Vietnam Visa Photo App

Citizens of the United States must obtain a visa to travel to Vietnam. A crucial part of the visa application process is providing a photograph that meets specific requirements. Adhering to these guidelines ensures your application proceeds smoothly without unnecessary delays.

What photo do you need to apply for a Vietnam visa?

You must submit a 4x6 cm (or 2x2 in) photograph taken within the last six months. The photo must include your entire head and the top of the shoulders against a light, plain background. Look directly at the camera and keep a neutral facial expression (no smiling or frowning).

For an online Vietnam e-Visa application, provide a digital picture in a JPG format no larger than 1024Kb.

Read on for a detailed explanation of all official Vietnam visa photo guidelines.

Vietnam visa photo requirements: Explained

To prevent your visa application from being rejected, you must provide a photograph that complies with the following specifications.

• Size: The standard size for a Vietnam visa photo is 4 cm in width and 6 cm in height (4x6 cm). Alternatively, a 2x2 inch photo is also acceptable. 
• Head size: Your head must fill up 70-80% of the image, which is around 32-26 mm in height from the bottom of the chin to the top of your head (excluding the hair). 
• Color and quality: The photo must be in color, printed on high-quality photo paper, and taken within the last six months to reflect your current appearance. Black and white photos or those with digital enhancements will be rejected.
• Background: A plain white or light-colored background without any patterns, shadows, or other distractions is required. Ensure that no objects or other people are visible in the background.
• Head position and facial expression: Face the camera directly with your head centered. Maintain a neutral facial expression with both eyes open and mouth closed. Smiling, frowning, or any other expressions aren't acceptable.
• Attire: Avoid white clothing to prevent blending with the background. Opt for darker colors to create a clear contrast. Uniforms or camouflage attire aren't allowed. Headwear is prohibited unless worn for religious or medical reasons, provided it doesn't obscure any facial features.
• Glasses and accessories: It's recommended to remove glasses to avoid issues with reflections or shadows. If you must wear prescription glasses, ensure they have clear lenses, and that your eyes are fully visible. Sunglasses or tinted lenses aren't permitted.
• Hair and headwear: You can wear your hair up or down as long as your face isn't obstructed. Bangs are acceptable unless they cover your eyes or eyebrows. You can wear headgear only for medical or religious purposes. Fashion accessories won't be accepted.
• Lighting: Use even lighting to avoid shadows or glare on your face or background. Natural daylight is ideal, but if using artificial lighting, ensure it's evenly distributed.

Vietnamese visa photo for babies and children

Children, like their parents, also need to provide a compliant Vietnamese visa picture. Here are the additional requirements to follow:

• Your child must be the only subject in the photo; you can't hold your baby.
• Objects such as toys, pacifiers or bottles aren't allowed.
• The child's eyes have to be open and the mouth closed. 
• Infants should be laid down on a plain white sheet, while older children can sit in a chair (the chair must be erased from the background).
• If a child is under 10 years old, their head must fill up 50-80% of the image (22-36 mm).

Visa photo submission: Online and on paper

US citizens can apply for a visa at an embassy, when arriving in Vietnam (visa on arrival) or request an electronic Vietnam visa online.

Here are the essential information on the photos you'll need depending on the application method:

• Visa on arrival or embassy applications: Prepare at least two identical printed photos meeting the specified criteria. It's advisable to carry extra copies in case they're needed during your travel.
• E-Visa application: When applying for a Vietnam e-visa online, you'll need to upload a digital version of your photo. Ensure the file is in .jpg format and doesn't exceed 1024Kb in size. The photo should meet all the requirements mentioned above.

Applying for a Vietnam e-visa is the most convenient option, especially since you can complete the process entirely from home.

Read on to see how to get your Vietnam visa photo online with your phone.

Get a Vietnam visa photo online

If you have a smartphone with a high-quality camera (at least five megapixels), you can take a Vietnam visa photo yourself.

Our tool, the PhotoAiD app for iOS or PhotoAiD for Android, lets you turn a self-portrait into a compliant visa picture within minutes.

1. Take a picture following the guidelines we discussed.
2. Upload it to the app and wait for AI adjustments. Our intelligent algorithms will crop, resize, and erase the background of your photo.
3. Order expert verification. One of our photo experts will check your image against all Vietnam visa photo requirements.
4. Get your photo! Download a digital visa photo (sent to your email) or order printed copies (~2-3 business day delivery).

We guarantee 100% that the picture you prepare using our service will be accepted by the Vietnamese authorities. Should it be rejected, we'll refund 200% of your purchase cost.

Photo for a Vietnamese visa: Mistakes to avoid

Taking a visa photo at home is easy but not error-free. Look at these examples of the most common mistakes people make when creating visa pictures:

• Incorrect background: Ensure the background is plain white or light-colored without any patterns or shadows.
• Poor photo quality: Avoid photos that are blurry, overexposed, or underexposed. The image should be sharp and clear.
• Wearing inappropriate attire: Don't wear uniforms, camouflage clothing, or headwear (unless for religious or medical reasons).
• Obstructed facial features: Ensure your face is fully visible. Hair should be tucked behind your ears, and glasses should not obscure your eyes.

By carefully following these guidelines, you can ensure that your Vietnam visa photo meets the necessary requirements, facilitating a smoother application process.

Sources:

https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/international-travel/International-Travel-Country-Information-Pages/Vietnam.html