For most travellers from the United States the route is now the e-visa, applied for on the government portal, valid for up to 90 days and available with single or multiple entry. It is issued without any involvement from a consulate, and it has largely replaced the old visa-on-arrival letters.
Quick facts
Only the official government portal issues e-visas. The lookalike sites that charge a premium for the same form are the single most common complaint in this area.
Fees breakdown
| Item | Cost | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| e-visa, single entry | $25 | Up to 90 days |
| e-visa, multiple entry | $50 | Up to 90 days |
| Consular visa | Consular schedule | For categories not covered by the e-visa |
| Work permit | Obtained in Vietnam | By the employer |
| Temporary residence card | Issued in Vietnam | After arrival |
The fee is not refunded if the application is refused, and the e-visa is tied to the passport used in the application.
How to apply
- Check whether your nationality is covered by a visa exemption for short stays.
- Apply for the e-visa on the official portal, uploading a passport scan and a photograph.
- Pay online and wait for the authorisation by email.
- For work, study or long stays, arrange the sponsoring documents in Vietnam first.
- Where a consular visa is needed, file with the mission covering your state.
- Complete the residence card formalities in Vietnam after arrival where the category requires it.
Required documents
- Passport valid at least six months beyond entry, with blank pages.
- Passport scan and a photograph meeting the portal’s rules.
- Proposed entry and exit dates and the intended port of entry.
- Sponsoring documents for work or study categories.
- Proof of lawful residence in the United States for third-country nationals.
- Payment by card on the portal.
Where to apply
Online for the e-visa. Consular categories go to the embassy or the consulate general covering your state.
Additional notes
Travel on the same passport
The e-visa is linked to the passport number used to apply. A new passport means a new application.
Vietnamese citizens do not need one
Anyone still recorded as a Vietnamese citizen travels on a Vietnamese passport. People of Vietnamese origin who have lost that status can ask about the documents available to them.
Exemptions change
Visa exemption arrangements have been extended and adjusted several times in recent years. Check the current list rather than relying on a previous trip.
Working needs a permit
A tourist e-visa never authorises employment. Work requires a permit arranged by the employer in Vietnam.