Vietnam tourist visa for US citizens is a mandatory step for American travelers. Whether you’re exploring ancient temples or vibrant cities, navigating the application process is essential for a smooth entry. This guide simplifies the costs and steps required to obtain your visa, ensuring your Vietnamese adventure starts without a hitch.
Do US Citizens Need a Visa for Vietnam?
While Vietnam warmly welcomes visitors, obtaining a Vietnam tourist visa for US citizens is a mandatory requirement for entry. Every traveler must secure a Vietnam visa for US citizens before arrival, as there are no exemptions for passport holders. Whether you’re staying for a week or a month, ensuring you have the correct Vietnam visa for American travelers is the first essential step in planning your journey.
How Many Types of Vietnam Visas are Available for US Citizens?
US citizens have two main options for securing a Vietnam tourist visa:
- Visa On Arrival (VOA): While a Vietnam tourist visa for US citizens is mandatory, the process is straightforward. Travelers often choose the E-visa for its simplicity. However, the Vietnam visa for US citizens can also be obtained via “Visa on Arrival” (VOA). This Vietnam visa for American travelers allows you to collect your permit at the airport after securing a pre-arranged Approval Letter through a licensed agency. It’s a flexible backup for those needing last-minute travel authorization.
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Vietnam eVisa: The Vietnam tourist visa for US citizens is most easily obtained through the electronic visa (eVisa) system. This streamlined online process allows travelers to secure a Vietnam visa for US citizens well in advance, bypassing the need for physical embassy visits or long airport queues. As the preferred Vietnam visa for American travelers, the eVisa covers stays of up to 90 days, offering a convenient, paperless solution for your upcoming journey.
Can US (American) Citizens Apply for Vietnam eVisa?
Applying for a Vietnam tourist visa for US citizens is now a fully digital experience. The official Vietnam visa for US citizens (the eVisa) is the most efficient choice, allowing you to bypass the older “Visa on Arrival” paperwork.
Under the current 2026 guidelines, a Vietnam visa for American citizens offers:
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Stay Duration: Up to 90 days.
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Entries: You can choose between Single or Multiple Entry (perfect if you plan to hop over to Cambodia or Thailand and return).
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Processing Fee: Generally $25 USD for single entry and $50 USD for multiple entry.
What are Requirements to Get Vietnam eVisa for US Citizens?
To obtain a Vietnam tourist visa for US citizens, you must complete the application on the official government portal. This Vietnam visa for US citizens is the standard requirement for 2026. To ensure a successful Vietnam visa for American travelers, follow these steps:
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Valid Passport: Must have 6 months’ validity beyond your arrival date and at least two blank pages.
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Digital Photo: A recent 4×6 cm photo with a white background and no glasses.
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Application: Submit your itinerary and details via the official eVisa portal.
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Payment: Pay the non-refundable fee ($25 for single entry; $50 for multiple entry) using a credit or debit card.
What are Vietnam eVisa Cost and Processing Time for US Citizens?
The cost for a Vietnam visa for US citizens depends on your travel plans. In 2026, the official government fees for the eVisa are fixed, but processing times can vary based on demand.
Vietnam Tourist Visa for US Citizens: Fees & Timing
| Visa Type | Government Fee | Official Processing Time |
| Single Entry | $25 USD | 3–5 Business Days |
| Multiple Entry | $50 USD | 4–7 Business Days |
Important Note: These fees are non-refundable, even if your application is denied. While the “official” time for a Vietnam visa for American travelers is 3 business days, it often takes longer during peak seasons (November–April) or around the Tet Lunar New Year.
How to Get Vietnam eVisa for US Citizens?
Getting a Vietnam tourist visa for US citizens is a simple online process. As of 2026, the eVisa is the standard for most travelers, allowing for stays of up to 90 days.
Step-by-Step Guide to the Vietnam eVisa
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Access the Portal: Visit the official Vietnam eVisa website.
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Start Application: Click on “E-visa issuance” and then select “For Outside Vietnam Foreigners.”
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Upload Media: You will need a digital 4×6 cm portrait (white background, no glasses) and a clear scan of your passport’s bio page.
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Enter Details: Complete the form with your travel dates and intended entry/exit points (e.g., Noi Bai or Tan Son Nhat airport).
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Pay the Fee: The Vietnam visa for US citizens costs $25 for single entry or $50 for multiple entries.
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Track & Print: Save your registration code. After 3–5 business days, return to the site to search for your result. Once approved, print your eVisa for immigration.
Can I Enter Vietnam with my eVisa at any Point of Entry?
Before you travel, remember that a Vietnam tourist visa for US citizens is only valid at specific entry points. To ensure your Vietnam visa for US citizens works upon arrival, verify that your chosen airport, land border, or seaport is on the official government list. Confirming your entry gate is a vital step for every Vietnam visa for American traveler to avoid any unexpected issues at the border!
Do I Have to Enter Vietnam on the Exact Date Specified in my eVisa Letter?
When applying for a Vietnam tourist visa for US citizens, the entry date on your approval letter is your “start date.” You cannot enter before this date, but you can enter any time after it, provided you leave before the visa expires. Since a Vietnam visa for US citizens now offers up to 90 days of stay, most travelers set their start date a day early for “wiggle room.” This ensures every Vietnam visa for American traveler has a stress-free arrival.
Tips for Smooth and Faster Processing of Vietnam Visa for US Citizens
To secure your Vietnam tourist visa for US citizens without a hitch, planning is key. While the online process is generally efficient, follow these expert tips to ensure your Vietnam visa for US citizens is approved on time:
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Apply Well in Advance: Don’t wait until the last minute. While eVisas typically take 3–5 business days, high demand or public holidays can cause delays. Aim to submit your application at least two weeks before your departure.
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Proofread Like a Hawk: Double-check every detail! Typos in your passport number or name spelling can lead to rejection or entry denial. Ensure your information matches your passport exactly for a valid Vietnam visa for American travelers.
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Use a Stable Connection: Technical glitches can disrupt your payment or submission. Ensure you have a reliable internet connection before starting.
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Professional Assistance: If the process feels overwhelming, reputable agencies can act as your “knight in shining armor,” handling the paperwork and expediting the process for a stress-free experience.
If you’re feeling overwhelmed by the how to get vietnam tourist visa process, reputable travel agencies can be your knight in shining armor.
Recommend places to visit in Vietnam for US citizens
Vietnam is a sprawling playground of history, nature, and caffeine. For US citizens, the most popular route typically flows from North to South (or vice versa), hitting these iconic spots:
1. The North: Culture & Clouds
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Hanoi: The capital is a must. Wander the Old Quarter, visit the Temple of Literature, and don’t miss Egg Coffee (Cà Phê Trứng).
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Ha Long Bay / Lan Ha Bay: Take an overnight cruise. Pro-tip: Lan Ha Bay is often less crowded but just as stunning.
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Sapa: Famous for its terraced rice fields. It’s the best place for trekking and staying in a local homestay with ethnic minority families.
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Ninh Binh: Known as “Ha Long Bay on land.” Take a small rowboat through the caves of Trang An or Tam Coc.
2. The Central Coast: History & Beaches
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Hoi An: This ancient town is a favorite for Americans. It’s famous for custom-made suits/dresses, glowing lanterns at night, and incredible street food like Cao Lầu.
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Da Nang: A modern city with beautiful beaches like My Khe. You can visit the Golden Bridge (the one held by giant stone hands) at Ba Na Hills.
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Hue: The former imperial capital. Explore the Imperial City (Citadel) and the elaborate royal tombs of past emperors.
3. The South: Energy & History
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Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon): A high-energy metropolis. Essential stops for US citizens include the War Remnants Museum and the Independence Palace.
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Cu Chi Tunnels: Located about an hour from Saigon, this vast underground network offers a deep dive into Vietnam War history.
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Mekong Delta: Take a boat trip to see floating markets and lush fruit orchards.
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Phu Quoc Island: If you want to end your trip with white sand beaches and luxury resorts, this is the place.
Visa application service of Vietnam Tour 247
Hey there, globetrotter! Picture this: Vietnam’s vibrant energy washes over you – the cacophony of bustling markets, the serenity of Ha Long Bay shimmering in the sun, ancient temples whispering tales of forgotten empires. Sounds pretty darn incredible, right? But hold on a sec, Indiana Jones wannabe – before you book those flights and pack your insatiable bánh mì cravings, there’s that pesky detail: the Vietnam tourist visa for US citizens.
Ugh, I know. Visa applications can feel like deciphering hieroglyphics on a dusty scroll, and who wants that stress hanging over their dream vacation? That’s where Vietnam Tour 247 swoops in – your visa guardian angels specializing in all things Vietnamese travel!
Think of us as your personal travel fairy godmother (or godfather, hey, no judgment here!). Here’s how Vietnam Tour 247 can be your knight in shining armor for your Vietnam tourist visa for US citizens:
- Visa Application Made Easy: Forget wrestling with government websites that look like they were coded by bored sphinx enthusiasts. We’ll walk you through the entire application process step-by-step, making sure everything is filled out correctly. No more visa application anxiety – we’ll be your personal visa guru, explaining any confusing sections and ensuring a smooth journey through the online forms.
- Documentation Done Right: Lost passport photo causing a meltdown? Don’t sweat it! We’ll help you gather all the necessary documents for your Vietnam tourist visa for US citizens, including your passport, digital photo, and any other supporting documents required by Vietnamese immigration. We’ll double-check everything to avoid any last-minute airport scrambles (because seriously, who needs that kind of stress?).
- Error-Free Application: Typos and mistakes can delay your visa, or worse, get it rejected. Not on our watch! Our team of eagle-eyed visa experts will meticulously review your application before submission, catching any errors and ensuring it’s squeaky clean.
- Communication Bridge: Sometimes, things don’t go exactly according to plan. If any questions or clarifications arise during the Vietnam tourist visa for US citizens process, we’ll act as your bridge to Vietnamese authorities. No need to worry about language barriers or bureaucratic hurdles – we’ll handle it all for a smooth resolution (think of us as your personal Vietnamese embassy translator superhero!).
- Expedited Processing (if available): Running a bit short on time? No worries! We offer expedited processing options (for an additional fee) to get your Vietnam tourist visa for US citizens fast. Don’t let a tight schedule derail your dream trip – get that visa in a flash and get ready to explore!
But wait, there’s more! Vietnam Tour 247 goes beyond just visas. We can craft a personalized itinerary packed with unforgettable experiences, expert guides, and everything you need to make your Vietnamese adventure truly magical.
With this comprehensive guide and a little preparation, obtaining your Vietnam tourist visa for US citizens should be a breeze. Now you can pack your bags, embrace the adventure, and get ready to experience the captivating beauty and vibrant culture of Vietnam! Don’t forget your close friend on the journey – Vietnam Tour 247, too!
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