Processing of Vietnam Visas Will Stop for the Lunar New Year in 2026
There will be delays in visa and processing because Vietnam's Immigration Authority and embassies will be closed for Tet from February 14 to February 22, 2026. It is recommended that travelers prepare ahead and apply as soon as possible.
This is something you should schedule around if Vietnam is on your list of places to visit in early 2026.
For Tet, the Lunar New Year, Vietnam's Immigration Authority and embassies will be closed. Visa processing is therefore anticipated to stall or slow down over the Christmas season.
Dates of Vietnam Visa Closure Confirmed
The most recent holiday notice states:
Time frame for closure: February 14–22, 2026
Notices from the embassy state that it will be closed until February 23, 2026.
Following the conclusion of the holiday, services are anticipated to resume.
Since Tet is the largest national holiday in Vietnam, government institutions such as embassies and immigration offices are closed on this day.
Anticipate Delays in Late February
Processing of visas might not resume as usual right once, even when offices reopen.
Here's why. Applications can accumulate if they are submitted right before the holidays. Staff members frequently clear a backlog when services resume. This implies that approvals may take longer than normal during the final week of February.
It's a good idea to factor in extra time if your trip is scheduled for late February or early March.
Who Will Be Impacted?
The effect is applicable to:
Offices of the Vietnam Immigration Authority
Vietnamese consulates and embassies overseas
Processing of visa approval throughout the holiday season
Delays may occur for travelers seeking for eVisas, business visas, or tourist visas.
Similar Chinese Embassy Announcement
It is important to note that the Chinese Embassy has also sent a similar notification, indicating that services would resume on February 24, 2026, following closures for the Spring Festival from February 14 to February 23, 2026.
China's most significant public holiday is the Spring Festival, which coincides with the Lunar New Year. Processing delays result from embassies and consulates around the world usually providing little to no visa services during this time.
Do You Need to Apply Right Away?
The best course of action if you intend to travel to China or Vietnam in February or early March of 2026 is to apply as soon as possible. Don't submit your application too soon before February 14th. During official closure days, even fast-track services could be restricted.
Verify the status of any applications you currently have pending and be ready for any delays.
Last Word
Visa delays are common during Tet, one of the most significant holidays in Vietnam. Although this isn't uncommon, if you're not ready, it could ruin your trip plans.
Don't wait until the last minute to apply for your visa; do so early and allow extra time before your trip. You can avoid having to reschedule flights later by doing a little planning now.
