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American citizens are not visa-free for Vietnam. Here's exactly how to get your Vietnam eVisa — including requirements, costs, and tips specific to US travelers.
Do US Citizens Need a Visa for Vietnam?
Yes. United States citizens are not included in Vietnam's visa-free entry program. All American passport holders must obtain a visa before traveling to Vietnam.
US citizens are eligible for the Vietnam eVisa, which is processed entirely online. Approval typically takes 3-5 working days. For a comprehensive overview of the process, see our US citizen visa requirements page.
US citizens cannot enter Vietnam without a valid visa. It is recommended to apply for the eVisa at least 1-2 weeks before the departure date.
Visa Options for American Travelers
US citizens have two main options for obtaining a Vietnam visa:
| Option | Cost | Processing | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| eVisa (Single Entry) | $25 USD | 3-5 working days | Most US tourists |
| eVisa (Multiple Entry) | $50 USD | 3-5 working days | Multi-country SE Asia trips |
| Embassy Visa | $50-$200+ | 5-10 working days | Long-term stays, business |
For most US tourists, the single-entry eVisa ($25) is sufficient. If the itinerary includes side trips to neighboring countries like Cambodia or Laos, the multiple-entry eVisa ($50) is required.
US Citizen eVisa Requirements
To apply for a Vietnam eVisa, a US citizen requires:
- A US passport valid for at least 6 months from the intended entry date, with at least 2 blank pages.
- A clear, color scan of the passport data page (JPEG/PNG format, under 2MB).
- A recent passport-style portrait photo: 4x6cm, white background, JPEG format, under 2MB. Review the full photo specifications to ensure compliance.
- A valid email address to receive the approved eVisa.
- A credit or debit card for the online fee payment ($25 or $50).
- Planned travel dates and the specific intended entry port (airport, land border, or seaport).
How to Apply: Step-by-Step for Americans
The application process is completed online:
- Visit the National Web Portal on Immigration (evisa.xuatnhapcanh.gov.vn or dichvucong.bocongan.gov.vn).
- Select 'United States' as the nationality.
- Choose single entry ($25) or multiple entry ($50).
- Fill in personal details exactly as they appear in the US passport.
- Upload the passport scan and portrait photo.
- Select the intended entry port. US citizens commonly enter via Tan Son Nhat (HCMC) or Noi Bai (Hanoi). There are 83 accepted entry ports nationwide; see the full list of 83 accepted entry ports.
- Pay the fee via credit or debit card.
- Wait 3-5 working days for processing.
- Download and print the approved eVisa PDF (carrying at least 2 copies is recommended).
Popular Entry Points for US Travelers
Most American travelers enter Vietnam through one of these major international airports:
- Tan Son Nhat International Airport (SGN) — Ho Chi Minh City: The primary gateway in the south, with numerous connecting flights from US cities.
- Noi Bai International Airport (HAN) — Hanoi: The primary gateway in the north.
- Da Nang International Airport (DAD) — Da Nang: Central Vietnam's main airport.
- Cam Ranh International Airport (CXR) — Nha Trang: Serving the south-central coastal region.
Vietnam Airlines operates non-stop flights from San Francisco (SFO) to Ho Chi Minh City (SGN). From other US cities, connections are typically made through Seoul (ICN), Tokyo (NRT/HND), Taipei (TPE), or Singapore (SIN).
Common Destinations in Vietnam
These are the primary destinations frequently visited by US travelers:
- Ho Chi Minh City — Vietnam's largest city, historical sites, Cu Chi Tunnels
- Hanoi — Capital city, Old Quarter, Temple of Literature
- Ha Long Bay — UNESCO World Heritage site, limestone karsts
- Hoi An — Historical town, local tailoring services, historic streets
- Da Nang — Coastal city, Marble Mountains, Ba Na Hills
- Sapa — Mountain trekking routes, rice terraces
- Phu Quoc — Island destination, coastal beaches
Important Tips for American Travelers
Specific advice for US citizens visiting Vietnam:
- Submit the eVisa application at least 2 weeks before departure to accommodate potential processing delays.
- Ensure the US passport has at least 6 months of validity and 2 blank pages.
- Print two physical copies of the eVisa document.
- US dollars may be accepted for certain high-value transactions, but Vietnamese Dong (VND) is required for daily expenses.
- The exchange rate fluctuates around 1 USD = 25,000 VND.
- The eVisa allows a maximum stay of 90 days with no extension possible. See the latest fee and processing details.
- Register with the US Embassy in Hanoi (7 Lang Ha Street, Ba Dinh District, Tel: +84 24 3850 5000) or the US Consulate General in HCMC (4 Le Duan Blvd, District 1, Tel: +84 28 3520 4200) for emergency assistance.
- Secure comprehensive travel insurance, as standard US health insurance does not provide coverage in Vietnam.
Travelers can proceed to apply for the Vietnam eVisa here.