YVO4:Ln(3+) (Ln(3+) = Dy3+, Eu3+) nanoparticles show red shift in V-O charge transfer (CT) with increase in heat treatment due to increase in covalent bond interaction. Luminescence intensity of electric dipole transition is dominating over magnetic dipole transition indicating the asymmetric environment of Ln(3+) ion. Lifetimes for F-4(9/2) (Dy3+) and D-5(0) (Eu3+) levels increase with heat treatment from 500 to 900 degrees C due to extent of reduction in non-radiative process arising from surface of particles, and similar trend is found in quantum yield study. Monoexponential and biexponential decay processes have been discussed on basis of cross-relaxation process as well as surface effect. (C) 2009 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.