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Vietnam Visa Requirement for citizens of United States

Do United States passport holders need Visa to Vietnam?

Citizens of the United States need a visa to enter Vietnam, but the process is straightforward with multiple options.

Requirements on how to apply for a Vietnam visa

Here’s a detailed guide on Vietnam visa requirements for U.S. passport holders:

Option 1: E-Visa (Electronic Visa) – Recommended

  • Validity: 90 days (single-entry or multiple-entry) – New rule since August 2023
  • Processing Time: 4-6 working days
  • Cost: USD 25 for single-entry | USD 50 USD for multiple-entry
  • Where to Apply: https://evisa.gov.vn or https://vietnamvisa.org.vn/apply-visa/
  • Requirements:
    + Passport valid for at least 6 months starting from your date of arrival in Vietnam and must contain at least 2 blank pages for visa sticker and immigration stamp;
    + Digital Portrait photo taken in the last 6 months (4x6cm size, colored photo, white background, straight looking without glasses);
    + Digital Passport scan photo information page (full and clear);
    + Entry & exit dates must be fixed;
    + Contact infomation;
    + Occupation;
    + Information about the trip;

Option 2: Visa on Arrival (VOA) – For Air Travel Only

  • Validity: 30 days (single/multiple entry) or longer
  • Processing Time: 1-2 working days (for approval letter)
  • Cost:
    + Approval Letter Fee: ~USD 10-25 (paid online)
    + Stamping Fee: USD 25 (single) / USD 50 (multiple) – paid in cash at airport
  • How to Apply:
    1. Get an approval letter from a Vietnam visa agency.
    2. Fly to Vietnam, present the letter + 2 passport photos + stamping fee.
  • Airports Allowed: works at all 8 international airports of Vietnam
    1. Noi Bai International Airport (HAN) – Hanoi (Northern Vietnam)
    2. Cat Bi International Airport (HPH) – Hai Phong (Northern Vietnam)
    3. Da Nang International Airport (DAD) – Da Nang (Central Vietnam)
    4. Cam Ranh International Airport (CXR) – Nha Trang (South-Central Coast)
    5. Tan Son Nhat International Airport (SGN) – Ho Chi Minh City (Southern Vietnam)
    6. Phu Quoc International Airport (PQC) – Phu Quoc Island
    7. Lien Khuong International Airport (DLI) – Da Lat
    8. Can Tho International Airport (VCA) – Can Tho (Mekong Delta area)

Option 3: Apply at Vietnam Embassy/Consulate (Pre-Approved Visa)

  • Best for: Those who want a visa full before departure
  • Processing Time: 3-5 business days
  • Cost: ~USD 80-150 (depends on visa type)
  • Requirements:
    + Completed application form;
    + Passport valid for at least 6 months starting from your date of arrival in Vietnam and must contain at least 2 blank pages for visa sticker and immigration stamp;
    + 2 passport photos taken in the last 6 months (4x6cm size, colored photo, white background, straight looking without glasses);
    + Visa fee (varies by consulate);

Vietnam Visa Exemption for U.S. Citizens?

❌ No, U.S. passport holders without Vietnam visa exemption. US passport holders must obtain a visa before entering Vietnam (except Phu Quoc Island, which allows visa-free entry for 30 days if arriving in person).


Which Visa Should You Choose?

Method Best For Processing Time Cost
E-Visa Short trips (tourism/business) 4-6 days ~USD 25-50
Visa on Arrival Flights to Vietnam 1-2 days (approval) + stamping fee ~USD 35-75
Embassy Visa Long-term stays, work visas 3-5 days ~USD 80-150

Important Notes

  • E-Visa is the easiest & cheapest option (validity up to 90-day ).
  • Visa on Arrival requires pre-approval (only for air travel).
  • No visa needed for Phu Quoc Island (15-day stay) if flying directly.
  • Overstaying results in fines (~USD 10-50/day).