Can US Citizens Get a Vietnam Visa on Arrival?

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For American travelers planning a trip to Vietnam, a common question is: Can US citizens get a Vietnam visa on arrival? The answer is yes, but with conditions. Unlike some countries where you can simply arrive and apply for a visa at the airport, Vietnam visa on arrival (VOA) requires pre-approval before you travel.

In this guide, we’ll explain everything US passport holders need to know about getting a Vietnam visa on arrival, including eligibility, application steps, processing time, visa fees, and alternatives like the Vietnam e-Visa.

What Is Vietnam Visa on Arrival (VOA)?

A Vietnam Visa on Arrival (VOA) is a pre-approved visa that allows travelers to collect their visa stamp upon arrival at a Vietnamese international airport. However, before you board your flight, you must obtain a visa approval letter from the Vietnam Immigration Department through a licensed travel agency.

Key Features of Vietnam Visa on Arrival for US Citizens:

✅ Available only at international airports (not land borders or seaports)
✅ Requires a visa approval letter before departure
✅ Available for tourist and business purposes
✅ Offers single-entry and multiple-entry visas
✅ Allows stays of 30 days, 90 days, 6 months, or 1 year

💡 Important: US citizens cannot arrive in Vietnam without a pre-approved visa and expect to get a visa at the airport. You must apply for a visa approval letter in advance.

Who Can Apply for a Vietnam Visa on Arrival?

Most nationalities, including US citizens, are eligible for Vietnam Visa on Arrival. However, US travelers can also apply for a Vietnam e-Visa or a visa through a Vietnamese embassy or consulate.

If you need a longer stay, multiple entries, or a business visa, then Visa on Arrival is the better choice.

How to Get a Vietnam Visa on Arrival as a US Citizen

The Vietnam Visa on Arrival process involves two steps:

Start your application process today and apply for your visa online quickly and easily.

Step 1: Apply for a Visa Approval Letter (Before Departure)

Since you cannot obtain a Vietnam Visa on Arrival without prior approval, you must first get a visa approval letter from a licensed Vietnamese travel agency.

  1. Find a reputable visa service – Search online for a trusted Vietnamese visa agency.
  2. Complete the visa application form – Provide your full name, passport details, travel dates, and visa type.
  3. Pay the visa approval service fee – The fee varies depending on the visa type and processing time.
  4. Receive the visa approval letter via email – Processing typically takes 2 to 5 business days.

🔹 Tip: Print your visa approval letter, as you will need to present it when boarding your flight and at immigration upon arrival.

Step 2: Obtain Your Visa at a Vietnam Airport

Once you arrive in Vietnam, follow these steps to complete your Visa on Arrival process:

  1. Present your visa approval letter at the immigration counter.
  2. Submit your passport (valid for at least 6 months beyond your stay).
  3. Complete the Vietnam visa application form (Form NA1) – You can download and fill this in advance or complete it at the airport.
  4. Provide two passport-sized photos (4x6 cm, taken within the last 6 months).
  5. Pay the visa stamping fee (cash only, in USD or VND).
  6. Receive your Vietnam visa stamped into your passport.

🚀 Processing time at the airport: Usually 15–45 minutes, depending on the number of applicants.

Vietnam Visa on Arrival Fees for US Citizens

Vietnam VOA fees consist of two parts:

1. Visa Approval Letter Fees

  • Tourist visa: $10 – $25 USD
  • Business visa: $60 – $90 USD
  • Express processing: Additional fee for same-day or next-day approval

2. Visa Stamping Fees (Paid at the Airport in Cash)

  • $25 USD – Single-entry visa (valid for 30 or 90 days)
  • $50 USD – Multiple-entry visa (valid for up to 90 days)
  • $95 USD – 6-month multiple-entry visa
  • $135 USD – 1-year multiple-entry visa (only available for US citizens)

🔹 Tip: Bring exact cash in USD or Vietnamese Dong (VND), as credit cards are not accepted at the airport visa counter.

Where Can US Citizens Get a Visa on Arrival in Vietnam?

Vietnam Visa on Arrival is available only at international airports:

✈ Noi Bai International Airport (Hanoi)
✈ Tan Son Nhat International Airport (Ho Chi Minh City)
✈ Da Nang International Airport (Da Nang)
✈ Cam Ranh International Airport (Nha Trang)
✈ Cat Bi International Airport (Hai Phong)

Start your application process today and apply for your visa online quickly and easily.

🚫 Not available at land borders or seaports – US travelers entering Vietnam by land or sea must apply for a Vietnam e-Visa or obtain a visa from a Vietnamese embassy.

Vietnam Visa on Arrival vs. Vietnam e-Visa for US Citizens

FeatureVietnam Visa on ArrivalVietnam e-Visa
Entry TypeSingle or Multiple EntrySingle or Multiple Entry
Validity30 days, 90 days, 6 months, or 1 year30 days or 90 days
Processing Time2–5 business days3–5 business days
Application ProcessApproval letter requiredOnline application
Entry PointsAirports onlyAirports, land borders, and seaports
CostService fee + stamping fee$25 USD (single entry), $50 USD (multiple entry)
Best forLonger stays, business travelersTourists, short trips

🔹 If you’re a tourist staying up to 90 days, a Vietnam e-Visa is a simpler alternative. If you need multiple entries or a longer stay, Visa on Arrival is the better choice.

Can You Extend a Vietnam Visa on Arrival?

Visa extensions are not guaranteed and depend on Vietnam’s immigration policies. If you need a longer stay, consider:

✔ Applying for a longer-duration visa in advance
✔ Leaving Vietnam and applying for a new visa from another country
✔ Consulting a Vietnamese travel agency for extension options

FAQs About Vietnam Visa on Arrival for US Citizens

1. Can US citizens get a Vietnam visa on arrival without a pre-approval letter?

❌ No. You must apply for a visa approval letter before traveling. Airlines will not let you board without it.

2. How long does it take to get a Vietnam visa approval letter?

⏳ Standard processing: 2–5 business days
⚡ Urgent processing: Same-day or 1-day approval (higher fee)

3. Do I need passport photos for Visa on Arrival?

Yes. Bring two passport-sized photos (4x6 cm).

4. Can I pay the Vietnam Visa on Arrival fee with a credit card?

No. Only cash (USD or VND) is accepted at the airport.

Start your application process today and apply for your visa online quickly and easily.

5. Can I get a Visa on Arrival at a land border or seaport?

No. Visa on Arrival is only available at airports. If entering by land or sea, apply for a Vietnam e-Visa.

Final Thoughts: Should US Citizens Get a Vietnam Visa on Arrival?

For US citizens, Vietnam Visa on Arrival is a great option if you:

✔ Need a longer stay (more than 30 or 90 days)
✔ Require multiple entries
✔ Prefer airport visa pickup

However, if you’re a tourist visiting for 30 or 90 days, a Vietnam e-Visa is a simpler alternative.

Plan ahead, apply for your visa approval letter, and enjoy your trip to Vietnam!

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Start your journey today by applying for your visa online — quick, easy, and hassle-free! Get approved in no time and focus on what matters most: your travel adventure.

Start your application process today and apply for your visa online quickly and easily.

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