically rejected. In practice, the automated photo checker is highly sensitive to even subtle glare and flags applications frequently. Remove your glasses entirely for the portrait photo; it is the most reliable way to avoid a rejection or amendment request.
How to Check and Modify an "Amended Application"
If your photo does not meet the guidelines, your application status will change to "Amended Application" (often labeled as "For Amending").
Step 1: Check Your Status
Do not wait for an email notification. Log in to the official Vietnam eVisa Search Portal and enter your:
- Registration Code (provided during submission)
- Registered Email
- Date of Birth (format: DD/MM/YYYY)
Step 2: Edit Your Photo
- Locate the detailed reason for the amendment request (e.g., "Portrait photo is not eligible").
- Click the "Edit" button.
- Upload a new, compliant portrait photo that meets the 4x6 cm size and white background rules.
- Double-check that your passport data matches your passport's machine-readable zone (MRZ) perfectly.
To prevent typos and ensure passport MRZ data matches your form details perfectly, you can use the eVisaFlow Chrome Extension to automatically read and match passport information, eliminating manual input errors.
- Submit the updated form. The processing clock resets, and it typically takes another 3–5 working days to review the updated application.
Approved Visa Errors: The Point of No Return
If your visa is marked as "Granted" but you notice that your photo is blurry or your personal details contain a typo, you cannot edit the document.
Once issued, the eVisa is locked. Attempting to travel with mismatched passport details or an invalid photo will lead to denied boarding at the airport or rejected entry at the border. In this situation, your only option is to submit a new application on the official website and pay the USD 25 fee again.
References
- Official Vietnam eVisa Portal: Application Portal
- Vietnam eVisa Status Search: Official Search Page
- Vietnam Immigration Department: Official Portal
