In the heart of Hanoi stands the US Embassy, representing a cornerstone of American diplomacy. This vital institution serves as a crucial hub for advancing American interests while ensuring the well-being of US citizens. Let’s delve into the significance and multifaceted functions of the US Embassy in Hanoi.

1. Contact information of the US Embassy in Hanoi

US Embassy in Vietnam address: No. 7, Lang Ha Street, Ba Dinh District, Hanoi
Office hours: Monday - Friday, 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Phone number: (+84) 24 3850 5000
Fax: 84-24-3850-5010
Email: [email protected]

The US Embassy in Hanoi serves as a vital diplomatic hub, nurturing relations between the two countries. It houses various departments, including consular service, political and economic sections, and public affairs. From facilitating visa applications to organizing cultural exchanges and educational programs, the Embassy plays a pivotal role in fostering mutual understanding and friendship. It is a symbol of the enduring partnership between the United States and Vietnam, embodying the commitment to collaboration and diplomacy.

>>> Check out: Vietnam visa for US citizens: Guide to a trouble-free application process

2. The principal officers of the US Embassy in Hanoi

2.1. Ambassador to Vietnam

Mr. Marc E. Knapper, a distinguished member of the Senior Foreign Service of the U.S. Department of State, currently serves as the Ambassador to Vietnam. With extensive diplomatic experience, including key roles in Korea, Japan, and Iraq, he has earned prestigious honors such as the Secretary of State’s Distinguished Service Award.

As a polyglot fluent in Korean, Japanese, and Vietnamese, he enhances communication and understanding between nations. His impressive educational background, including studies at Princeton University and the University of Tokyo, underscores his expertise. As Ambassador, he continues to strengthen bilateral ties and promote mutual interests between the United States and Vietnam.

2.2. Deputy Ambassador to Vietnam

Mrs. Melissa A. Bishop serves as the Deputy Chief of Mission for the U.S. Mission in Vietnam. She held key positions including Consular Chief at the U.S. Embassy in Hanoi and Director for Immigration and Visa Security of the National Security Council. Her overseas assignments span locations such as Ho Chi Minh City, Kingston, Mexico City, and Seoul. With a Master of Science in National Security Strategy and a legal background, she contributes her invaluable expertise to diplomatic efforts.

3. The functions of the US Embassy in Hanoi

The US Embassy in Hanoi Vietnam houses several essential sections and offices, each dedicated to specific functions:

Political section: This section is responsible for managing US-Vietnam bilateral political relationship, engaging with governmental and non-governmental entities, media, and academia to advocate for American interests.
Consular service: Comprising the American Citizen Services and Visa Units, it assists US citizens and processes visa applications for those entering the United States temporarily or permanently.
US Commercial Service: This section supports businesses in expanding into the Vietnamese market, offering trade counseling, market intelligence, and business matchmaking.
Office of Defense Cooperation: This section coordinates security cooperation between the American military and Vietnam, managing security assistance programs and fostering military partnerships.
US Centers for Disease Control & Prevention (CDC): This section collaborates with Vietnam to strengthen public health systems and address diseases such as HIV, tuberculosis, and influenza.
Economic/ESTH Section: This section conducts economic diplomacy, reports on economic developments, promotes American business interests, and includes the Environment, Science, Technology, and Health Office.
Management Section: This section provides logistical and operational support to the Embassy, including personnel, building maintenance, fiscal management, and information system management.
Defense POW/MIA Accounting Agency: This section works to account for American personnel missing from past conflicts through joint field activities in Vietnam.
USAID: This section partners with Vietnam to advance shared priorities such as economic competitiveness, education, health, environmental sustainability, and humanitarian assistance.
Public Affairs: This section advances American foreign policy by fostering ties between the peoples of Vietnam and the United States through various programs and initiatives.
Regional security office: This section ensures the safety of American diplomatic missions, personnel, and facilities through security programs and investigations.
Office of Defense Attaché: This section coordinates military policy implementation and cooperation activities between the American military and Vietnam.
PEPFAR: This section supports Vietnam's national HIV/AIDS response through service delivery, technical assistance, and health system strengthening.

4. Services offered by the US Embassy in Hanoi

The American Citizen Services (ACS) at the US Embassy in Hanoi provides a range of vital services to US citizens residing in or visiting Vietnam:

Emergency assistance: ACS assists in various emergencies involving US citizens, including arrests, deaths, international parental child abduction, victims of crime, welfare concerns, and whereabouts issues.
Emergency financial assistance: In cases of financial emergencies, ACS helps US citizens contact family back home, arrange for money transfers, and provides information on repatriation loans if needed.
Passport and notarial services: ACS facilitates passport applications, renewals, and replacements, ensuring US citizens have proper documentation while abroad. Notarial services are also available for legal documents.
Citizenship, CRBA, adoption: ACS handles matters related to American citizenship, including transmission of citizenship, Consular Reports of Birth Abroad (CRBA) for children born to US citizens overseas, assistance with intercountry adoption, and processes for renouncing American citizenship if desired.
Federal programs: ACS provides information and assistance related to various federal programs such as Internal Revenue Service (IRS) matters, Selective Service registration, Social Security inquiries, Veterans Affairs services, and guidance on voting from abroad.
Legal and medical assistance: ACS offers resources and referrals for legal and medical assistance, connecting US citizens with appropriate services or professionals as needed.

5. Guide to getting to the US Embassy in Hanoi

From the heart of the city, reaching the American Embassy in Hanoi can be easily done on foot, by motorbike, or by car. From Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum in Ba Dinh Square, make your way to Doi Can Street, head east, then turn left onto Giang Van Minh Street. Continue until you reach Kim Ma Street, where you will turn right. Make a U-turn on Kim Ma Street and turn right onto the other side of Giang Van Minh Street. Turn right onto Giang Vo Street and continue straight onto Lang Ha Street. The Embassy will be on your left at No. 7.

If navigation seems challenging, consider using a ride-hailing service such as Xanh SM, Be, or Grab. These services will efficiently transport you to the Embassy without hassle.

>>> Check out: Flights to Vietnam from the USA: Must-know information for a long-haul trip

*The information provided in this article is for reference purposes only and may be subject to change over time. Travelers are advised to update the latest information on the official website of the US Embassy in Vietnam HERE.

In essence, the US Embassy in Hanoi Vietnam is a cornerstone of bilateral relations, offering crucial services and fostering mutual understanding between the United States and Vietnam. Through its diverse functions, it plays a vital role in promoting cooperation and prosperity, embodying the enduring partnership between the two nations.

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