Arriving in Vietnam means navigating the visa process before flying. For American travelers, a visa is required, and the e-visa option is the most efficient. This single-entry visa costs $25 and allows for a maximum stay of 90 days. With a processing time of 3-5 business days, planning ahead is essential to ensure everything is in order before departure.
You will need to gather specific documents, including a passport valid for at least 6 months beyond your entry date and a passport-size photo. Ensure you apply online through the official portal to avoid any issues at the border. This trip suits those looking for an extended stay in Vietnam, so prepare your application and enjoy your time exploring the country.
What you must sort before you fly to Vietnam
- A visa must be arranged before flying to Vietnam, specifically an e-visa.
- The e-visa costs $25 for a single entry into Vietnam.
- You can stay in Vietnam for a maximum of 90 days with the e-visa.
- Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months beyond your planned entry date.
- Processing time for the e-visa is 3-5 business days, so apply early.
- Prepare a passport-size photo with a white background for your application.
- Ensure you apply through the official portal to avoid complications.
What you must do before landing in Vietnam
You need to complete a visa application before flying to Vietnam. The 90-day single-entry e-visa requires specific documents and a processing time of 3-5 business days. Prepare to gather your passport, a photo, and payment details for a smooth application process.
Pick the right e-visa tier
Choose between the single-entry e-visa for $25 or the multiple-entry option for $50. Ensure you select the tier that matches your travel plans, as the single-entry visa allows one entry within 90 days.
Smart insider: Travelers often overlook the multiple-entry option, which can be beneficial if plans change. The single-entry visa limits you to one entry, so plan accordingly.
Pro move: Apply for the multiple-entry visa if you anticipate needing to leave and re-enter Vietnam during your trip.
Gather required documents
Prepare your passport, which must be valid for at least 6 months beyond your planned arrival date, a passport-size photo, and a scanned copy of your passport’s bio page. You will also need a valid email for e-visa delivery.
Smart insider: Missing documents can delay your application. Ensure your passport validity meets the requirement to avoid complications at entry.
Pro move: Use a recent photo that meets the specified dimensions to prevent rejection of your application.
Complete the online application
Visit the official portal to fill out the e-visa application form. Upload the required documents and make the payment using a credit or debit card.
Smart insider: Many travelers fail to double-check their application details, leading to processing delays. Accurate information is crucial for timely approval.
Pro move: Apply at least two weeks before your travel date to accommodate the processing time.
Wait for visa approval
After submitting your application, wait for 3-5 business days for processing. Check your email for the e-visa approval notification.
Smart insider: Some travelers underestimate the processing time, leading to last-minute stress. Planning ahead ensures you receive your visa on time.
Pro move: Set a reminder to check your email regularly during the processing period.
Save your e-visa for entry
Once approved, download and print your e-visa to present upon arrival in Vietnam. Keep a digital copy on your phone as a backup.
Smart insider: Travelers sometimes forget to bring a printed copy, which can lead to delays at immigration. Having both physical and digital copies ensures you are prepared.
Pro move: Store your e-visa in a dedicated travel folder for easy access during your trip.
Required documents for Vietnam e-visa
- Passport valid 6+ months — Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months beyond your planned arrival date in Vietnam.
Common mistake: Travelers often bring passports that are close to expiring, which can lead to denial at check-in. - Passport-size photo — Provide a passport-size photo (4x6cm) with a white background and a neutral expression.
Common mistake: Many forget to ensure the photo meets the size and background requirements, leading to application rejection. - Scanned passport bio page — Submit a clear and fully legible scanned copy of the passport bio page.
Common mistake: Travelers often submit blurry or unclear scans, which can cause processing delays. - Entry and exit checkpoint selection — Indicate your preferred entry and exit checkpoints during the application process.
Common mistake: Failing to select checkpoints can lead to confusion upon arrival. - Valid email address for e-visa delivery — Provide a valid email address where your e-visa will be sent upon approval.
Common mistake: Using an incorrect email can result in not receiving the e-visa on time. - Credit or debit card for payment — Have a credit or debit card ready to pay the e-visa fee during the application.
Common mistake: Travelers sometimes forget their payment method, causing delays in the application process.
Logistics summary for Vietnam e-visa
Money tip: Pay the e-visa fee in USD to avoid unfavorable exchange rates. Complete all required documents accurately to prevent delays.
Important
Most airlines enforce a 6-month passport-validity buffer at check-in, regardless of the official rule.
Vietnam’s 90-day stay limit and extension reality
The maximum tourist stay in Vietnam is 90 days, and it cannot be extended beyond this period with the current visa options.
To restart your stay in Vietnam, you must leave the country and re-enter. This can be done by crossing a land border or flying to a neighboring country. There is no option to extend the current visa, so planning for a new entry is essential.
Vietnam’s transit and land border rules
The same entry rules apply at land borders as at airports, meaning you will need a valid visa to enter Vietnam. Confirm that the specific land crossing you plan to use is open to foreign tourists, as some may have restrictions.
Pro move: Keep your arrival card and onward ticket easily accessible, and carry the visa fee in local cash when crossing a land border to avoid delays.
Check your visa before you book
Confirm the current rules for your passport, then sort the rest of the trip.
Vietnam visa questions for American travelers
1What is the difference between visa validity and stay duration?
The visa for Vietnam is valid for a single entry and allows a maximum stay of 90 days. This means you can enter the country within the visa validity period but must leave before reaching the 90-day limit.
2Do I need to show proof of funds or an onward ticket?
While there is no official requirement to show proof of funds upon entry, having an onward ticket is advisable. Immigration officers may ask for evidence of your travel plans, so be prepared to present it if requested.
3Should I prepare digital or physical documents for entry?
For Vietnam, the e-visa is a digital document that you must present upon arrival. It is wise to have a backup printout of your e-visa as a precaution, although the primary requirement is the digital version.
4Are there special rules for minors traveling with me?
If traveling with minors, ensure that each child has their own passport and visa if applicable. There are no additional documents required specifically for minors beyond the standard entry requirements.
5What is the difference between single and multiple entry visas?
The e-visa for Vietnam allows for a single entry, meaning you must leave the country before the 90-day limit expires. If you wish to re-enter, you will need to apply for a new visa.
6What should I do if I make a mistake in my e-visa application?
If you notice an error in your e-visa application, you will need to submit a new application with the correct information. The visa is linked to your application details, so accuracy is crucial.
7What are the consequences of overstaying my visa?
Overstaying your visa in Vietnam can result in fines and potential legal issues. The maximum stay is 90 days, and exceeding this limit can lead to penalties, including being barred from future entry.
8How are fees paid upon arrival in Vietnam?
The visa fee of $25 for a single entry must be paid online during the e-visa application process. Upon arrival, you will need to present your e-visa and any required documents, but no additional fees are collected at the border.
