Do You Need a Visa to Visit Vietnam? Here’s What US Citizens Should Know

Planning a trip to Vietnam? Whether you’re dreaming of floating markets in the Mekong Delta or street food in Hanoi, don’t forget one essential thing before booking that flight: your visa.

If you’re a U.S. citizen, yes—you need a visa to visit Vietnam, even for short tourist stays. Here’s what you need to know before you go:

🛂 Visa Required—No Exceptions

Vietnam does not offer visa-free travel to U.S. passport holders. That means you’ll need to arrange a valid visa before arrival, or you may be denied entry at the border or airport.

✨ E-Visa: The Easy Option

For most travelers, the Vietnam E-Visa is the simplest route. It’s an electronic visa you apply for online, usually issued within 3–5 business days. It’s valid for 30 days, single entry, and can be used at major airports and land crossings.

Have a longer trip planned or multiple entries? You’ll need to apply for a different visa through a Vietnamese embassy or consulate.

📝 Documents You’ll Need

To apply for an e-visa, you’ll typically need:

  • A passport valid for at least 6 months

  • A digital passport photo

  • A scan of your passport page

  • Your entry/exit dates and arrival airport or border checkpoint

Pro tip: Make sure your passport has at least one blank page and isn’t close to expiring.


Vietnam is calling—just don’t skip the visa. Need help fast-tracking your paperwork? Call Texas Tower Passport and Visa at 713-874-1420 for help with e-visas, passport renewals, and everything in between.