American citizens need an e-Visa before travelling to Vietnam.

• Government fee Set by the destination and charged when you submit the e-Visa application.
• Processing / card charge Some official portals add a small payment-handling charge on top.
• Third-party sites Unofficial sites charge far more for the same application — always apply on the official portal.

We deliberately do not publish fee amounts: they differ by visa type and nationality and change often, and a stale number is worse than none. Check the current amount on the official source.

• PassportMust be valid for at least 6 months beyond your intended date of entry into Vietnam, with at least two blank pages.
• Digital photoRecent passport-style photo (plain white background, no glasses, looking straight).
• Digital scan of passport data pageClear and legible scan of your passport's biographical page.
• Confirmed return or onward ticketRecommended to demonstrate intent to depart Vietnam.
• Proof of accommodationRecommended, such as hotel bookings or an invitation letter from a host.
• Travel itineraryRecommended to outline your planned activities in Vietnam.

1. 1
   Access the official Vietnam e-Visa portal.

   Apply for E-visa
2. 2
   Complete the online application form with accurate personal and travel details.
3. 3
   Upload a recent passport-style photo and a clear scan of your passport data page.
4. 4
   Pay the e-Visa processing fee online.
5. 5
   Wait for the e-Visa approval, which will be sent to your registered email address.
6. 6
   Print the e-Visa letter to present upon arrival in Vietnam.

• Incomplete or inaccurate application form.

  How to avoid: Double-check all fields for accuracy, especially passport numbers, dates, and names, before submission.

• Poor quality or incorrect passport photo/scan.

  How to avoid: Ensure your uploaded photo meets passport-style requirements (recent, plain background, no glasses) and your passport data page scan is clear and legible.

• Passport validity less than 6 months from entry date.

  How to avoid: Ensure your passport is valid for at least 6 months beyond your planned arrival date in Vietnam. Renew your passport if necessary.

• Previous immigration violations in Vietnam.

  How to avoid: Always adhere to visa conditions and immigration laws during past visits to Vietnam.

• Security concerns or being on a blacklist.

  How to avoid: Ensure you have no criminal record or past issues that might flag you for security reasons.

• Always carry a copy of your passport and e-Visa, either physical or digital.
• Be aware of local customs and dress modestly when visiting religious sites.
• Use reputable taxi services or ride-sharing apps to avoid scams.
• Stay hydrated, especially in warmer climates, and be mindful of street food hygiene.

• Can I extend my e-Visa while in Vietnam?

  E-visas are generally not extendable. If you wish to stay longer, you may need to apply for a new visa or depart and re-enter. It is advisable to consult with the Vietnam Immigration Department or a local visa agent for current regulations.

• Do I need a visa if I am only transiting through a Vietnamese airport?

  If you remain in the international transit area of the airport and do not pass through immigration, you typically do not need a visa. However, if your transit requires you to exit the airport or stay overnight, an e-Visa may be required.

• Can I work in Vietnam with a tourist e-Visa?

  No, a tourist e-Visa is strictly for tourism purposes and does not permit any form of employment or paid activity in Vietnam. Engaging in work without the appropriate visa can lead to penalties and deportation.

• What is the passport validity requirement for entry into Vietnam?

  Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months beyond your intended date of entry into Vietnam. It should also have at least two blank pages for immigration stamps.

• What happens if my e-Visa application is rejected?

  If your e-Visa application is rejected, you will be notified. You may need to re-apply, ensuring all information is accurate and complete, or consider applying for a traditional visa through a Vietnamese embassy or consulate.

• My passport expires in 5 months - can I still apply for Vietnam?

  Your passport must be valid for at least six months beyond your intended date of entry into Vietnam. If your passport has less than six months of validity remaining, you should renew it before applying for an e-Visa. Applying with a passport that does not meet this requirement may lead to your e-Visa being denied or entry being refused.

• I'm traveling to Vietnam next week, is that enough time to get an e-Visa?

  It is generally recommended to apply for your Vietnam e-Visa at least one week before your planned travel date to allow for processing time. While some applications may be processed faster, there is no guarantee of expedited service. You should check the official e-Visa portal for current processing times and apply as soon as possible.

• I am traveling to Vietnam with my children, do they need their own e-Visas?

  Yes, every individual, including children, must have their own valid e-Visa to enter Vietnam. Each child will need their own passport and a separate e-Visa application submitted on their behalf. Ensure all details match their passports exactly to avoid issues.

• I want to visit Cambodia during my trip to Vietnam, can I re-enter Vietnam on the same e-Visa?

  The standard Vietnam e-Visa is typically for single entry only. If you plan to leave Vietnam and re-enter, you will likely need to apply for a new e-Visa for your second entry. Carefully check the terms of your issued e-Visa to confirm its validity for multiple entries if that option was available and selected.

• What if my travel dates change after my Vietnam e-Visa is approved?

  An approved Vietnam e-Visa is issued with specific entry and exit dates, and these dates cannot be changed once the e-Visa is issued. If your travel dates change significantly, you may need to apply for a new e-Visa that reflects your updated itinerary. Always ensure your travel plans align with the validity period of your e-Visa.

• How much does a Vietnam visa cost for American citizens?

  You pay online when you apply. The total is usually the government e-Visa fee plus any card or processing charge. Government fee: Set by the destination and charged when you submit the e-Visa application. Processing / card charge: Some official portals add a small payment-handling charge on top. Third-party sites: Unofficial sites charge far more for the same application — always apply on the official portal. Fees change regularly, so confirm the current amount on the official source linked on this page before you apply.

• Do I need a separate visa for Ha Long Bay, or does this cover all of Vietnam?

  You do not need a separate visa for any individual city. Entry rules are set nationally, not city by city, so a Vietnam visa is valid for the whole country — including Ha Long Bay, Hoi An Ancient Town, Ho Chi Minh City and Hanoi. Apply once for Vietnam and you can travel anywhere inside it, up to the permitted length of stay.