Step-by-Step Guide for US Citizens: Applying for Vietnam Visa Upon Arrival at Ho Chi Minh Airport (2025)

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After nearly 18 hours of flying from the United States, you finally land at Tan Son Nhat International Airport in Ho Chi Minh City. You’re exhausted, your legs ache, and all you want is to head to your hotel and take a nap. But one thing still stands between you and the bustling streets of Saigon: your Vietnam visa. Don’t panic — this guide is your roadmap, leading you through each step of the visa on arrival (VOA) process at Ho Chi Minh Airport in 2025, designed specifically for US citizens.

Who Needs a Vietnam Visa on Arrival and What Are the Requirements for US Citizens?

As of 2025, US citizens are required to have a visa to enter Vietnam, including when arriving at Ho Chi Minh City. Visa on Arrival (VOA) is a convenient option that allows you to receive your visa at the airport, but it’s only applicable if you’re flying into Vietnam via air and arriving at one of the international airports, such as Tan Son Nhat (SGN).

To be eligible for VOA, your passport must be valid for at least six months from your date of entry into Vietnam. Additionally, your passport must have at least one blank page for the visa stamp. VOA is not available for those entering Vietnam by land or sea; it is strictly for air travelers only.

It’s also important to note that VOA is not an instant, walk-up service — you must secure a Visa Approval Letter in advance from a reliable visa agency before boarding your flight to Vietnam. Without this letter, you won’t be allowed to board your plane in the US.

What Should US Citizens Prepare Before Flying to Ho Chi Minh City?

Before you even leave the United States, you’ll need to complete several essential steps to ensure a smooth VOA process. The most critical step is applying for your Visa Approval Letter, which is an official pre-approval document issued by the Vietnam Immigration Department. You can easily request it online via a reputable site like Vietnam Immigration. The standard processing time is 3–5 working days, but if you’re in a hurry, express services can get it done in as little as 2–4 hours.

Once you receive your approval letter via email, print a hard copy to carry with you. A black-and-white printout is acceptable. In addition to the letter, you should prepare two recent passport-sized photos (4×6 cm) with a white background. These will be submitted along with your application at the airport.

You’ll also need to complete Form NA1, which you can download and fill out in advance. If you forget, no worries — the form is available at the VOA counter in the airport. Finally, have the stamp fee ready in cash: $25 USD for a single-entry visa, or $50 USD for a multiple-entry visa.

How the Visa on Arrival Process Works for US Citizens at SGN Airport

Once your flight lands in Ho Chi Minh City, follow the signs to the “Visa on Arrival” counter before proceeding to Immigration. You’ll find it located just before the passport control booths. Prepare all the necessary documents: your passport, Visa Approval Letter, Form NA1, two photos, and stamp fee in cash.

Submit your documents to the officer, who will review and process your application. You may be asked to wait for 15–30 minutes while your visa is printed and affixed to your passport. In busy periods, such as national holidays or weekends, the wait time could be longer — so having everything ready and organized helps speed things up.

Once your name is called, you’ll receive your passport with the visa inside. Double-check the visa details for accuracy, and then proceed to the immigration checkpoint to complete the entry process. Congratulations — you’ve officially arrived in Vietnam!

Tips to Save Time and Avoid Hassles

There are a few simple but powerful strategies that can save you both time and stress when applying for your visa on arrival. First, double-check your documents before flying: make sure your approval letter matches your passport details, your photos are the correct size, and the form is fully completed. Missing or incorrect information can lead to delays or even denial of entry.

Second, try to book flights that arrive during off-peak hours, such as early morning or mid-afternoon, to avoid long lines at the VOA desk. Peak times tend to be late evenings or during weekends when multiple international flights land at once.

Lastly, consider using a Vietnam Fast Track service. These services meet you at the aircraft gate and guide you through the VOA process, helping you skip lines and get your visa processed within minutes. With door-to-door support and priority immigration clearance, it’s a game-changer — especially if you’re traveling with kids, elderly family members, or simply want a smooth arrival after a long-haul flight. You can book this service easily through Vietnam Immigration for added peace of mind.

Conclusion

In summary, applying for a Vietnam Visa on Arrival at Ho Chi Minh Airport as a US citizen in 2025 is a straightforward process — if you’re prepared. Make sure to apply for your Visa Approval Letter in advance, bring all necessary documents, and consider using Fast Track services to enhance your arrival experience. With the right planning, you’ll breeze through the visa process and start enjoying everything Vietnam has to offer the moment you step out of the airport.