Vietnam Visa Cost for US Citizens – 2025 Complete Fee & Application Guide
For US citizens planning a trip to Vietnam in 2025, the first and most crucial step is not booking your flight or packing your bags — it’s securing the correct visa. With over 15 years of experience in Vietnam immigration services, we understand that the visa process can seem straightforward on the surface, but hidden complexities in fees, timelines, and application procedures often lead to costly mistakes and delays. This authoritative guide outlines every Vietnam visa option available for US passport holders, the advantages and disadvantages of each, processing times, and how to choose the most reliable application method to ensure a smooth, stress-free entry into Vietnam.
Do US Citizens Need a Visa for Vietnam?
🌏 Yes. All US passport holders must obtain a visa before entering Vietnam.
🛂 The only exceptions apply to diplomatic or special passports under specific bilateral agreements (rare cases).
Types of Vietnam Visas for US Citizens
🏛️ 1. Embassy Visa
Advantages:
🗓️ Can apply for longer-term visas (up to one year depending on travel purpose).
📑 Suitable for extended business trips or long-term stays.
Disadvantages:
⏳ Requires in-person application and potentially multiple visits.
🗂️ More complex process with extensive documentation.
Processing Time: Typically 5–7 business days, longer for complex cases.
🛬 2. Visa on Arrival (VOA)
Advantages:
🏝️ Quick process suitable for many short-term leisure travelers.
Disadvantages:
📄 Requires online application for an approval letter before travel, printing the letter, and queuing at the VOA counter at the airport to pay the stamp fee.
⏳ Potential long waits at the airport.
✈️ Only applicable for air arrivals.
Processing Time for Approval Letter: 3–5 business days (express service available in as little as 2 hours).
💻 3. E-visa (Optimal Choice for Most Travelers)
Advantages:
🌐 100% online application.
🛫 Accepted at all international airports, land borders, and seaports in Vietnam.
🚀 No queuing for visa issuance upon arrival.
Disadvantages:
🤔 Many applicants are uncertain whether to apply directly or through a trusted agency.
Processing Time: Usually 3–5 business days (express service available in as little as 2 hours).
Visa Duration & Categories
📆 Valid for 30 days or 90 days.
🔄 Single-entry or multiple-entry options.
🧳 Tourist or business purposes.
💰 Each visa type has a different fee.
👉 To check the exact fee for your specific travel needs, visit the Vietnam E-visa Fee Calculator and enter your details.
Processing Time & Extra Charges
⏳ Standard vs. express processing.
🛑 Additional fees for urgent processing, weekends, or public holidays.
💡 Expert Recommendation: Avoid errors and delays by applying through the official Vietnam E-visa Application Form. For personalized assistance, email info@vietnam-evisa.com or contact via WhatsApp/WeChat (scan QR code below).
🛬 VOA: Apply online → receive approval letter → collect visa at the airport and pay stamp fee.
💻 E-visa: Apply online → receive PDF file → print and present upon entry.
Common Mistakes Leading to Visa Rejection
📄 Incorrect passport details or substandard photo.
🚫 Choosing the wrong visa type or duration.
🗂️ Missing documents required for the stated travel purpose.
Fast & Reliable Option
For guaranteed approval, rapid turnaround, and professional support, use Vietnam Visa Services:
✅ 100% visa approval rate.
🚀 Processing in as little as 2–8 hours.
📑 Minimal paperwork, pre-verified by experienced staff before submission.
📞 24/7 customer support, over 15 years of industry expertise.
💵 Full refund if your visa is not issued on time.
Final Advice for US Travelers
🏆 Choose the E-visa for speed, convenience, and versatility.
📅 Apply early to avoid urgent processing fees.
🔍 Double-check all details before submission.
⚠️ Important: Many US travelers applying directly through the government’s E-visa website face delays due to application errors, language barriers, peak-season backlogs, or lack of customer support. To avoid wasting time and money, partner with a professional visa service that guarantees accuracy and timely approval.
