Yes — U.S. citizens need a visa for Vietnam, and the easiest option is the eVisa: $25 for single entry or $50 for multiple entry, valid for stays up to 90 days. Apply on the official evisa.gov.vn portal; processing takes about 3 working days. Print the approval — you'll show it at check-in and immigration.
Do Americans need a visa for Vietnam?
Yes — Vietnam is one of the few Southeast Asian destinations where Americans can't just show up. But the eVisa makes it painless: fully online, no embassy visit, valid at international airports, land crossings, and seaports.
Vietnam eVisa quick facts
| Detail | Value |
|---|---|
| Cost | $25 single-entry / $50 multiple-entry |
| Max stay | 90 days |
| Processing | ~3 working days |
| Official site | evisa.gov.vn |
| Format | PDF — print it (some airports want paper) |
How to apply — official portal only
- Go to evisa.gov.vn — dozens of look-alike sites overcharge for the same visa
- Upload your passport data page and a passport-style photo (white background, no glasses — see our photo guide)
- Fill travel details including your exact entry port — the eVisa is port-specific
- Pay $25/$50 — check status with your registration code in ~3 days
- Print the eVisa PDF; present it at check-in and immigration
Apply online — skip the paperwork
iVisa handles visa and travel authorization applications online — document review, government submission, and delivery to your inbox.
Common Vietnam eVisa mistakes
- Wrong entry port — the eVisa names your entry point; arriving elsewhere can cause issues
- Name mismatches — enter your name exactly as the passport's machine-readable line
- Applying too late — 3-day processing can stretch to a week in busy periods; apply 2 weeks ahead
- Using an unofficial agent site charging $60-100 for the same document
Phu Quoc exception
Flying directly to Phu Quoc island and staying under 30 days? U.S. citizens get a visa exemption — no eVisa needed, as long as you don't transit through mainland Vietnam airports first.
Vietnam eVisa for U.S. Citizens: Application Guide (2026) — FAQ
Do U.S. citizens need a visa for Vietnam?
How much is a Vietnam eVisa for Americans?
How long does Vietnam eVisa processing take?
How long can Americans stay in Vietnam?
Country entry requirements
Related guides
Entry rules change without notice. Always verify with official government sources (travel.state.gov, embassy websites) before booking. Last reviewed October 2026. This page may contain partner links — see our affiliate disclosure.