Vietnam Visa Photo Requirements: Size, Background and More

Vietnam is one of those destinations where the visa process feels easy until a small detail causes an unexpected delay. Photos are that detail more often than not. After handling countless applications, one pattern stays consistent. Travellers rarely expect a photo to be the reason their Vietnam visa slows down. Yet Vietnam Visa Photo Requirements are checked very closely, especially for electronic visas.

Vietnam Visa Photo Requirements are not complicated, but they are precise. Immigration systems do not adjust images, and officers do not make exceptions for casual photos. The photo uploaded is reviewed exactly as it is. This is why understanding the rules early saves time, money, and stress.

One simple thing helps more than anything else. Treat the visa photo like an official identity image, not a travel memory. That mindset alone prevents most rejections.

Vietnam Visa Photo Size

Size is the first technical detail that causes confusion. Vietnam Visa Photo Requirements clearly state that the correct photo size is 4 by 6 centimetres. Digitally, this usually translates to around 400 by 600 pixels, depending on resolution.

The face should fill most of the frame, roughly 70 percent. Too much empty space above the head or cutting off the chin leads to rejection. The head must be centred, facing forward, with shoulders visible but not dominating the image.

Vietnam Visa Photo Size requirements apply equally to physical photos and online submissions. For electronic visas, the Vietnam visa application photo size must match exactly. Stretching or shrinking photos often reduces clarity, and the system picks that up immediately.

Travellers who apply through akbartravels.com usually avoid these sizing errors because photos are checked manually before submission, which makes a real difference.

Background & Quality

Background rules sound simple, but they are strict in practice. Vietnam Visa Photo Requirements allow only a plain white or very light background. Off white walls, light grey shades, or textured studio backdrops often get rejected.

Lighting should be even and natural. Shadows behind the head, under the eyes, or along the nose are common reasons for delays. Photos taken near windows during the day usually work better than those taken under indoor lights.

Vietnam visa photo specifications also focus on clarity. Blurry images, grainy uploads, or photos taken from printed copies are flagged quickly. The system checks sharpness automatically.

A field based observation seen many times is this. Photos sent through messaging apps lose quality. Always upload the original image file to meet Vietnam Visa Photo Requirements properly.

Expression

Expression rules are straightforward. Vietnam Visa Photo Requirements ask for a neutral expression. This does not mean looking tense or unhappy. A calm, relaxed face works best.

Smiling with teeth is not accepted. Eyes must be open and clearly visible. Looking slightly down, tilting the head, or turning sideways often leads to rejection.

Many travellers reuse passport photos from older trips. If the expression looks casual or posed, it may not pass current checks. This small detail causes more rejections than most people realise.

Quality

Quality goes beyond resolution alone. Vietnam Visa Photo Requirements expect natural skin tones and true colours. Heavy filters, editing apps, or beauty enhancements distort facial features and often cause refusal.

The photo should be recent, ideally taken within the last six months. Changes in hairstyle, facial hair, or appearance can raise questions during verification.

Scanning printed photos reduces sharpness and contrast. Always use the original digital file when uploading for a Vietnam visa application.

Headgear

Head coverings are allowed only for religious reasons. Vietnam Visa Photo Requirements clearly state that the full face must be visible from chin to forehead. No shadows from fabric should fall on the face.

Caps, hats, or fashion headwear are not accepted. Even light head coverings for non religious reasons often lead to delays.

Glasses are best avoided. While not strictly banned, reflections and frames covering the eyes frequently cause rejection. Removing glasses is the safest option.

Vietnam e visa photo requirements for children

Children follow the same Vietnam Visa Photo Requirements as adults, with slight flexibility for infants. The face must still be clearly visible, even if posture is not perfect.

The background should remain plain and light. Toys, hands, or blankets covering any part of the face can cause rejection. Open eyes are preferred, though newborns are given some leeway.

Parents often submit photos where they are holding the child. These are commonly rejected if any part of the adult appears in the frame. Placing the child on a light sheet and taking the photo from above usually works best.

How to use Vietnam e visa photo

Uploading the photo correctly is just as important as taking it properly. Vietnam Visa Photo Requirements specify that the photo should be uploaded in JPEG format and within the file size limit of the portal.

Avoid excessive compression. Compression reduces clarity and detail. Always check the preview before final submission. If the image looks dark, pixelated, or unclear on screen, it is unlikely to be approved.

Many travellers find it easiest to apply through akbartravels.com because the team handles formatting, uploads, and quality checks smoothly, reducing technical errors.

Visa Duration and Stay Limits

Photo accuracy directly affects processing time. A correct photo usually leads to faster approval. An incorrect one resets the review timeline.

Most tourist visas allow a stay of up to 30 days. Single entry visas are common, though other Vietnam visa types exist depending on travel needs. Photo rules remain the same across categories.

Processing time for a Vietnam E Visa is usually three to five working days. During peak travel seasons, delays are common. Incorrect photos are one of the top reasons for extended processing.

Travellers planning a Vietnam trip often finalise flights and accommodation early. When booking cheap flights to Vietnam or confirming Vietnam tour packages, visa timelines should always be considered.

Common Mistakes That Lead to Visa Issues

Here is what actually causes problems at the review stage.

  • Using selfies with uneven lighting.
  • Uploading photos with shadows or textured backgrounds.
  • Cropping group photos instead of taking a fresh one.
  • Submitting scanned printed photos.
  • Wearing glasses with glare or thick frames.
  • Using old photos that no longer match current appearance.

Vietnam Visa Photo Requirements are firm but reasonable. Following them carefully avoids unnecessary delays.

Travellers staying at the best hotels in Vietnam often assume the visa part is done once submitted. In reality, the photo decides how smoothly the process moves forward.

FAQs:

Q.Can a mobile phone photo be used for a Vietnam visa?

Yes. As long as it meets Vietnam Visa Photo Requirements, phone photos are acceptable.

Q.Is smiling allowed in a Vietnam visa photo?

A neutral expression is required. Smiling with teeth is not accepted.

Q.What is the official Vietnam Visa Photo Size?

The standard size is 4 by 6 centimetres.

Q.Are glasses allowed in visa photos?

They are not recommended. Reflections often cause rejection under Vietnam visa photo specifications.

Q.Do children need separate photos?

Yes. Each applicant, including children, needs an individual photo.

Q.How recent should the photo be?

The photo should be taken within the last six months.

Q.Is a light coloured background acceptable instead of white?

No. Only white or very light plain backgrounds are allowed.

Q.Are printed photos required for an e visa?

No. Digital photos are sufficient for electronic visas.

Q.What happens if the photo is rejected?

The application is delayed until a correct photo is uploaded.

Q.Where is the safest place to apply from?

Many travellers prefer akbartravels.com because photo checks are done carefully before submission.

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