American travelers visiting Vietnam in 2026 face two key pre-travel tasks: confirming their visa exemption status and completing the new mandatory pre-arrival registration. This guide covers both requirements for US citizens, with step-by-step instructions for the pre-arrival form.
Do US Citizens Need the Vietnam Pre-Arrival Form?
Yes. Starting April 15, 2026, all foreign passport holders – including US citizens – must complete the Vietnam Pre-Arrival Registration Form before arriving at a Vietnamese international airport. The US Embassy in Vietnam confirmed this requirement and issued guidance to American citizens.
The form is free, takes 3-5 minutes, and is submitted at prearrival.immigration.gov.vn. You receive a QR code instantly after submission, which you present at immigration.
Visa Requirements for US Citizens in 2026
American citizens currently enjoy visa-free access to Vietnam for up to 90 days. This exemption was extended in August 2023 and remains in effect in 2026. For stays up to 90 days, no e-visa or visa on arrival is required.
For stays exceeding 90 days, or for specific visa categories (work, study, etc.), US citizens must apply for a Vietnam e-visa at evisa.gov.vn (USD 25 single entry / USD 50 multiple entry).
Important: The 90-day visa exemption does not exempt you from the pre-arrival declaration form. These are two separate requirements. The pre-arrival form vs eVisa comparison explains the distinction in full.
What US Citizens Need to Enter Vietnam in 2026
- Valid US passport with at least 6 months validity from arrival date
- Completed pre-arrival registration form at prearrival.immigration.gov.vn (free)
- QR code saved on phone or printed
- Return or onward ticket (may be requested by airline or immigration)
- Accommodation details (hotel address)
For stays over 90 days: additionally need a valid Vietnam e-visa.
Step-by-Step Guide for American Travelers
- Visit prearrival.immigration.gov.vn (the official free portal)
- Select English, click “Create and Submit Declaration,” complete the CAPTCHA
- Enter your passport details: full name, passport number, gender, arrival date
- Under visa type, select “Visa exemption” and enter your permitted stay (90 days for US citizens)
- Enter your flight number, departure city, accommodation address in Vietnam, and planned departure date
- Review, confirm, and submit
- Save or screenshot your QR code and check your email for the confirmation
For a detailed walkthrough, see how to fill the Vietnam pre-arrival form.
At the Airport – What to Expect as a US Citizen
US travelers typically arrive at Tan Son Nhat Airport (SGN) in Ho Chi Minh City or Noi Bai Airport (HAN) in Hanoi. At immigration:
- Present your US passport and pre-arrival QR code
- The officer scans your QR code
- Proceed through immigration
- Your entry stamp grants 90 days stay (visa-free)
The US Embassy specifically advises American citizens to complete the form before arriving at Tan Son Nhat to avoid delays. During peak arrival periods (evenings, holidays), immigration queues at SGN can exceed 40 minutes. For airport details, see Vietnam pre-arrival form airports guide.
Tips for American Travelers
- Complete the pre-arrival form 2-3 days before your flight departs
- Screenshot the QR code immediately – do not rely solely on the email
- Bring a physical printout as backup for long-haul flights where battery may be low
- Check that your passport has 6+ months validity – US passport renewals can take several weeks
- US citizens do not need to pay anything for the pre-arrival form – avoid third-party services
Frequently Asked Questions
Do Americans need a visa to visit Vietnam in 2026?
No – US citizens can enter Vietnam visa-free for up to 90 days. However, they must complete the free pre-arrival registration form at prearrival.immigration.gov.vn before arrival.
How long can Americans stay in Vietnam visa-free?
Up to 90 days per visit. For longer stays, apply for a Vietnam e-visa at evisa.gov.vn (USD 25 single / USD 50 multiple entry).
Do American children need the pre-arrival form?
Yes. Any US citizen with their own passport must be included in the pre-arrival declaration. Children can be added to a parent’s group declaration.
I am a US citizen of Vietnamese origin – do I need the form?
If you are entering on your US passport, yes – you need the pre-arrival form. If you hold both US and Vietnamese passports and enter on your Vietnamese passport, the form is not required.