Vietnam visa photo: size, background, and how to take standard photos for e-visa and visa on arrival

A non-compliant Vietnam visa photo is one of the most common reasons why e-visa applications are requested for updates or rejected, and the paid visa fee is non-refundable. The good news is that you only need to master a few rules regarding size, background, and posture to easily take the photo yourself with your smartphone.

This article provides a detailed guide on photo requirements for e-visas, photos to attach to an application for a visa on arrival, passport data page photos, tips for taking photos at home, and common mistakes to avoid.

Which Vietnam Visa Photos Are Required?

Vietnam E-visa Portrait Photo Standards

Size and File Format

• Photo ratio of 4x6 (width 4, height 6), with the face occupying about 70–80% of the photo's height.
• JPG/JPEG format, file size not exceeding 2 MB.
• Clear and sharp image, not blurry or pixelated; do not use screenshots or PDF files.

Background and Lighting

• Plain white background, with no patterns or background objects.
• Even lighting on both sides of the face, with no shadows on the face or behind the head.
• Do not use beauty filters or edits that alter facial features.

Posture and Attire

• Look straight into the camera lens, keep head upright without tilting; maintain a natural expression with the mouth closed.
• No glasses (including prescription/reading glasses), no hats, and no masks or headphones.
• Hair must not cover the eyes or eyebrows; the entire face must be clearly visible from the top of the head to the chin.
• Religious head coverings are accepted provided that the entire face remains fully visible.
• Wear clothing that contrasts with the white background; avoid wearing white shirts, tank tops, or camisoles.

Passport Information Page Photo for E-Visa Applications

In addition to the portrait photo, the e-visa portal requires you to upload a photo of your passport information page (the page containing your photo). Requirements:

• Capture the entire page, clearly showing your photo, full name, date of birth, passport number, and expiration date.
• The two MRZ code lines (the string of characters containing <<< at the bottom of the page) must be fully visible and not cut off.
• No glare, no fingers obstructing any part, and no distortion or tilt.
• The passport must be valid for at least 6 months from the date of entry.

Photos for Visa on Arrival

If you are eligible for a Vietnam visa on arrival, please print two 4x6 cm photos with a white background, taken within the last 6 months. One photo should be affixed to the visa application form (Form NA1), while the other serves as a backup. Many airports offer on-site photo services, but they can be relatively expensive and require waiting in line, so preparing them in advance will save you time.

How to Take Your Own Vietnam Visa Photo with a Smartphone

1. Stand in front of a white wall, about 50 cm away from the wall to avoid casting shadows.
2. Take the photo in a space with natural light shining directly onto your face; avoid yellowish lighting.
3. Ask someone else to take the photo with the phone held at eye level, about 1–1.5 m away from your face; do not take selfies as they can easily distort facial proportions.
4. Turn off beauty mode, portrait background blur, and color filters.
5. Crop the photo to a 4x6 aspect ratio, centering your face and leaving a small space above your head.
6. Save the file in JPG format and ensure the file size is under 2 MB before uploading.

Common Mistakes When Taking Visa Photos

Frequently Asked Questions About Vietnam Visa Photos

What size should the Vietnam visa photo be?

The portrait photo must measure 4x6 cm with a white background. For e-visas, the photo must be in JPG format and not exceed 2 MB.

Can I wear glasses for my visa photo?

You should not wear glasses. Vietnam visa photos require applicants to look straight ahead without glasses to ensure clear facial recognition.

Can I reuse an old passport photo?

Only if the photo was taken within the last 6 months and meets the standards of a white background and looking straight ahead. Do not crop a photo from your passport page.

Are there any different requirements for children's photos?

The requirements are the same as for adults. Young children must keep their eyes open and look straight ahead, with no adult hands or toys visible in the frame.

What happens to an e-visa application if the photo does not meet the requirements?

The application may be requested to be updated or may be rejected, causing delays to the trip; the paid visa fee is non-refundable.

Need comprehensive support for foreign visitors?

If travelers prefer not to apply on their own, they can check out the Vietnam e-visa application service for foreigners to have their photos and information verified before submission. Once visitors have their visa, Huongdanviendulich.vn will accompany and support all remaining travel services for the trip:

• Post a free tour guide request: airport pickup, sightseeing tours, and interpretation. View the list of tour guides.
• Interpreters by language: English, Korean, Japanese, Chinese.
• Airport transfers, submit a tour request, or explore available city tours.

Photo requirements are compiled based on current guidelines and may be adjusted by competent authorities. Please check the instructions on the e-visa portal before submitting your application.