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:
- Get an approval letter from a Vietnam visa agency.
- Fly to Vietnam, present the letter + 2 passport photos + stamping fee.
- Airports Allowed: works at all 8 international airports of Vietnam
- Noi Bai International Airport (HAN) – Hanoi (Northern Vietnam)
- Cat Bi International Airport (HPH) – Hai Phong (Northern Vietnam)
- Da Nang International Airport (DAD) – Da Nang (Central Vietnam)
- Cam Ranh International Airport (CXR) – Nha Trang (South-Central Coast)
- Tan Son Nhat International Airport (SGN) – Ho Chi Minh City (Southern Vietnam)
- Phu Quoc International Airport (PQC) – Phu Quoc Island
- Lien Khuong International Airport (DLI) – Da Lat
- 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);
- Where to Apply: List of Embassy/Consulate of Vietnam in United States
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).