Getting a U.S. visa as a foreigner living in Vietnam requires understanding essential documents, procedures, fees, and processing times that determine your travel eligibility to the United States. You need to know which visa type fits your purpose, prepare the correct paperwork, and follow the right steps to get approved for your American journey.

A U.S. visa for foreigners in Vietnam means the official permission you need to enter the United States when you’re not American but currently residing in Vietnam. The main categories include non-immigrant visas for temporary visits and immigrant visas for permanent residence, each with different requirements and procedures.

The application process follows a clear structure involving document preparation, online DS-160 form completion, visa fee payment, and mandatory interview scheduling at U.S. Embassy or Consulate locations in Vietnam. Essential requirements include a valid passport with at least six months validity, completed application forms, and recent photographs meeting U.S. specifications.

Whether you’re eligible for visa-free travel, need to understand specific documentation requirements, or require step-by-step guidance through the application process, this comprehensive guide addresses common questions about interview procedures, processing timelines, and professional visa services. From initial document preparation to final interview attendance, we’ll walk you through each stage to ensure your U.S. visa application success.

At VisaNow, we’ve helped many clients in Vietnam get their U.S. visas approved. Our experience shows that proper preparation and knowing what to expect makes all the difference.

Who can visit the U.S. without applying for a visa?

The United States allows visa-free travel for citizens from 41 countries and territories through the Visa Waiver Program for up to 90 days. This program makes travel easier for millions of people around the world.

Here is how visa-exempt countries are organized by region:

U.S. visa requirements for foreign applicants in Vietnam

Meeting the right conditions is very important for getting your US visa. These things you need help prove you’re legally living in Vietnam and have good reasons to visit America.

You must meet these basic conditions:

• Valid passport that stays valid for at least 6 months after your planned entry date
• Legal living status in Vietnam through work permit, temporary residence card, or valid Vietnam visa
• Clear travel purpose with proper documents explaining why you want to visit the US
• Complete visa application filled out honestly and correctly
• Enough money to cover your trip expenses and living costs in America
• Strong ties to Vietnam proving you plan to return after your visit
• Clean background with no criminal record or previous US immigration violations

Meeting all these conditions greatly increases your chances of visa approval. Make sure you can show each thing you need with proper documents.

What documents do you need for US visa application?

Getting your documents ready is the most important step in your US visa application. Here’s what you’ll need to prepare based on your specific situation:

How to get a US visa for foreign nationals in Vietnam?

The application process follows 5 clear steps. Following them correctly will help you avoid problems and delays.

Step 1. Prepare and notarize your documents

Document preparation usually takes 2-3 days and determines your application’s success. First, gather all required documents from the lists above. Ensure each document meets US consulate standards.

Get your foreign documents professionally translated into English with official translator stamps. Make certified copies of all originals while keeping originals safe for your interview. Double-check everything before proceeding – missing or incorrect documents cause delays or rejection.

Step 2. Fill out the DS-160 visa application form online

You must complete the DS-160 visa application form entirely online through the official US government website: https://ceac.state.gov/genniv/. This form requires detailed information about your background, travel plans, and financial situation.

Fill every section truthfully and completely using information that matches your supporting documents. Enter personal details exactly as they appear in your passport. Save your progress frequently and print the confirmation page when finished – you’ll need this for your interview.

Step 3. Make the payment for the visa fees

After completing the DS-160 form, you need to pay the U.S. Consular fees and passport delivery fees. Registration is done online at the website: https://atlasauth.b2clogin.com/.

Visa payment process includes:

• Pay the visa fee (USD 185) and delivery fees
• Create an account on the system
• Enter personal details and passport number.
• Enter the confirmation code from your DS-160 form
• Choose your preferred delivery method

Step 4. Schedule your interview appointment online

After you complete the fee payment and receive your receipt, you can schedule your interview appointment. After 11 AM the next day, you can access the website www.ustraveldocs.com with the account you created during the payment process to schedule your US visa interview.

You need the following information to schedule your appointment:

• Your passport number
• Visa fee payment receipt number
• 10-digit barcode number from your DS-160 form

Choose between the US Embassy in Hanoi or US Consulate in Ho Chi Minh City based on your residence location. Interview appointments fill quickly, especially during peak seasons (May-August and holidays), so book as early as possible.

Step 5. Complete interview and receive results

Arrive at the embassy or consulate 15-30 minutes before your scheduled appointment time. Bring all original documents, DS-160 confirmation page, appointment confirmation, and fee payment receipt.

The interview typically lasts 3-5 minutes. The consular officer will ask about your travel plans, employment, finances, and connections to Vietnam. Answer clearly, honestly, and confidently while remaining respectful.

If approved, you’ll receive your passport with the visa within 2-5 working days through mail delivery or pickup. If denied, you’ll get an explanation letter and can reapply after addressing the issues.

Where to submit your U.S. visa application as a foreigner in Vietnam?

You can submit your U.S. visa application at two official US diplomatic missions in Vietnam. Both locations serve all foreign residents regardless of nationality.

Important reminders:

• Schedule your appointment online before visiting
• Arrive 15-30 minutes early to avoid delays
• Security is strict – no phones, bags, or electronic devices allowed inside
• Late arrivals may be refused entry and must reschedule

How long does US visa processing take?

US visa processing time varies based on several factors that affect when you’ll receive your final decision.

• Document preparation: Takes 1-2 weeks if all documents are ready, longer if you need to request them.
• Interview appointment: The longest waiting time. During busy seasons (May-August, holidays), it can take 3-4 weeks or more.
• Interview and decision: The interview lasts 3-5 minutes. If approved, you’ll receive your passport with the visa within 2-5 working days.
• Total processing time: Typically 4-6 weeks, or 6-8 weeks during peak periods.

Planning recommendation: Apply 2-3 months before your travel date to allow time for delays, document corrections, or reapplication if needed.

U.S. visa costs for foreign applicants in Vietnam

U.S. visa fees include two main types that you need to understand when planning your application budget.

Consular fees (MRV fees) for each type of US visa

Document delivery fee

Frequently asked questions about U.S. visas

Professional US visa services – VisaNow experts help you succeed

VisaNow specializes in helping foreign nationals living in Vietnam navigate the US visa application process successfully. With over 6 years of experience and trusted partnerships with more than 500 businesses, we understand the unique challenges foreigners face when applying from Vietnam.

Why choose our US visa services:

• Expert document review – We examine every document before submission to prevent common mistakes that cause delays or rejections
• Personalized guidance – Each nationality and employment situation requires different approaches. We customize our advice for your specific circumstances
• Interview preparation – Practice sessions with experienced consultants who understand what US consular officers expect
• Complete process management – From initial consultation to visa collection, we handle every step professionally

Our comprehensive approach has helped many applicants successfully obtain their U.S. visas. We know exactly which documents U.S. consulates prioritize and how to present your case most effectively.

We hope this guide has given you clear information about applying for a U.S. visa in Vietnam. With careful preparation and the right support, most applications are successful. Contact VisaNow at HOTLINE 1900 63 63 50 for expert help throughout your visa process.