Vietnam eVisa for US Citizens: Cost, Processing Time, How to Apply
Short answer: Yes, US citizens need a visa for Vietnam. The simplest option is the 90-day eVisa, applied for online before you travel.
The options at a glance
| Option | Government fee | Processing | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| eVisa, single entry (up to 90 days) | $25 | 3–5 working days | Apply on evisa.gov.vn |
| eVisa, multiple entry (up to 90 days) | $50 | 3–5 working days | Worth it if you'll leave and re-enter |
| Visa on arrival | $25/$50 stamping fee + agency letter fee | Letter in 2–5 days, or hours if urgent | Stamping fee paid in cash at the airport |
| Embassy visa | $50–$150+ | 5–10 business days | For travelers who prefer in-person |
Agency sites typically charge $60–$150 all-in for the same eVisa — the government fee is only $25/$50.
How to apply
- Go to the official portal: evisa.gov.vn (also listed as evisa.xuatnhapcanh.gov.vn). Dozens of lookalike sites charge 2–5x more.
- Fill in the form, upload your passport photo and portrait photo, and pay by card.
- Standard processing is about 3 working days, often 3–5; weekends don't count, and holidays can stretch it.
- Print your eVisa and carry it — airlines check it at check-in.
Know before you go
- Your passport needs 6+ months validity beyond arrival.
- The fee is non-refundable if the application is denied — double-check every name and passport number before submitting.
- Name mistakes and bad photos are the most common causes of delay.
Apply
apply direct at evisa.gov.vn and pay only the government fee.
Quick facts
| Item | Detail |
|---|---|
| Fee | eVisa single entry: $25; eVisa multiple entry: $50 |
| Processing | 3–5 working days |
| Validity and entries | Up to 90 days; single or multiple entry |
| Official portal | evisa.gov.vn |
Before you apply
- Have your passport photo and portrait photo ready to upload.
- Have a payment card ready for the government fee.
- Check your passport has 6+ months of validity beyond arrival.
- Plan to print your eVisa and carry it — airlines check it at check-in.
Common mistakes
- Using a lookalike agency site that charges $60–$150 all-in for the same $25/$50 eVisa.
- Typing a name wrong or uploading a bad photo — the most common causes of delay.
- Assuming the fee is refundable if the application is denied — it is not.
- Counting weekends and holidays as working days; they do not count and can stretch processing.
FAQs
- Should I pick single or multiple entry? Multiple entry is worth it if you will leave and re-enter Vietnam during the trip.
- How long does the eVisa take? Standard processing is about 3 working days, often 3–5; weekends do not count.
- Do I need to print the eVisa? Yes. Print it and carry it — airlines check it at check-in.
- What about visa on arrival? It needs an agency letter plus a $25/$50 stamping fee paid in cash at the airport.
*Visa rules change. Confirm current requirements on the official portal before applying. Not legal or immigration advice.*