Vietnam Travel Guide Backpacking and Individual Travel Blog
Vietnam visa for Americans 2026: Learn if U.S. citizens need a visa, how to apply online for the 90-day e-Visa, fees, tips, and FAQs
Planning a trip to Vietnam in 2026? Whether you’re dreaming of sailing through the emerald waters of Ha Long Bay, exploring the lantern-lit streets of Hoi An, or soaking up the vibrant energy of Ho Chi Minh City, one of the first questions every U.S. traveler asks is: Do Americans need a visa for Vietnam?
The short answer is yes—but the process has never been easier thanks to Vietnam’s expanded e-Visa system.
Do Americans Need a Visa for Vietnam in 2026?
Yes. U.S. citizens are not exempt from visas when visiting Vietnam. Unlike travelers from some Southeast Asian or European countries who enjoy visa waivers, Americans must apply for and hold a valid visa before entering.
The good news? Since August 2023, Vietnam’s immigration policy has been updated to allow 90-day e-Visas with both single and multiple-entry options. This means you can stay longer and even hop over to neighboring countries like Cambodia, Laos, or Thailand before returning to Vietnam—all with one visa.
How to Apply for a Vietnam e-Visa (Step by Step)
The Vietnam e-Visa is the easiest and most popular choice for American travelers in 2026. The entire process is online, eliminating the old “visa on arrival” system. Here’s how it works:
- Visit the official Vietnam Immigration Portal at immigration.gov.vn.
- Fill in the online form with your passport details, travel dates, and planned entry/exit checkpoints.
- Upload documents:
- A scanned copy of your passport (valid for at least 6 months beyond entry).
- A recent passport-style photo (digital file).
- Pay the visa fee online:
- US $25 for a single-entry visa.
- US $50 for a multiple-entry visa.
- Wait for processing: Approval usually takes 3–5 business days. During peak seasons, allow up to a week.
- Receive and print your e-Visa (PDF file sent via email). Present it upon arrival at immigration in Vietnam.
Important Things to Know Before You Go
- Entry points: Your e-Visa is valid at 42 international checkpoints, including major airports like Hanoi (Noi Bai), Ho Chi Minh City (Tan Son Nhat), and Da Nang. Make sure the entry point you choose matches your application.
- Extensions: While the e-Visa is valid for 90 days, extensions may be possible through travel agencies or local immigration offices.
- No more visa on arrival: Don’t rely on the old airport system; only pre-approved e-Visas and embassy-issued visas are accepted.
- Print a hard copy: Keep both a printed version and a digital backup on your phone.
Why the e-Visa Is Perfect for Americans in 2026
With longer validity and multiple-entry options, the e-Visa is ideal for Americans who want to combine Vietnam with other destinations in Southeast Asia. Whether you’re planning a quick two-week adventure or a three-month slow travel journey, the new system is flexible, affordable, and hassle-free.
Final Travel Tip
So, do Americans need a visa for Vietnam in 2026? Absolutely. But with the streamlined e-Visa process, getting one is simple, quick, and inexpensive. Just apply online before your trip, and you’ll be ready to dive into Vietnam’s incredible landscapes, cuisine, and culture with peace of mind.
👉 Pro tip: Apply at least two weeks before departure to avoid last-minute stress, especially during holidays like Tet (Vietnamese New Year).
