Vietnam landscape
U.S. Citizens Guide

Complete Vietnam Visa Guide

Everything American travelers need to know about obtaining a Vietnam visa in 2026. From eVisa applications to entry requirements and processing times.

Visa Required

Yes (eVisa)

Processing Time

3-5 days

Max Stay

90 days

Cost

$25-$50

Types of Vietnam Visas

Choose the right visa type based on your travel purpose

Tourist eVisa

Perfect for leisure travel, sightseeing, and visiting friends/family. The most common option for American tourists.

Duration

Up to 90 days

Cost

$25 (single) / $50 (multi-entry)

Processing

3-5 business days

Business Visa

Required for business meetings, conferences, or professional activities. Requires sponsorship from a Vietnamese company.

Duration

1-12 months

Cost

$135-$165

Processing

5-7 business days

Student Visa

For Americans studying at Vietnamese universities or language schools. Requires acceptance letter from institution.

Duration

Duration of study

Cost

Varies

Processing

2-3 weeks

Long-term Visa

For Americans with Vietnamese family members or long-term residence needs. Requires extensive documentation.

Duration

1-5 years

Cost

$200-$400

Processing

2-4 weeks

eVisa Requirements for Americans

What you need to apply for a Vietnam eVisa

Valid US Passport

Required

Must be valid for at least 6 months beyond your planned departure from Vietnam

Passport Photo Page

Required

Clear digital scan or photo of your passport biographical data page

Recent Passport Photo

Required

Digital passport-style photo (white background, no glasses, facing forward)

Payment Method

Required

Valid credit/debit card for visa processing fee payment

Travel Details

Required

Arrival and departure dates, entry point (airport/land border)

Accommodation Proof

Hotel bookings or invitation letter from host (sometimes required)

How to Apply for Vietnam eVisa

Step-by-step application process

1

Visit Official eVisa Portal

Go to the official Vietnam Immigration Department website (evisa.xuatnhapcanh.gov.vn)

2

Complete Application Form

Fill in personal details, passport information, travel dates, and entry/exit points

3

Upload Required Documents

Upload your passport data page scan and digital passport photo

4

Pay Processing Fee

Pay $25 (single-entry) or $50 (multi-entry) via credit/debit card

5

Receive eVisa Approval

Check your email for approval (usually 3-5 business days)

6

Print and Present

Print your eVisa and present it with your passport at Vietnam immigration

Important Tips

  • • Apply at least 2 weeks before your trip
  • • Double-check all information before submitting
  • • Save your application code to track status
  • • Print your eVisa - digital copies are not accepted at immigration

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Don't let these errors delay your trip

Applying too close to departure date (apply at least 2 weeks in advance)

Not printing the eVisa (digital copy on phone is not accepted)

Passport expiring within 6 months of arrival

Incorrect passport number or spelling errors in application

Uploading poor quality photos or scans

Assuming VOA is available without pre-approval

Frequently Asked Questions

Everything you need to know about Vietnam visas

Ready to Visit Vietnam?

Use our Visa Checker to confirm your exact requirements, or start planning your Vietnam adventure with our AI-powered itinerary builder.