Table of Contents
Guidance on recognizing fraudulent visa websites to prevent unauthorized fees and data theft. Learn how to verify legitimate application channels.
You can Submit an eVisa application here. Additionally, review the Vietnam Visa Requirements and eVisa Processing Times.
The Issue of Fraudulent Visa Websites
Numerous fraudulent websites advertise Vietnam visa services. These platforms are designed to mimic official government portals and frequently appear in search engine results through paid advertisements.
The consequences of using these websites include paying exorbitant fees (often exceeding $100 for a standard visa) and the unauthorized collection of personal and passport data. In some cases, applicants pay for a visa that is never processed, leading to boarding denials at the airport.
Identifying Warning Signs
Applicants should monitor for the following indicators of fraudulent activity:
- Charging fees significantly higher than the standard government rate ($25 for a single-entry eVisa, $50 for a multiple-entry eVisa).
- Utilizing domain names that imitate official portals but lack government accreditation.
- Claiming to be the official government site without verifiable credentials.
- Displaying aggressive urgency tactics (e.g., "Apply in the next 10 minutes").
- Requesting irrelevant information, such as bank account credentials or social security numbers.
- Operating without standard security certificates (absence of a padlock icon in the browser address bar).
The sole official portal for government-issued eVisas is the National Web Portal on Immigration. Any alternative website claiming to be the official government portal should be treated with caution.
Fee Structure Comparison
The following table outlines standard visa fees compared to those typically charged by fraudulent sites:
| Service Type | Expected Cost | Warning Sign If Over |
|---|---|---|
| Official Government Portal (National Web Portal on Immigration) | $25 single-entry / $50 multiple-entry | N/A — official pricing |
| Authorized Service Providers | Standard government fee + defined service fee | Disproportionately high fees |
| Fraudulent / Unauthorized Sites | $100-$250+ | Unexplained exorbitant charges |
Authorized Application Channels
To ensure data security and proper processing, applications should be submitted through verified channels:
- The official government portal: National Web Portal on Immigration.
- Authorized service providers with verifiable credentials (such as entryvietnam.com).
- A Vietnamese embassy or consulate in the applicant's jurisdiction.
Applicants should avoid utilizing unsolicited links received via email or unverified search engine advertisements.
Actions to Take If Fraud Is Suspected
If an applicant suspects they have submitted payment to a fraudulent website:
- Contact the issuing bank immediately to dispute the transaction and secure the account.
- Submit a report to the relevant national consumer protection agency or cybercrime unit.
- Reapply through the official National Web Portal on Immigration or a trusted provider.
- Monitor passport information for unauthorized use and report any concerns to the issuing embassy.