Detailed Guide to Applying for a Vietnam E-visa for U.S. Citizens
Since February 2017, the Vietnamese Government has introduced the Vietnam E-visa for U.S. citizens who wish to travel and stay in Vietnam for up to 30 days. This visa scheme helps American travelers save time at immigration, as they do not need to queue at visa counters at airports, land borders, or seaports.
Assistance with obtaining Vietnamese visas for US passport holders, assistance with urgent visa applications for US passport holders.
Required Documents for Vietnam E-visa Application (U.S. Citizens)
Documents to upload during application:
- A scanned copy of the passport information page (PDF format)
- A recent passport-sized photo (4×6 cm)
Documents to present upon arrival:
- A printed copy of the approved Vietnam E-visa
- A passport with at least 2 blank pages for entry and exit stamps
Important Notes
- Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months from your intended entry date
- The photo must be recent and meet requirements (4×6 cm, JPG or PNG format)
How to Apply for a Vietnam E-visa from the USA
U.S. citizens can apply for an E-visa by following these steps:
Step 1:
Upload your passport data page and portrait photo on the official E-visa website, then fill in all required personal details.
Step 2:
Pay the E-visa fee using a valid credit card and receive a payment confirmation.
Step 3:
After 3 working days, visit the “E-visa search” section, enter your registration code, date of birth, and email to download your E-visa.
Vietnam E-visa Fees for U.S. Citizens
- E-visa fee: $25 USD
- Payment method: Online during application
- Bank charges (~$1 USD) are not included
👉 No additional fees are required upon arrival.
Processing Time
- Standard processing time: 3 working days
- Recommended application time: At least 2 weeks before departure
How to Check Your E-visa Status
- Visit the official Vietnam E-visa website
- Enter:
- Registration code
- Date of birth
👉 If approved, you can download or print your E-visa.
Entry Points Accepting Vietnam E-visa for U.S. Citizens
Currently, Vietnam E-visas are accepted at:
International Airports:
- Tan Son Nhat (Ho Chi Minh City)
- Noi Bai (Hanoi)
- Da Nang
- Cam Ranh (Khanh Hoa)
- Can Tho
- Phu Bai (Hue)
- Phu Quoc
- Cat Bi (Hai Phong)
Land Border Gates:
Nam Can, Song Tien, Tinh Bien, Xa Mat, Mong Cai, Moc Bai, Lao Bao, Ha Tien, Huu Nghi, Cau Treo, Cha Lo, Bo Y, Lao Cai, La Lay, Na Meo, Tay Trang
Seaports:
Ho Chi Minh City, Quy Nhon, Nha Trang, Hai Phong, Hon Gai, Da Nang, Vung Tau, Chan May, Duong Dong
Common Issues When Applying for an E-visa
- Payment gateway may not accept all cards (e.g., American Express)
- No confirmation email at each step
- No notification when the visa is approved
👉 Therefore, you should:
- Save your registration code
- Actively check your visa status
Applying Through a Visa Service Agency
Although U.S. citizens can apply independently, many face difficulties such as:
- Complicated website interface
- System errors requiring re-submission
- Lack of direct support
👉 Using a visa agency can help you:
- Receive step-by-step guidance
- Avoid mistakes
- Ensure timely processing
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
How long is a Vietnam E-visa valid?
- Up to 30 days
- Extendable in some cases
How long does it take to get an E-visa?
- 10–15 minutes to complete the application
- 3 working days for processing
What should I do after receiving my E-visa?
- Carefully check all details (name, passport number, date of birth, etc.)
- Print at least 2 copies
- Bring them when entering Vietnam
Do I need to queue at the Visa on Arrival counter?
👉 No. You can go straight to the immigration checkpoint.
Can I apply while traveling or staying in another country?
👉 Yes. You can apply online from anywhere.
What if my travel date changes?
👉 You do not need to reapply if your entry date is still within the visa validity. However, you must leave Vietnam before the visa expires.
Key E-visa Information for U.S. Citizens (Updated)
- Validity: Up to 90 days
- Entries: Single or multiple
- Cost: $25 (single entry) / $50 (multiple entry)
- Processing time: 3–5 working days
- Requirements: Passport valid for at least 6 months, 4×6 cm photo, passport data page scan
Step-by-Step Application Summary
- Access the official Vietnam E-visa website
- Fill out the application form
- Upload required documents
- Pay the visa fee (non-refundable)
- Save your registration code
- Download and print your E-visa after approval
Important Tips
- Enter Vietnam only through approved checkpoints
- Ensure all information matches your passport exactly
- Use urgent processing services if needed (1–4 working days)
Conclusion
The Vietnam E-visa is a fast, convenient, and cost-effective solution for U.S. citizens traveling to Vietnam. With just a few simple steps, you can complete your visa process and be ready to explore Vietnam without hassle.
To avoid delays or errors, make sure to prepare your documents carefully and apply in advance.