Current time in Vietnam:
American

How to Get a Vietnam Visa on Arrival for Americans in 2025 (Step-by-Step Guide to Avoid Mistakes)

Every year, hundreds of Americans arrive in Vietnam airports expecting to get their visa on arrival—only to be turned away due to a small mistake.
In 2025, Vietnam’s entry policies are stricter than ever. Yet, with the right preparation, you can still enter Vietnam legally and stress-free using Visa on Arrival (VOA). This guide gives you the latest updates, real solutions, and an expert-backed process to get your VOA approved quickly and safely. Don’t risk being denied at immigration—read on and avoid the common traps that could ruin your trip.


What Is a Vietnam Visa on Arrival (VOA)?

A Vietnam Visa on Arrival (VOA) is an official visa that travelers can obtain at Vietnam’s international airports after landing. Unlike a consular visa that you apply for in person at an embassy, the VOA allows you to receive your visa once you arrive, provided you have a valid Visa Approval Letter issued beforehand.

In 2025, VOA remains a valid and commonly used option for U.S. citizens. However, only those arriving by air can use this service. The process starts with applying online to receive a Visa Approval Letter through a licensed agency. This document is required to board your flight and receive the visa stamp upon arrival.

Airports that accept VOA include Noi Bai (Hanoi), Tan Son Nhat (Ho Chi Minh City), Da Nang, Nha Trang, and Phu Quoc. Travelers entering via land or sea must use other visa methods.


Is Vietnam Visa on Arrival Still Available for Americans in 2025?

Yes, Vietnam continues to offer VOA for U.S. passport holders in 2025—but with stricter requirements. Due to post-COVID adjustments, travelers must secure a Visa Approval Letter before boarding their flight. Without it, airline staff can deny boarding, or you may be refused entry upon arrival.

These letters are issued by trusted, government-authorized visa agents. Once you have this letter, you’ll be permitted to complete the visa process at your airport of entry. It’s a simple, efficient system—but only if executed properly.

Failing to follow the correct process, such as showing up at the airport without the required paperwork, can result in major delays or even being deported back to the U.S.


Step-by-Step: How Americans Can Apply for Vietnam VOA

  1. Apply for a Visa Approval Letter
    Visit a reliable website like VietnamImmigration.com and complete the form with your passport details, travel dates, and type of visa. The agency will process your request and email you the official Approval Letter.
  2. Check and Print the Approval Letter
    Ensure all information (name, passport number, dates) is accurate. Print the letter in color and keep a copy on your phone or cloud storage.
  3. Prepare Documents
    Bring the following:
    • The printed Approval Letter
    • Two passport-sized photos (4×6 cm)
    • Your original passport (valid for at least 6 months)
    • Completed entry-exit form (often included by agencies)
    • Visa stamping fee in USD ($25 for single entry, $50 for multiple entry)
  4. Get the Visa at the Airport
    At the VOA counter, submit your documents and pay the fee. After verification, you’ll receive the visa stamped into your passport and can proceed through immigration.

Top Mistakes That Get Americans Denied at the Airport

  • Missing Approval Letter
    You cannot apply for VOA on the spot without the pre-approved letter. Airlines won’t let you board without it.
  • Incorrect Details on Letter
    Wrong passport numbers, misspelled names, or mismatched dates can invalidate your visa approval.
  • Poor or Missing Photos
    Photos must be the correct size (4×6 cm), recent, and printed on photo paper. Blurry or digital photos often get rejected.
  • Incorrect Payment Format
    The stamping fee must be in USD cash. Other currencies or insufficient amounts will delay or halt the process.
  • No Fast Track Support
    If you’re unfamiliar with Vietnamese airports or traveling with children, skipping Fast Track services may cost you time and stress.

Why Use a Trusted Visa Service for Vietnam VOA?

A professional visa agency simplifies the entire process and eliminates risks. VietnamImmigration.com offers:

  • Fast turnaround—approval letters issued within 2–8 working hours
  • 100% approval guarantee, or full refund
  • 24/7 customer support, even on weekends and holidays
  • Expert review of your documents before submission
  • Optional airport assistance for first-time travelers

Using a reputable service not only saves you time but gives you peace of mind and ensures your visa is legally valid and error-free.


Final Checklist Before You Fly

✅ Printed Visa Approval Letter
✅ Two passport-sized photos (4×6 cm)
✅ Valid passport with at least 6 months remaining
✅ Completed entry-exit form
✅ Stamping fee in USD: $25 (single) or $50 (multiple)
✅ Optional: print extra documents, bring backup ID, use Fast Track service


Conclusion

Vietnam Visa on Arrival remains a flexible and traveler-friendly solution for U.S. citizens in 2025—but only if you follow the correct process. By preparing thoroughly, avoiding common mistakes, and working with a trusted visa agency, you’ll ensure a smooth arrival and enjoy everything Vietnam has to offer. Don’t leave your trip to chance—start your VOA application the right way today.

👉 Apply for your VOA here

YOU MIGHT BE INTERESTED

Confused about which Vietnam visa to choose in 2025? Between eVisa, Visa on Arrival (VOA), and consular visa, many U.S. travelers aren’t sure which option suits their trip best—especially with …

Planning a tropical escape to Vietnam from Australia? With its ancient temples, vibrant street food culture, and scenic coastlines, Vietnam is at the top of many Aussie travellers’ lists for …

You don’t have time to read through every line of visa regulations? Need to be in Vietnam within a day or two for an urgent business meeting? Don’t worry—you’re not …

Are you an American professional or entrepreneur planning a business trip to Vietnam in 2025, yet overwhelmed by visa procedures? Do terms like “invitation letter,” “embassy application,” or “VOA” sound …

You’ve booked your flight. You’re counting down the days. But wait—do you actually know how to apply for your Vietnam visa from Canada in 2025? Don’t let outdated info or …

Are you a US citizen planning a trip to Vietnam in 2025? Don’t get caught in visa confusion — here’s your complete guide to entering Vietnam without a hitch. With …

I almost missed my flight to Vietnam. No joke—my bags were packed, hotel booked, itinerary set. Then I realized something awful: I had forgotten to apply for a visa. Worse? …

You’ve booked your flight, packed your bags, and are all set for your trip to Vietnam — but suddenly realize: you don’t have a visa. With less than 24 hours …

Imagine this: your flight to Vietnam departs tomorrow. Your bags are packed. Your itinerary is ready. But then – you suddenly realize your visa isn’t. Panic sets in. It happens …

Visit this link on mobile
Risky Free:
We charge service fee when your visa application is processed successfully.
Hassle-Free:
No passport send-off. No embassy queuing.
Fast:
Within 48 hours processing time.
Accessible:
100% online. Send and receive by email.
APPLY FOR VISA ON ARRIVAL VIETNAM
VietnamImmigration.com is a commercial website providing service for visa Vietnam and charge service fee. We are neither government website nor affiliated with embassy therefore our fee is higher than official fee from government.