What is the correct passport photo for a Vietnam visa application?
Question
I would be grateful for your help. I applied for a visa on 19 July and the same day received a reply saying that I needed to submit a new passport photo because I had attached my passport photo instead. I told them this is incorrect (the attached portrait photo I submitted is in accordance with the requirements). In fact, I’m pretty sure it’s the same photo I used to get my Vietnam visa last year. I have messaged them twice about this but have not received a response.
I am an Australian citizen and have been to Vietnam many times. I’ve never had this problem before.
Answer
To apply for a Vietnam visa, you need to prepare a copy of your passport and a passport-size photo. The portrait photo must satisfy the following requirements:
- The portrait photo must be taken within 6 months, and it is not cropped from the passport images;
- The photo captures your entire face with open eyes and a straight look when you are not wearing glasses or a hat. The photo with a headscarf or hijab is permitted for religious purposes.
- The photo should have a solid white or plain light colour background;
- The portrait photo is taken with your neutral face that shows your normal expression;
- Your portrait photo will not be accepted if it is taken while you are shirtless.
In this case, you are using an old portrait photo that was taken last year, so it will not be approved.