Vietnam Visa for US Citizens 2025: Complete Guide

Planning a trip to Vietnam? Most travelers will need a visa. The Vietnam travel visa for US citizens is now easier than ever, thanks to the 90-day e-Visa option, available online with single or multiple entries. Visa on arrival and embassy visas remain available too. This guide covers the main visa types, how to apply, and what documents you’ll need for a smooth journey.

Vietnam Visa Requirements for US Citizens

Vietnam’s visa policies are mandatory for U.S. citizens, with no exemptions for tourism or business purposes. Whether you’re visiting for a few days or several weeks, a valid visa is essential to enter the country. Key requirements include:

• U.S. citizens require a visa for all travel purposes, with no exemptions as of 2025.
• Three main visa types are available: e-Visa, VOA, and traditional visa.
• Since August 2023, the e-Visa validity has extended to 90 days with multiple-entry options, reflecting Vietnam’s efforts to boost tourism.

Vietnam E-Visa for Americans: Application Process and Requirements 

The e-Visa is a convenient online option for U.S. citizens, issued by Vietnam’s Immigration Department for tourists or business travelers staying up to 90 days. 

Eligibility and requirements

U.S. citizens must meet specific criteria to qualify for an e-Visa.

• Valid U.S. passport: At least 6 months validity beyond entry date, with one blank page.
• Eligible purposes: Tourism, business, or short-term visits.
• Entry points: Valid at 39 designated checkpoints, including airports, seaports, and land borders.

Application process

Applying for an e-Visa is straightforward and can be done entirely online.

• Visit the official Vietnam Immigration website.
• Complete the application form with accurate personal and travel details.
• Upload a passport-sized photo (4×6 cm, white background) and a scanned passport bio page.
• Pay the non-refundable fee: $25 (single entry) or $50 (multiple entries) via credit card.
• Receive the e-Visa by email within 3–5 business days; rush processing is available for extra fees.
• Print the e-Visa and present it at your designated entry point.

For more practical guidance, visit our blog about the Vietnam e-Visa.

Validity and usage

The e-Visa allows entry through specified checkpoints and supports stays up to 90 days. Travelers must adhere to the approved entry/exit points specified in their application.

Required Documents

• Valid U.S. passport
• Digital passport photo
• Scanned passport bio page
• Travel itinerary (recommended but not always required)

Vietnam Visa on Arrival for US Citizens: Process and Benefits

The VOA is a viable option for U.S. citizens arriving by air, particularly for longer stays or urgent trips. It requires a pre-approval letter and is only available at select international airports like Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, or Da Nang.

Availability and restrictions

VOA is limited to specific entry methods.

• Available only for air arrivals at major Vietnamese airports.
• Not applicable for land or sea entries, unlike the e-Visa.

Application Process

The VOA process involves pre-arrival and airport steps.

• Apply for the pre-approval letter online by submitting your details, choosing a processing speed, and paying a service fee (US$20–50).
• At the airport, present the letter, passport (6+ months validity, 2 blank pages), two passport-sized photos, and a completed entry/exit form.
• Pay the stamping fee in USD cash: $25 (single entry) or $50+ (multiple entries).

Pros and Cons

VOA offers flexibility but has drawbacks.

• Pros: Support stays up to 6 months; suitable for business or multi-entry needs.
• Cons: Requires extra paperwork; involves airport wait times; cash-only payment.

Traditional Vietnam Visa Application for US Citizens 

For long-term stays, multiple entries, or complex business travel, a traditional visa through a Vietnamese embassy or consulate offers security. It’s ideal for travelers needing visas beyond 90 days or pre-arrival certainty.

Applying through a consulate requires careful preparation.

• Submit a completed NA1 form, passport (6+ months validity, 2 blank pages), one passport-size photo, and fees ($80–$150).
• Business visa applicants may need an invitation letter from a Vietnamese organization.
• Processing takes 3–5 working days, with expedited options available.

Vietnam Visa Types and Purposes for US Citizens

Vietnam offers several types of visas tailored to the purpose and duration of your stay. 

• Tourist Visa (DL): Designed for leisure travel, valid for 30–90 days, single or multiple entry.
• Business Visa (DN1/DN2): For meetings, conferences, or partnerships, valid 1–12 months, often requiring a sponsor.
• Transit Visa (TT): For layovers under 24 hours; exemptions may apply based on itinerary.

Tourist and business visas allow multiple entries, valid from 30 days to 1 year. They’re great for frequent trips, though longer stays may need sponsorship. One U.S. family used a multi-entry visa to explore Vietnam and Laos with ease. Check Vietnam Immigration for current rules.

Vietnam Visa Requirements: Documents and Eligibility 

When applying for a Vietnam visa, U.S. citizens must meet specific documentation and eligibility criteria to ensure a smooth application process.

Accurate documentation is crucial to avoid visa delays. U.S. citizens must meet these criteria:

• • Passport: Valid for 6+ months with 2 blank pages.
  • Photo: 4×6 cm, white background, taken within 6 months. A U.S. client we helped corrected a photo error, securing their visa promptly.

• Forms:

• • E-Visa: Online form, optional itinerary.
  • VOA: Entry/exit form at the airport.
  • Traditional Visa: NA1 form, possible invitation letter.
• Supporting documents: Flight bookings, hotel reservations, or financial proof may be requested.

Vietnam Visa Costs and Processing Times for US Citizens 

Visa costs depend on type and urgency. Here’s an overview:

• E-Visa: $25 (single entry), $50 (multiple entries); 3–5 business days.
• VOA: Service fee (varies by agency) + stamping fee ($25 single, $50+ multiple); letter processing takes 2–5 days.
• Traditional Visa: $80–$150; 3–5 days, with express options.

Payments vary: e-Visa and VOA service fees accept credit cards, but VOA stamping requires USD cash. A U.S. couple we assisted secured a rush e-Visa in 24 hours for an urgent trip, thanks to our expertise.

Vietnam Entry Requirements and Practical Travel Tips for US Citizens

Traveling to Vietnam is easy for US citizens, but a bit of preparation goes a long way. Here are key requirements and tips to help ensure a smooth trip.

Visa and passport essentials

Securing the right travel documents is the first step to a stress-free trip. Paying attention to official regulations will save time and avoid complications at the border.

• Passport validity: Your passport must remain valid for at least six months after your planned departure from Vietnam.
• Visa type: US travelers must apply for an e-Visa or visa on arrival in advance through the official government portal.
• Photo requirements: Visa photos must be 4×6 cm, on a white background, and taken within the past six months.
• Accurate information: Ensure that your full name, passport number, travel dates, and entry/exit points exactly match between your visa application and passport.

A careful check of these details will help avoid visa delays or entry denials.

Entry, health, and safety requirements

Vietnam currently has relaxed health entry policies, but basic precautions remain essential for a safe and comfortable visit.

• Vaccinations: As of June 2025, no vaccines are required, but the CDC recommends immunizations against hepatitis A, typhoid, and tetanus, especially for rural destinations.
• Travel insurance: Comprehensive insurance is highly recommended to cover medical emergencies, travel delays, or baggage loss.
• Medications: Bring any personal medications, plus copies of prescriptions, since some Western medicines may not be available outside major cities.

Customs and currency regulations

Understanding Vietnam’s customs rules will help you pass smoothly through entry points and avoid fines or confiscations.

• Declarations: Items such as electronics, professional cameras, or cash exceeding $5,000 USD (or equivalent) must be declared on arrival.
• Prohibited items: Do not bring banned items, including weapons, illegal substances, or certain cultural antiques.
• Currency limits: Declare any currency above the permitted amount to comply with Vietnamese law.

Knowing these regulations in advance ensures your arrival is hassle-free.

Overstay penalties and visa extensions

Respecting Vietnam’s visa terms is crucial to avoid legal trouble or fines. If you need to extend your stay, make arrangements well before your visa expires.

• Overstay penalties: Travelers who overstay may face heavy fines, detention, or future entry bans.
• Extension process: Apply early at local immigration offices if you require a visa extension.
• Document copies: Always carry printed copies of your visa approval or e-Visa, as digital versions may not be accepted at every checkpoint.

Staying informed about these rules will keep your trip stress-free and legally compliant.

FAQ: Common Vietnam Visa Questions for US Citizens 

Do US citizens need a visa for Vietnam?

Yes, U.S. citizens require a visa for tourism, business, or transit, with no exemptions in 2025.

How long does a Vietnam visa take for US citizens?

E-Visa and traditional visas take 3–5 business days; rush processing (1–2 days) is available for urgent trips, as we facilitated for a U.S. couple last month.

What’s the cheapest way to get a Vietnam visa for US citizens?

The e-Visa ($25 single entry) is the most cost-effective, most recommended for its simplicity and affordability.

Can US citizens get a Vietnam visa on arrival?

Yes, with a pre-approval letter, but only for air arrivals. Our visa services streamlined this for a U.S. business group recently.

What are Vietnam visa photo requirements?

Photos must be 4×6 cm, white background, taken within 6 months. We helped a U.S. family correct photo errors to avoid rejection.

Is a multiple-entry Vietnam visa available for Americans?

Yes, e-Visas and traditional visas offer multiple entries for up to 90 days or 1 year, ideal for multi-country trips.

Vietnam is a captivating destination, but U.S. citizens need a valid visa to explore it. In 2025, optionsvisa include e-Visas, visa on arrival, and traditional visas. Early planning and proper documents are key, check the Vietnam Immigration Portal for up-to-date requirements and consider travel insurance. A U.S. family recently enjoyed a seamless trip thanks to early prep and the right support. Ready to discover Vietnam? Start your stress-free journey with expert visa guidance today.