If you are planning to travel to Vietnam, note that US citizens are required to obtain a visa to enter the country. While traditional embassy visas are still available, the easiest and fastest way for most travelers to fulfill this requirement is by obtaining the Vietnam Electronic Visa (E-Visa).
The Vietnam E-Visa streamlines the application process significantly. The entire application is completed online, eliminating the need to mail your physical U.S. passport or visit a Vietnamese consulate.
This guide provides all the essential info you need to know and the step-by-step process you need to follow to get your Vietnam E-Visa in time for your trip.
Apply for your Vietnam E-Visa quickly and securely with iVisa today! Their expert consierge services help you navigate the strict photo and documentation specifications for a smooth application process.
On This Page
- What is the Vietnam E-Visa?
- Do I Need a Vietnam E-Visa?
- Vietnam E-Visa Features: Validity and Stay Limits
- Applying for Your E-Visa: DIY vs. Full-Service
- Where Can I Enter Vietnam with an E-Visa?
- The Official Vietnam E-Visa Process: A 3-Step Guide
- Beyond the E-Visa: Other Vietnam Entry Requirements
- Vietnam E-Visa Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the Vietnam E-Visa?
The Vietnam E-Visa is an official, electronic travel authorization issued by the Vietnam Immigration Department. It is valid for tourism, business, and transit purposes. Unlike a "Visa on Arrival," which requires a pre-approval letter and a wait at the airport to pay a stamping fee, the E-Visa is a fully digital document that you receive via email and present directly at the border upon arrival.
Do I Need a Vietnam E-Visa?
Yes, as a U.S. citizen, you need a visa to enter Vietnam.
The E-Visa is the most common choice for travelers planning a stay of up to 90 days.
You should apply for a Vietnam E-Visa if your purpose is:
- Tourism: Vacationing, sightseeing, or visiting friends and family.
- Business: Attending conferences, meeting business partners, or signing contracts.
- Transit: Passing through Vietnam en route to another destination.
Note: If you already have a valid physical visa sticker in your passport or a 5-year Visa Exemption Certificate, you do not need an E-Visa until that document expires.
Vietnam E-Visa Features: Validity and Stay Limits
The Vietnam E-Visa system offers flexibility for short and long-term stays.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Official Gov. Fee: | $25 USD (Single Entry) / $50 USD (Multiple Entry). |
| Validity Period: | Up to 90 days from your chosen entry date. |
| Entries: | Single or Multiple Entry options available. |
| Maximum Stay: | Up to 90 days per entry. |
Applying for Your E-Visa: DIY vs. Full-Service
The Vietnam Immigration Department manages the application process through its official portal, which requires specific digital image formats and international payment processing. There are two methods you can choose to apply for your Vietnam E-Visa:
- On Your Own (DIY): For travelers comfortable handling their own travel documentation and navigation of foreign government portals, the official Vietnam E-Visa website is the most direct pathway.
- Using an Assisted Service (iVisa): For travelers who prefer a safe and simplified application process with expert review, a dedicated service is a great option. iVisa simplifies the documentation requirements, checks all uploads (such as your passport photo and bio-page) against strict Vietnamese government specifications, and provides 24/7 multilingual support to ensure a smooth application.
Where Can I Enter Vietnam with an E-Visa?
You can enter Vietnam through any of the designated international border gates. While you must list an entry port on your E-Visa application, current regulations allow you to enter through any of the eligible ports once your visa is issued.
Major International Airports
- Hanoi: Noi Bai International Airport
- Ho Chi Minh City: Tan Son Nhat International Airport
- Da Nang: Da Nang International Airport
- Other Major Hubs: Cam Ranh (Nha Trang), Cat Bi (Hai Phong), Can Tho, Phu Quoc, and Phu Bai (Hue).
Major Land Border Gates
- From China: Mong Cai, Huu Nghi, Lao Cai.
- From Laos: Tay Trang, Na Meo, Nam Can, Cau Treo, Cha Lo, La Lay, Lao Bao, Bo Y.
- From Cambodia: Moc Bai, Xa Mat, Tinh Bien, Ha Tien.
Major Seaports
- Primary Ports: Ho Chi Minh City Port, Hai Phong Port, Da Nang Port, Nha Trang Port, Quy Nhon Port, and Vung Tau Port.
The Official Vietnam E-Visa Process: A 3-Step Guide
The application must be completed online. It is highly recommended to apply at least two weeks before your trip to account for processing times.
| Requirement | Details |
|---|---|
| Processing Time: | Standard 3–5 business days. |
| Recommendation: | Apply at least 14 days before your flight. |
Step 1: Get Your Information Ready
- Valid US Passport: Must have at least 6 months' validity remaining and at least one blank page.
- Passport Photo: A digital photo (color, white background, no glasses, 4x6 cm).
- Bio Page Scan: A clear, color scan of your passport’s main information page.
- Travel Details: Your intended entry and exit dates, and your intended entry port.
Step 2: Complete the Online Application
- Access the official Vietnam E-Visa portal or use a service like iVisa.
- Fill out the personal and travel information forms exactly as they appear on your U.S. passport.
- Upload your digital passport photo and bio-page scan.
Step 3: Pay and Receive Your E-Visa
- Pay the non-refundable government fee ($25 for single entry; $50 for multiple entry).
- Submit the application and save your registration code to check results.
- Confirmation: Once approved, the E-Visa is sent to your email as a PDF. You must print a physical copy to present to immigration upon arrival.
Beyond the E-Visa: Other Vietnam Entry Requirements
An approved E-Visa does not guarantee entry. The final decision rests with the immigration officer at the border.
Be prepared to show:
- Printed E-Visa: You must have a hard copy for the immigration officer to stamp.
- Passport Validity: Must be valid for at least 6 months beyond your entry date.
- Registration: Upon arrival, your accommodation host (hotel or landlord) is required by law to report your presence to local authorities.
Minors: All children traveling on their own passports require their own E-Visa. If a minor is traveling without a parent, a signed consent note is strongly recommended.
For more information on other visa types, see our comprehensive Vietnam Visa Guide.
Vietnam E-Visa Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Yes. All US citizens must have a valid visa to enter Vietnam.
The E-Visa is valid for up to 90 days. You can choose a single-entry or a multiple-entry visa during the application process.
You can enter Vietnam through any of the 42 designated international border gates, including major airports like Noi Bai (Hanoi) and Tan Son Nhat (Ho Chi Minh City).
Yes. You are required to present a printed copy of your E-Visa at the immigration counter upon arrival.
The Vietnamese government generally does not allow for the renewal or extension of an E-Visa from within the country. To stay longer, travelers typically perform a "visa run" by exiting and re-entering using a new visa.
Apply for your Vietnam E-Visa quickly and securely with iVisa today! Let iVisa help you navigate the strict photo and documentation specifications for a smooth application.
