Vietnamese Visa Requirements for USA (2026)
Yes — Vietnamese citizens need a visa to enter the USA. Vietnam is not part of the US Visa Waiver Program, so almost every Vietnamese traveler needs a B-1/B2 visitor visa before flying to America, whether for tourism, family visits, or business.
Visa Requirements at a Glance
| Item | Detail |
|---|---|
| Visa required | Yes, B-1/B2 Visitor Visa |
| Visa Waiver Program (ESTA) eligible | No |
| Application (MRV) fee | $185 |
| Optional expedited interview fee (from July 1, 2026) | $750 |
| Typical processing | Appointment wait varies by consulate; interview then adjudication, often days to weeks, admin processing can add more |
| Maximum stay per entry | Usually up to 6 months, set by the CBP officer at entry |
| Where to apply | US Embassy Hanoi or US Consulate General Ho Chi Minh City |
Source: travel.state.gov visa fee schedule; embassy processing notes, 2026.
FAQs
Do Vietnamese citizens need a visa for the USA? Yes. Vietnam is not a Visa Waiver Program country, so a B-1/B2 visa is required for any US visit.
How much does a US visa cost for Vietnamese citizens in 2026? The base MRV application fee is $185. Applicants who choose the new expedited interview option, available from July 1, 2026, pay an additional $750.
How long does US visa processing take for Vietnamese applicants? Interview wait times vary by consulate and season. Once interviewed, most straightforward cases are decided within days, though administrative processing can add several weeks.
Can Vietnamese citizens get an ESTA instead of a visa? No. ESTA is only for Visa Waiver Program countries, and Vietnam is not on that list.
What documents prove financial ability for a US B-1/B2 visa? Bank statements, an employment letter, and evidence of ties to Vietnam such as property or family are typically requested to show intent to return home.
Can Vietnamese citizens apply for a US visa fully online? The DS-160 form is completed online, but the visa interview must be attended in person at the embassy or consulate.
Related Guides
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