What to expect from Vietnam’s urgent e-visa process

When travel plans change at the last minute, time becomes your biggest concern—especially when you need a visa. For travelers heading to Vietnam, the good news is that the country offers urgent e-visa processing options that can get your travel authorization approved in hours, not days. But exactly how long for urgent e-visa approval should you expect? And does it differ for citizens of Ireland or Austria?

In this post, we’ll break down the urgent e-visa timelines, explain the process and walk you through the steps for Irish and Austrian travelers needing fast visa access to Vietnam.

What urgent e-visa approval means?

Vietnam’s e-visa system allows citizens from over 80 countries to apply for a visa entirely online, eliminating the need to visit an embassy or consulate. Normally, this process takes around 3 working days. However, for travelers who need to fly within 24 hours, an urgent e-visa service is available.

Traveler checking email for visa result, illustrating how long for urgent e-visa approval to be granted

The timeframe for how long for urgent e-visa approval can vary based on the provider and the level of urgency you select. In most cases:

• Urgent (same-day) approval takes about 8–24 working hours

• Super urgent or express service can take as little as 4–8 working hours

• Weekend or holiday approvals are possible through some premium agencies, but may take slightly longer or cost more

These services are particularly helpful when you discover your visa need at the last minute or your flight is already booked.

Vietnam visa for Ireland citizens: What to know about urgent processing

If you hold an Irish passport, Vietnam requires a visa for entry. The Vietnam visa for Ireland citizens can be obtained online via the e-visa portal and urgent services are available through reputable agencies.

Irish applicants can benefit from the urgent processing options mentioned earlier. To apply for a fast-tracked e-visa, you’ll need:

• A passport valid for at least 6 months

• A scanned copy of the passport’s bio page

• A digital photo with a white background

• Travel information including entry date, exit date and entry port

• A valid email address and payment method

By submitting this information through an express visa provider, Irish citizens can often receive their e-visa within one working day—or even within hours.

Irish traveler checking processing time on government website, wondering how long for urgent e-visa approval

Vietnam visa for Austrian citizens: Fast-track options explained

Austrian travelers also require a visa to enter Vietnam unless they are visiting for fewer than 15 days and qualify for the short-stay exemption. For longer visits or repeat entries, the Vietnam visa for Austrian citizens must be secured before departure.

Fortunately, urgent e-visa services are available to Austrian citizens through both the official e-visa portal and licensed agencies. The approval timeline depends on your urgency level, but the process is simple and efficient.

Most fast-track e-visa providers offer:

• Same-day approval for applications submitted before 10 a.m. (Vietnam time)

• Next-day approval for later submissions

• Priority support for travelers flying in under 24 hours

As with Irish citizens, Austrian applicants must upload a passport scan and photo, select a valid entry port and ensure all data is accurate to avoid delays.

Austrian citizen reviewing fast-track Vietnam visa options and wondering how long for urgent e-visa approval

Factors that affect urgent e-visa approval time

Several factors influence how long for urgent e-visa approval to be processed. These include:

• Time of submission: Applications made early in the day are more likely to be approved the same day

• Weekends and public holidays: Government offices may not operate, requiring you to choose a provider with weekend processing options

• Accuracy of documents: Incorrect or unclear uploads can delay or cancel your request

• Provider used: Official government websites may not offer urgent options; private agencies usually do—but at a higher cost

To avoid problems, ensure your application is complete and submitted to a trusted visa service provider with a strong track record.

Costs associated with urgent approval

While standard e-visas cost around $25 USD, urgent and express services come at a premium. Expect to pay:

• $50–$80 USD for 24-hour processing

• $100–$150 USD for same-day or 4–8 hour turnaround

• Additional surcharges for weekend, night-time or holiday processing

Although the fee is higher, the convenience of getting your visa in time for departure is often worth the extra cost—especially when flights and accommodations are already booked.

Traveler comparing service fees and asking how long for urgent e-visa approval before booking flight

Final thoughts for travelers in a hurry

Whether you’re an Irish or Austrian passport holder, Vietnam’s e-visa system makes it possible to visit even with limited planning time. Understanding how long for urgent e-visa approval can help you plan your trip with more confidence.

By preparing the right documents and selecting an express service that fits your schedule, you can receive your Vietnam visa in a matter of hours—just in time to pack your bags and explore one of Asia’s most exciting destinations.

>>> You may want to know: Last-minute travel to Vietnam? Here’s what tourists need to know