A valid passport and Vietnamese visa or evidence of a visa exemption are required for entry into the country. U.S. citizens must apply for the visa at the nearest consulate or embassy; they cannot be obtained upon arrival. Please note that a visa exemption agreement does not exist with the United States government; U.S. citizens must apply and be approved for a visa.
Visas are for single or multiple entry with a validity of one month, three months, less than six months (prior approval required) and up to one year (prior approval required).
The Vietmanese visa can be applied for through mail or in person as early as six months prior to the anticipated departure date. A passport with at least one month of validity remaining after the anticipated return date, the application, one passport photo, the appropriate fees and a prepaid return envelope must be submitted.
The embassy requires five business days for processing. Expedited processing, typically one or two business days, is possible for an additional fee.
The Vietmanese government reserves the right to refuse entry to anyone. Even while traveling with a valid visa, some Americans have been denied admission to the country.
