For emergencies, U.S. citizens should call the US Embassy Hanoi at (024) 3850 5000 or US Consulate Ho Chi Minh City at (028) 3520 4200 / (028) 3520 4600 – both lines available 24/7. The Embassy serves northern Vietnam while the Consulate covers southern regions. American Citizen Services provides passport assistance, emergency support, and consular services for U.S. citizens living or working in Vietnam.
As a foreign language teacher or education professional in Vietnam, having accurate emergency contact information for U.S. diplomatic services is essential. This guide provides verified contact details and service information to help you access assistance when needed.
What Are the US Embassy Vietnam Emergency Contact Numbers?
The emergency contact numbers are: Hanoi (024) 3850 5000 | Ho Chi Minh City (028) 3520 4200 or (028) 3520 4600. These emergency lines operate 24 hours daily, including weekends and holidays. If calling from outside Vietnam, dial +84 24 3850 5000 (Hanoi) or +8428 3520 4200 / +8428 3520 4600 (HCMC).
According to official U.S. Embassy guidance, these emergency numbers should be used for:
- Medical emergencies requiring immediate assistance
- Arrest or detention by Vietnamese authorities
- Death of a U.S. citizen
- Lost or stolen passports requiring emergency replacement
- Crime victimization needing consular support
- Missing person situations
- Parental child abduction cases
- Destitution requiring emergency assistance
Important Note: These lines are exclusively for emergency situations involving U.S. citizens. For routine inquiries about passports, visas, or general questions, use the non-emergency contact methods listed below.
Where Is the American Embassy Located in Hanoi?
The US Embassy Hanoi has two key locations: the main facility at 7 Lang Ha Street, Ba Dinh District, Hanoi, and the Consular Section at Rose Garden Building, 2nd Floor, 170 Ngoc Khanh Street, Hanoi. The Embassy serves all regions of Vietnam north of Hue.
US Embassy Hanoi Contact Information
Main Embassy Address: 7 Lang Ha Street, Ba Dinh District, Hanoi, Vietnam
Consular Section Address: Rose Garden Building, 2nd Floor, 170 Ngoc Khanh Street, Hanoi, Vietnam
Emergency Phone: (024) 3850 5000 (24/7)
From Outside Vietnam: +84 24 3850 5000
Operating Hours:
- Monday through Thursday: 8:30 AM – 11:30 AM and 1:00 PM – 3:30 PM
- Closed: Fridays, Vietnamese holidays, and U.S. holidays
Coverage Area: All provinces north of Hue, including Hanoi, Haiphong, Ha Long Bay, Sapa, and northern regions.
Security and Access Requirements
The Embassy website notes that:
- Appointments are required for most routine services
- Electronic devices (phones, laptops, tablets) are not permitted inside
- Bag size restrictions apply
- Security screening is mandatory for all visitors
Note: For specific appointment procedures and current requirements, visit vn.usembassy.gov or call the general inquiry line.
How Do I Contact the US Consulate in Ho Chi Minh City?
The US Consulate General Ho Chi Minh City is located at 4 Le Duan Boulevard, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City. The emergency contact numbers are (028) 3520 4200 or (028) 3520 4600, available 24/7. From outside Vietnam, dial +8428 3520 4200 or +8428 3520 4600.
US Consulate HCMC Contact Information
Address: 4 Le Duan Boulevard, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
Emergency Phone: (028) 3520 4200 or (028) 3520 4600 (24/7)
From Outside Vietnam: +8428 3520 4200 or +8428 3520 4600
Operating Hours:
- Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, Friday: 8:30 AM – 11:30 AM and 1:00 PM – 4:30 PM
- Wednesday: Closed to public
- Closed: Vietnamese holidays and U.S. holidays
Coverage Area: All regions south of and including Hue, covering major cities like Ho Chi Minh City, Da Nang, Nha Trang, Can Tho, and southern provinces.
US Embassy vs Consulate Vietnam: Which Should I Contact?
Contact the US Embassy Hanoi if you’re located north of Hue. Contact the US Consulate HCMC if you’re south of or in Hue. Both facilities provide identical American Citizen Services – choose based on your geographic location.
Contact Information Comparison
| Facility | US Embassy Hanoi | US Consulate HCMC |
|---|---|---|
| Emergency Phone | (024) 3850 5000 | (028) 3520 4200 / 4600 |
| International | +84 24 3850 5000 | +8428 3520 4200 / 4600 |
| Main Address | 7 Lang Ha Street | 4 Le Duan Boulevard, District 1 |
| Consular Address | 170 Ngoc Khanh Street | Same as main address |
| Operating Days | Monday-Thursday | Mon-Fri (except Wednesday) |
| Morning Hours | 8:30 AM – 11:30 AM | 8:30 AM – 11:30 AM |
| Afternoon Hours | 1:00 PM – 3:30 PM | 1:00 PM – 4:30 PM |
| Coverage Area | North of Hue | South of & including Hue |
Non-Emergency General Inquiries
For routine questions (not emergencies):
- Within Vietnam: Call 19005314 (Vietnamese and English support available)
- International: Call +1-703-468-4776
- Email: support-acs-vietnam@usvisascheduling.com
- Online: Submit inquiry form at vn.usembassy.gov
According to the Embassy website, general inquiry support operates Monday-Friday, 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM Vietnam time.
What Services Does American Citizen Services Provide?
American Citizen Services (ACS) provides passport services, emergency assistance, notarial services, birth/death documentation, and crisis support for U.S. citizens in Vietnam. Services are available at both the US Embassy Hanoi and US Consulate HCMC.
According to official Embassy information, ACS units assist U.S. citizens with:
Core Services
Passport Services:
- New passport applications
- Passport renewals
- Emergency passport issuance for urgent travel
- Lost or stolen passport replacement
Emergency Assistance:
- Medical emergency coordination
- Arrest or detention support
- Death of U.S. citizen assistance
- Missing person search coordination
- Crime victim support
Legal and Notarial Services:
- Document notarization
- Affidavits and powers of attorney
- Certification services
Birth and Death Documentation:
- Consular Reports of Birth Abroad (CRBA)
- Reports of Death Abroad
Federal Benefits Information:
- Social Security coordination
- Veterans Affairs information
- IRS tax filing guidance
Important Service Limitations
The Embassy website clearly states that ACS cannot:
- Provide employment assistance or help with local work permits
- Serve as legal representation in Vietnamese courts
- Act as a bank or provide loans (except emergency situations)
- Handle Vietnamese visa matters
- Override Vietnamese laws or regulations
How Do I Schedule an Appointment with American Citizen Services?
Appointments are required for routine services and can be scheduled through USTravelDocs.com/vn or by calling 19005314 (Vietnam) / +1-703-468-4776 (international). Emergency situations do not require appointments – call the emergency numbers directly.
Appointment Booking
According to Embassy guidance:
- Visit ustraveldocs.com/vn for online scheduling
- Create an account or login
- Select your service type
- Choose location (Hanoi or HCMC)
- Select available date and time
- Confirm and prepare required documents
For Emergencies: No appointment needed – call emergency lines immediately:
- Hanoi: (024) 3850 5000
- HCMC: (028) 3520 4200 / 4600
For specific document requirements and detailed appointment procedures, the Embassy recommends reviewing the information at vn.usembassy.gov before your visit.
What Is STEP and Why Should Teachers Enroll?
The Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) is a free service at step.state.gov that registers U.S. citizens with the Embassy, enabling emergency alerts and assistance during crises. Enrollment helps the Embassy contact you during emergencies and improves their ability to provide assistance.
STEP Benefits
According to the State Department, STEP enrollment:
- Enables the Embassy to send emergency notifications and alerts
- Helps the Embassy contact you during natural disasters or security situations
- Makes it easier for the Embassy to locate you in an emergency
- Allows your emergency contact to receive information if needed
How to Enroll
Website: step.state.gov
Requirements: Login.gov account (or guest subscription option)
Cost: Free
Basic enrollment steps:
- Visit step.state.gov
- Create account or use guest option
- Enter your travel/residence information for Vietnam
- Add contact information
- Add emergency contact details
- Confirm enrollment
The system allows you to enroll multiple locations and update information as needed. For teachers on long-term contracts, you can enter your contract period and update whenever you move or change contact information.
For teachers working in Vietnam, emergency preparedness extends beyond Embassy contacts. Familiarize yourself with Essential Emergency Numbers in Vietnam Every Teacher Should Know, covering local emergency services and important contacts.
What Should I Do in a Medical Emergency?
First, call Vietnamese emergency services at 115 for ambulance. Then contact the US Embassy at (024) 3850 5000 (Hanoi) or (028) 3520 4200 (HCMC) for consular assistance. The Embassy can help coordinate care and contact family members.
Embassy Medical Emergency Support
According to official guidance, the Embassy can:
- Provide information about local medical facilities
- Help contact family members (with your consent)
- Coordinate with medical facilities on your behalf
- Monitor your welfare during hospitalization
- Provide guidance on medical evacuation options if necessary
Important Limitations
The Embassy website notes that they cannot:
- Pay medical bills (your responsibility or insurance)
- Provide medical care (not a medical facility)
- Make medical decisions for you
- Guarantee quality of local medical facilities
Insurance Recommendation: The Embassy strongly recommends that all U.S. citizens have comprehensive medical insurance with international coverage, including medical evacuation coverage.
For comprehensive guidance on Vietnam’s medical system, insurance requirements, and healthcare facilities, see our detailed guide: Emergency Medical Care: What to Expect in Vietnam.
How Do I Report a Lost or Stolen Passport?
Immediately call the Embassy emergency line at (024) 3850 5000 (Hanoi) or (028) 3520 4200 (HCMC) to report your lost or stolen passport. You should also file a police report with local Vietnamese authorities.
Immediate Steps
When you discover your passport is lost or stolen:
- Call Embassy emergency number immediately
- Hanoi: (024) 3850 5000
- HCMC: (028) 3520 4200 / 4600
- File Vietnamese police report
- Go to nearest police station
- Request written report (Biên Bản)
- Obtain report number and copy
- Schedule appointment for passport replacement
- The Embassy can provide guidance on emergency or standard replacement options
- You will need to appear in person for passport application
Required Documents
According to Embassy guidance, passport replacement typically requires:
- Completed passport application forms (provided by Embassy)
- Police report
- Proof of U.S. citizenship
- Photo identification
- Passport photos
- Payment
Note: For specific current requirements and processing times, contact the Embassy directly or visit vn.usembassy.gov as requirements may be updated.
Work Permit Implications
If you hold a Vietnamese work permit:
- Notify your employer immediately
- You will need to update your work permit with new passport information
- Vietnamese immigration notification is required
- Allow adequate time for all updates to be processed
What Assistance Can the Embassy Provide If I’m Arrested?
If arrested, request that Vietnamese authorities immediately notify the US Embassy. The Embassy will send a consular officer to visit you, ensure humane treatment, and provide attorney information, but cannot get you released or provide legal representation.
Your Rights and Embassy Support
According to official information, if you are arrested in Vietnam:
What the Embassy WILL do:
- Visit you in detention (typically within 24-48 hours of notification)
- Provide list of English-speaking local attorneys
- Contact family/friends (with your written consent)
- Monitor your treatment and detention conditions
- Provide information about the Vietnamese legal process
What the Embassy CANNOT do:
- Get you released from custody
- Post bail or pay legal fees
- Represent you in court
- Provide legal advice specific to your case
- Override Vietnamese law
Important to Remember
- Vietnamese law applies to all foreigners, including U.S. citizens
- Foreign attorneys cannot practice criminal law in Vietnamese courts
- You will need to hire a local Vietnamese attorney
- All legal fees are your responsibility
If Arrested: State clearly: “I am a U.S. citizen. Please notify the American Embassy immediately.”
How Do I Contact the Embassy About a Death?
Call the Embassy emergency line at (024) 3850 5000 (Hanoi) or (028) 3520 4200 (HCMC) immediately upon learning of a U.S. citizen’s death in Vietnam. A consular officer will guide you through required procedures.
Embassy Death Services
According to official guidance, the Embassy will:
- Issue a Report of Death Abroad (official U.S. government documentation)
- Assist with contacting next-of-kin in the United States
- Provide guidance on Vietnamese death certificate procedures
- Offer information about repatriation or local burial options
- Help coordinate with local authorities
Financial Responsibilities
The Embassy website clearly states:
- The Embassy does not pay for death-related expenses
- Costs for repatriation, burial, or cremation are the responsibility of the family or deceased’s estate
- Medical insurance with repatriation coverage is strongly recommended
For specific procedures and current requirements, contact the Embassy emergency line directly in the event of a death.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can the Embassy help with Vietnamese visa matters?
No, the US Embassy cannot assist with Vietnamese visa or work permit matters. These are handled solely by Vietnamese immigration authorities. For visa assistance, contact the Vietnam Immigration Department at xuatnhapcanh.gov.vn or your nearest Vietnamese immigration office.
What if I cannot travel to Hanoi or HCMC for services?
The Embassy periodically conducts Consular Outreach Visits to other major cities. Check the Embassy website’s “Consular Visits” section for scheduled dates and locations. For medical or mobility limitations, contact the Embassy to discuss accommodation options.
Can I renew my passport by mail?
Yes, passport renewal by mail may be available if you meet eligibility requirements. According to Embassy information, requirements typically include having a current undamaged passport issued as an adult within the last 15 years. Visit vn.usembassy.gov or contact the Embassy for current eligibility requirements and procedures.
Does the Embassy recommend specific lawyers?
No, the Embassy provides a list of English-speaking attorneys but does not recommend specific lawyers. You must interview attorneys independently, agree on fees in writing, and hire on your own. All legal fees are your responsibility.
Can I walk in without an appointment?
No, appointments are required for routine services. Only emergency situations permit walk-in access. For routine services like passport renewal or notarization, you must schedule an appointment through ustraveldocs.com/vn or by calling 19005314.
Who handles U.S. visa applications for Vietnamese citizens?
The Visa Section at the Embassy/Consulate handles U.S. visa applications. This is separate from American Citizen Services. Vietnamese citizens seeking U.S. visas should visit the visa section of vn.usembassy.gov or contact 19005314 for visa-specific information.
Emergency preparedness requires comprehensive knowledge beyond just Embassy contacts. For complete safety information while teaching in Vietnam, explore our Safety & Emergency category.
This resource library includes:
- Local emergency service contact information
- Health insurance requirements for work permits
- Hospital and medical facility directories
- Crisis response procedures
- Safety planning for teachers
Being prepared and informed is essential for a safe and successful teaching experience in Vietnam.
