Vietnam visa for U.S. Citizens (Americans)

Two primary visa options are an e-visa (electronic visa) and a Visa on Arrival (VOA).

An E-visa is a convenient online option for short stays of up to 90 days. You can apply for an E-visa before your trip and receive it electronically, eliminating the need for additional paperwork upon arrival. The application process can be completed entirely online and requires you to provide basic information such as your passport details, travel itinerary, and purpose of travel. 

There are two types of Vietnam E-visa available:((Vietnam. (2022, July 6). Vietnamese Visas and Entry/Exit. U.S. Embassy & Consulate in Vietnam. <https://vn.usembassy.gov/vietnamese-visas-and-entry-exit/>))

1. Single Entry: valid for 30 days from the date of entry.
2. Multiple Entry: Valid for 90 days from the date of issuance.

• The processing time is five business days.
• After receiving the electronic visa document, you can print it out and bring it to Vietnam.
• Remember that an E-visa is only valid for a single entry and cannot be extended.

Remember that Vietnam e-Visa can only be used at certain ports of entry:

Alternatively, you can obtain a visa with a Visa on Arrival (VOA) upon arrival at specific airports in Vietnam. However, pre-approval from authorized agencies is required beforehand. The VOA process involves getting a visa approval letter from the Vietnamese Immigration Department through a travel agency or visa agent before arriving in Vietnam. 

Once you arrive at the airport, you will need to present the following:

• Valid Passport.
• Visa approval letter.
• Two (2) passport-sized photos.
• Cash to pay the visa stamping fee.

The VOA option is typically faster and more flexible than the E-visa, as it allows you to stay in Vietnam for up to 30 days and extend for another 30 days while you are already in the country. However, remember that the VOA option is only available at certain airports in Vietnam, such as:

• Da Nang International Airport (DAD)
• Cam Ranh International Airport (NHA)
• Phu Quoc International Airport (PQC)
• Can Tho International Airport (VCA)
• Noi Bai International Airport (HAN)
• Tan Son Nhat Internationa Airport (SGN)

At Visas for Future, obtaining Vietnam E-Visa is easier and more convenient. You can access and complete the application form anywhere with an internet connection, and you will receive your e-visa in just five (5) days after submitting your application. By choosing Visas for Future, you will obtain your visa in record time and contribute positively to our planet’s environment and future.

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What We’re Offering

If you are a U.S. citizen and want to travel to Vietnam, you need a Vietnam E-Visa. Vietnam E-Visa allows travelers to enter the country for tourism, business, or transit purposes without visiting an embassy or consulate in person. Our processing service will mail you your Vietnam eVisa within five business days.

• 90 days duration.((Vietnam, U. S. M. (2022, July 6). Vietnamese Visas and Entry/Exit. U.S. Embassy & Consulate in Vietnam. <https://vn.usembassy.gov/vietnamese-visas-and-entry-exit/>))
• $90.14 for multiple-entry.
• $84.14 fee for single-entry.

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Vietnam Visa Required Documents for U.S. Citizens

E-Visa:((Vietnam, U. S. M. (2022, July 6). Vietnamese Visas and Entry/Exit. U.S. Embassy & Consulate in Vietnam. Retrieved March 6, 2024. <https://vn.usembassy.gov/vietnamese-visas-and-entry-exit/>))

• Passport bio page: clear scan of your passport biographical page.
• Portrait photo: Digital passport photo size.
  • Size: 2 x 2 inches or 4 x 6 cm.

Visa on Arrival (VOA)

Before arrival

• Completed visa application form: This form is usually provided by the airline you’re flying with or can be downloaded from the website of the authorized agency assisting you with the pre-approval. Fill it out accurately and completely.
• Passport: Your valid passport must have at least six months remaining validity from your intended arrival in Vietnam and have at least two blank pages for the visa stamp.
• Passport-sized photos: Two recent passport-sized photos meet the specific size requirements.
• VOA pre-approval letter: This is the crucial document obtained from a licensed Vietnamese agency or travel company after you submit your application and any required fees.

Upon arrival

• Completed visa application form (duplicate): In some cases, you may be required to fill out another copy of the application form upon arrival.
• Original VOA pre-approval letter: The one you received from the agency.
• Two passport-sized photos: If you still need to submit with the pre-approval application.
• Cash for the visa fee.

Different types of Vietnam visas available for U.S. citizens

There are two main types of visas available for U.S. citizens traveling to Vietnam:

• E-visa (electronic visa): Vietnam e-visa allows travelers to enter Vietnam for tourism, business, or transit purposes without visiting an embassy or consulate. It is a digital visa that can be applied for online.

• Visa on Arrival (VOA): This option allows you to obtain a visa upon arrival at specific Vietnamese airports. However, you must apply for pre-approval beforehand through authorized agencies or travel companies. VOAs are typically valid for 30 days with a single entry.

Process of applying for a Vietnam visa

E-Visa

Step 1: Visit Visas for Future and click Get Vietnam Evisa'”.

Step 2: Fill out the order form by providing your Name, Email, Nationality, and Phone number.

Step 3: Pay the visa fee. You can pay the visa fee via:

• Credit card
• Debit card
• PayPal

Step 4: Answer the intake form correctly

Step 5: Upload the scanned copies of the the following:

• Passport bio page
• A recent passport-size photo (2×2 inches or 4×6 cm) taken within the last six months
• Proof of accommodation

Step 6: Review and submit your application.

Step 7: Wait for your Vietnam e-visa to be sent to your mailbox within five (5) working days.

Visa on Arrival (VAO)

Before your trip

1. Research and choose a licensed Vietnamese agency or travel company: Look for reputable agencies authorized to handle VOA pre-approval.
2. Contact the chosen agency: Inquire about their VOA pre-approval service and fees. They might require you to submit a scanned copy of your passport bio page, travel information, and passport-sized photos (depending on the agency’s process).
3. Complete the application process and pay the agency fees: This might involve filling out an online form or sending them the required documents. Ensure all information is accurate and matches your passport details.
4. Receive the VOA pre-approval letter: Once your application is processed and approved, the agency will send you a confirmation email with a pre-approval letter attachment. Print this letter for your travel documents.

Upon arrival in Vietnam

5. Locate the VOA counter: Look for the designated “Visa Upon Arrival” counter at the airport you arrive at.
6. Present required documents: Hand over your passport, the original VOA pre-approval letter, a completed visa application form (if required), two passport-sized photos (if not already submitted), and the cash payment for the visa fee (amount may vary depending on the agency and processing time).
7. Wait for visa processing: An immigration officer will review your documents and process your visa. Depending on the queue length, this may take 30-45 minutes.
8. Collect your passport with the visa stamp: Once approved, you’ll receive your passport stamped with the VOA visa.

Cost and processing time of Vietnam visa for U.S. Citizen

Type of Visa	Cost	Processing time:
E-Visa	It costs  $84.14 (including Government Fee)	After submitting your application, you will receive a Vietnam e-visa within five (5) working days.
Visa on Arrival (VAO)	Agency Fee: It typically ranges from $20 to $50 for U.S. citizens. Visa fee: $25 For a single entry visa. $50 For a multiple-entry visa.	This also varies based on the agency and their chosen processing method. It can range from 24 hours to several business days. The visa processing at the airport counter typically takes 30-45 minutes, depending on the queue length.

Duration and Validity of Vietnam Visa for U.S. Citizens

E-Visa

• Validity: 90 days from the date of issuance (the date you receive the approval email).
• Duration of Stay: Up to 90 days from the day after you enter Vietnam.((Vietnam, U. S. M. (2022, July 6). Vietnamese Visas and Entry/Exit. U.S. Embassy & Consulate in Vietnam. Retrieved March 6, 2024. <https://vn.usembassy.gov/vietnamese-visas-and-entry-exit/>))

Additional points to remember:

• E-visas are issued with either single-entry or multiple-entry options.
  • A single-entry E-visa allows you to enter Vietnam only once during its validity period of 30 days.
  • A multiple-entry E-visa will enable you to enter and exit Vietnam multiple times within the 90-day validity period.

Visas on arrival (VOA)

Duration of Stay

• 30 days. This is the maximum duration you can stay in Vietnam on a VOA, regardless of whether you obtain a single or multiple-entry visa.

Validity

• Single Entry: This visa is valid for 30 days from the date of your entry into Vietnam. Once you leave the country, the visa becomes invalid, and you’ll need to obtain a new one if you wish to re-enter.
• Multiple Entry: This is valid for 30 days from your first entry into Vietnam. However, the total accumulated stay within the 30-day validity period can be at most 30 days.

Things to remember when traveling to Vietnam as a US citizen

Here are some things to remember when traveling to Vietnam as a U.S. citizen:

1. Visa Requirements
   • Ensure you have the appropriate visa for your stay. U.S. citizens can typically obtain an E-visa online or a Visa on Arrival (VOA) with pre-approval.
2. Currency Exchange
   • The Vietnamese Dong (VND) is the official currency in Vietnam. While credit cards are becoming more widely accepted, especially in larger cities, carrying cash for smaller purchases is advisable in rural areas. Exchange your USD for VND at reputable money changers or banks.
3. Weather and Clothing
   • Vietnam has a diverse climate, so pack accordingly for travel dates and destinations. It’s generally hot and humid year-round, with the south being warmer than the north. Pack breathable clothing, comfortable shoes, and a hat for sun protection. Pack rain gear and water-resistant shoes during the rainy season (May to November).
4. Culture and Customs
   • Be respectful of Vietnamese culture and customs. Dress modestly when visiting religious sites, and remove your shoes before entering temples or pagodas. It’s customary to greet elders first and use respectful greetings like “Chào ông/bà” (Hello sir/madam).
5. Traffic and Transportation
   • Traffic in Vietnam can be chaotic, especially in major cities like Ho Chi Minh City and Hanoi. Taxis, motorbikes, and xe om (motorbike taxis) are standard modes of transportation. Be cautious when crossing streets and exercise extra vigilance, especially if you need to become more familiar with the traffic patterns.
6. Food and Safety
   • Vietnamese cuisine is known for its fresh ingredients and flavorful dishes. However, be mindful of street food if you have a sensitive stomach. Opt for food stalls with good hygiene practices and crowds, and choose well-cooked dishes.

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Frequently Asked Questions

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Cite this article

MLA Style

Gajes, Apple. "Vietnam visa for U.S. Citizens (Americans)." Visas For Future, https://www.visasforfuture.com/vietnam-visa-for-u-s-citizens-americans/. Accessed on 10 March 2024.

Chicago Style

Gajes, Apple. "Vietnam visa for U.S. Citizens (Americans)." Visas For Future. March 10, 2024. https://www.visasforfuture.com/vietnam-visa-for-u-s-citizens-americans/.