2027 Hong Kong Citizen Vietnam E-Visa Online Application Guide | Application Process and Steps, Complete in 5 Minutes

Vietnam has always been a popular travel destination for Hong Kong residents—whether it is the French-colonial charm of Ho Chi Minh City, the sun and beaches of Da Nang, or the authentic Vietnamese pho in Hanoi, countless Hongkongers set off every year. With increasingly frequent economic and trade exchanges between Vietnam and Hong Kong, business travelers heading to Vietnam for work and inspections are also continuously rising. Before departure, a visa is the very first hurdle that must be cleared.

Starting in 2026, the Vietnam Electronic Visa (E-Visa) ushered in major reforms, with further system optimizations continuing into 2027. Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) passport holders can now apply completely online, with no need to queue at consulates or mail passports. This article is specially curated for Hong Kong citizens, providing a complete overview of the latest 2027 Vietnam E-Visa regulations, application processes, filling tutorials, and processing times, helping you easily secure your visa and set off smoothly.

I. Six Major Highlights of the 2027 Vietnam E-Visa Policy (Applicable to Hong Kong Citizens)

Vietnam’s electronic visa underwent major reforms through Resolution No. 127/NQ-CP, further perfecting the overall system in 2027. Here are the key points Hong Kong applicants must know:

Policy HighlightDescription
Open GloballyVietnam E-Visa is officially open to citizens of all countries and regions worldwide; HKSAR passport holders are fully eligible.
Max 90-Day StayE-Visa validity is extended up to 90 days, completely breaking through the previous 30-day limit, with options for single or multiple entry.
83 Designated PortsApplicable ports have expanded to 83, including 15 international airports, multiple land border checkpoints, and seaports.
Business Visa Without Invitation LetterBusiness electronic visas completely eliminate the need for a guarantee letter or invitation letter from a Vietnamese company; you only need to fill in the intended Vietnamese company name and address, a policy that continues through 2027.
Customizable Visa Start DateApplicants can specify the start date of the visa during application, making travel planning much more flexible.
Complete Online ProcessFrom application and payment to receiving the visa PDF, everything is done online without needing a physical visit to a consulate.

Major international airports include: Noi Bai International Airport (HAN, Hanoi), Tan Son Nhat International Airport (SGN, Ho Chi Minh City), Da Nang International Airport (DAD, Da Nang), Cam Ranh International Airport (CXR, Nha Trang), and Phu Quoc International Airport (PQC, Phu Quoc Island).

II. Hong Kong Citizen Eligibility and Passport Regulations

As of 2027, Vietnam has not yet implemented a comprehensive visa-free policy for HKSAR passport holders. Below is the applicability for various types of passports:

Passport TypeVisa RequirementDescription
HKSAR PassportVisa RequiredMost recommended to apply for an E-Visa; processed entirely online.
BNO PassportVisa RequiredNot eligible for E-Visa. Must apply in person for a traditional visa at the Consulate General of Vietnam in Hong Kong (Wan Chai) or apply for a landing visa approval letter.
Holding Both HKSAR & BNORecommended: Use HKSARStrongly recommended to use the HKSAR passport to apply for an E-Visa for a smoother and faster process.
APEC Business Travel Card (ABTC) HoldersVisa-FreeHolders of a valid ABTC card can enter mainland Vietnam visa-free for stays up to 90 days.

Special Rule for Phu Quoc Island: If your trip is strictly limited to Phu Quoc Island and you fly directly into Phu Quoc International Airport (PQC), you enjoy a 30-day visa exemption. However, if your itinerary includes mainland Vietnamese cities (such as Ho Chi Minh City, Hanoi, or Da Nang), the exemption does not apply, and you must obtain a visa in advance. To keep your itinerary flexible, it is strongly recommended to apply for an E-Visa before departure.

III. Pre-Application Essential Document Checklist

Before filling out the application form, please prepare the following digital files (smartphone photos are acceptable, but must be clear):

ItemSpecification Requirements
Passport ScanValidity must be at least 6 months from the date of entry; full spread of the data page without reflections or obstructions; recommended to have at least 2 consecutive blank pages.
Digital ID PhotoTaken within the last 6 months, white background, full face, no glasses, ears visible; 4×6 cm specification, JPG format, file size under 2MB.
Vietnam Contact InfoTourism: Name and address of the first night’s hotel; Business: Name and address of the partner Vietnamese company.
Port of EntryConfirmed entry airport code (e.g., SGN, HAN, DAD, etc.).
Valid EmailUsed to receive the application confirmation code and visa results.
Credit CardSupports international payments such as Visa, Mastercard, JCB, etc.

Photo specifications are the cause of rejections, so please follow them strictly: Pure white background, no shadows, head occupying 70-80% of the frame, direct front view, eyes open, natural expression, no glasses or hats. The system automatically compares the MRZ (Machine Readable Zone) at the bottom of the passport; any mismatch will lead to immediate rejection.

IV. Step-by-Step Application Guide (7 Steps)

  • Step 1: Access the Application WebsiteGo to the official Vietnam Immigration electronic visa website or apply through a professional agency website:Agency Application Link: https://www.vietnam-visa.in/apply-vietnam-visa/
  • Step 2: Read Instructions and Start ApplicationCarefully read the application notes, check to agree to the terms, and enter the formal application page.
  • Step 3: Upload Photo and Passport ScanSequentially upload the compliant ID photo and passport data page scan. The system will automatically check if the photo passes, displaying a ✓ upon success. If it fails, please replace the photo.
  • Step 4: Fill Out the Online Application Form (All in English)Fill in personal details, passport information, port of entry, visa type, and effective dates item by item. Name spelling must match the passport exactly; a single letter error will cause review delays. For nationality, select “Hong Kong” or “China (Hong Kong SAR)”, and select “Ordinary Passport” for passport type.
  • Step 5: Review Details and SubmitDouble-check all filled-in content before submission. Once confirmed, submit the application. The system will generate a Registration Code. Please be sure to screenshot and save it—this is your only credential for checking progress later or initiating expedited services.
  • Step 6: Online PaymentComplete payment using a credit card, supporting international payment methods such as Visa, Mastercard, and JCB. If payment fails more than 3 times, it is recommended to change payment methods or process through an agency.
  • Step 7: Wait for Review and Receive VisaOnce approved, the visa PDF will be sent to your provided email address. Please make sure to print it in color on A4 paper. Some ports of entry recommend printing two copies as backup to keep alongside your passport.

V. Electronic Visa Fee Overview

The following fees include all costs (agency fees and visa fees). Visa success and timely delivery are guaranteed; full refunds are provided if unsuccessful.

1-Month Single Entry

Processing TimeTourist VisaBusiness Visa
4 Working Days70 USD80 USD
3 Working Days90 USD100 USD
2 Working Days110 USD120 USD
1 Working Day150 USD160 USD
4 Working Hours190 USD200 USD

1-Month Multiple Entry

Processing TimeTourist VisaBusiness Visa
4 Working Days100 USD110 USD
3 Working Days120 USD130 USD
2 Working Days140 USD150 USD
1 Working Day180 USD190 USD
4 Working Hours220 USD230 USD

3-Month Single Entry

Processing TimeTourist VisaBusiness Visa
4 Working Days90 USD100 USD
3 Working Days110 USD120 USD
2 Working Days130 USD140 USD
1 Working Day170 USD180 USD
4 Working Hours210 USD220 USD

3-Month Multiple Entry

Processing TimeTourist VisaBusiness Visa
4 Working Days120 USD130 USD
3 Working Days140 USD150 USD
2 Working Days160 USD170 USD
1 Working Day200 USD210 USD
4 Working Hours240 USD250 USD

Official basic government fees: 25 USD for single entry, 50 USD for multiple entry (excluding expedited and agency service fees).

VI. 5 Important Notes for Hong Kong Applicants

  1. Prioritize Using HKSAR Passport for ApplicationsIf you hold both an HKSAR passport and a BNO passport, please 100% prioritize using your HKSAR passport to apply for the electronic visa for a smoother and faster process. BNO passports are not eligible for E-Visas and require visiting the consulate in person, which takes longer.
  2. Strict Photo Requirements – A Top Cause of Rejections
RequirementsCorrect PracticeCommon Mistakes
BackgroundPure white, no shadowsGray background, wall shadows, selfie backgrounds
Size4×6 cm, head occupies 70-80%Incorrect size, head too small or too large
ExpressionDirect front, eyes open, naturalWearing glasses, hats, masks, side profile
FormatJPG or JPEG, clear and unblurredFile too large/small, blurry scans
  1. Passport Requirements: 6-Month Validity & 2 Blank PagesAll visa types require: Passport validity of at least 6 months from the date of entry; at least 2 consecutive blank pages for entry stamps.
  2. Visa on Arrival Fees: Prepare US Dollar CashAirport visa-on-arrival counters only accept US dollar paper bills (Hong Kong dollars or credit cards are not accepted). It is recommended to prepare the exact fee (25 USD) to avoid change delays or exchange rate losses. Bills must be clean and undamaged; old or wrinkled bills may be rejected.
  3. Electronic Visa Entry: Must Print Hard CopySome Vietnamese port customs do not accept electronic files displayed on mobile phones. It is recommended to print the E-Visa PDF in color on A4 paper and store it together with your passport. Back up the digital file on your phone and email before departure to prevent physical loss.

VII. Frequently Asked Questions for Hong Kong Residents

  • Q1: Can HKSAR passport holders travel to Vietnam visa-free?As of 2027, Vietnam has not implemented a visa-free policy for HKSAR passports. All HKSAR passport holders traveling to Vietnam must apply for a visa. The most recommended method is applying for an E-Visa online, which is handled completely on the web without visiting a consulate in person.
  • Q2: Can BNO passport holders apply for a Vietnam E-Visa?BNO passport holders are not eligible to apply for the Vietnam electronic visa and must apply in person at the Consulate General of Vietnam in Hong Kong (Wan Chai) for a traditional visa or apply for a landing visa approval letter. If you also hold an HKSAR passport, it is strongly recommended to use your HKSAR passport to apply for the E-Visa.
  • Q3: Can the Vietnam electronic visa stay duration be extended?Electronic visas cannot be extended while inside Vietnam. If you need to extend your stay in Vietnam, you must apply for other types of visas in advance or leave Vietnam first before submitting a new visa application.
  • Q4: Phu Quoc is visa-free—can I visit Da Nang along the way?No. The Phu Quoc visa-free policy only applies within the island. If your itinerary includes other regions of Vietnam (such as Da Nang, Hanoi, or Ho Chi Minh City), you must apply for a valid Vietnam visa in advance.
  • Q5: What should I do if my application is rejected or information is filled out incorrectly?HKSAR passport holders can reapply by submitting a completely new application with all information refilled from scratch (Note: you cannot reuse the old application code), uploading compliant passport data pages and recent personal photos, and paying the fee again if necessary. If you have urgent needs, you can use the acceleration/boost service to speed up processing.

VIII. Contact Information

If you have any visa questions or need urgent assistance, you can contact our visa experts directly:

📧 Email: info@vietnam-visa.in

💬 WeChat: vietnam-visa

💬 LINE: https://line.me/ti/p/nqB711G8TX

🌐 Online Application: https://www.vietnam-visa.in/apply-vietnam-visa/

Boost/Expedited Service (Applied on official site but stuck): https://www.vietnam-visa.in/boost-your-e-visa-application-form/

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