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Name mismatches are the number one reason for Vietnam eVisa rejections and boarding denials. Learn the correct ICAO naming format and what to do if you made a mistake.
Why Name Matching is Critical for Vietnam eVisa
The Vietnam Immigration Department uses a strict automated and manual verification process. Your name on the eVisa MUST match the Machine Readable Zone (MRZ) of your passport exactly. If there is a single character difference, missing middle name, or inverted order, airlines will deny boarding and immigration officers will refuse entry.
If your issued eVisa has an incorrect name, you cannot amend it. You must submit a completely new application and pay the government eVisa fee ($25 for single-entry or $50 for multiple-entry) again.
Understanding the ICAO Naming Standard
Vietnam follows the ICAO (International Civil Aviation Organization) standard for passport names. To find your correct name format, look at the bottom two lines of your passport's photo page (the MRZ). The format usually begins with "P<" followed by your country code, then your SURNAME, two filler characters (<<), and your GIVEN NAMES.
- Look at the MRZ (Machine Readable Zone) at the bottom of your passport.
- Everything before the double arrows (
<<) is your Surname. - Everything after the double arrows (
<<) is your Given Name(s). - Do not include titles like MR, MRS, or DR unless they are in the MRZ.
How to Enter Your Name Correctly
When applying for your Vietnam eVisa via the official National Web Portal on Immigration, you must enter your full name exactly as it appears in the MRZ. Enter your surname, followed by your given names (first and middle names). For example, if your name is John Robert Smith, and your MRZ reads P<GBRSMITH<<JOHN<ROBERT<<<<<<<<<<<<<, you should enter it exactly as it appears in the MRZ, typically as SMITH JOHN ROBERT.
Common Name Format Scenarios
Different passports have different naming conventions. Here is how to handle some of the most common situations when filling out your Vietnam eVisa application.
| Passport Scenario | How to Enter |
|---|---|
| No Surname (e.g., given name only) | Leave surname blank or enter as instructed by the specific form (often repeating the given name if a field is mandatory, but verify first). |
| Multiple Middle Names | Include ALL given names in the exact order they appear in the MRZ. |
| Hyphenated Names | Enter them exactly as they appear in the MRZ (hyphens are usually converted to spaces or < in MRZ). |
| Suffixes (Jr., III) | Include only if they appear in the MRZ line. |
Correcting a Name Mismatch Error
If you have already submitted your application or received your eVisa and notice a name mismatch, you cannot edit the existing application. The National Web Portal on Immigration does not allow amendments after submission. You must immediately apply for a new eVisa with the correct details. Waiting until you arrive at the airport with an incorrect eVisa will result in being denied boarding. Additionally, ensure your passport meets all eVisa requirements (such as 6 months of validity beyond your date of arrival and at least 2 blank pages). For more guidance, read our article on common eVisa mistakes.