Vietnam is a beautiful country with a rich culture and history that attracts millions of tourists every year. As a Canadian citizen, you will need a visa to enter Vietnam for tourism, business or other purposes. In this blog post, we will explain everything you need to know about getting a Vietnam visa for Canadian citizen.
How to apply for a Vietnam visa as a Canadian citizen
As a Canadian citizen, you have two options to apply for a Vietnam visa:
Applying at the Vietnamese embassy or consulate
You can visit the nearest Vietnamese embassy or consulate in Canada and submit your visa application in person. The process usually takes 5-7 working days, but it may vary depending on the type of visa you are applying for and the workload of the embassy/consulate. You will need to provide the following documents:
- A completed visa application form (downloadable from the embassy/consulate’s website)
- Your original passport with at least six months validity
- Two passport-size photos (4cm x 6cm)
- Visa fee (cash or money order)
Applying online for a Vietnam visa on arrival
Another option for Canadian citizens is to apply for a Vietnam visa on arrival. This means that you will obtain your visa upon arrival at one of Vietnam’s international airports. To apply online for a visa on arrival, follow these steps:
- Go to a reputable travel agency or visa service provider’s website.
- Fill out the online visa application form and pay the service fee.
- Receive an approval letter via email within 2-3 working days.
- Print out the approval letter and bring it with you when you travel to Vietnam.
- Upon arrival at the airport, present your approval letter, passport, two passport-size photos, and pay the visa stamping fee to obtain your visa.
Note that the visa on arrival option is only available for air travelers entering Vietnam through one of the following airports: Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, Da Nang or Nha Trang.
Types of visas available for Canadian citizens traveling to Vietnam
Vietnam offers several types of visas for Canadian citizens traveling to Vietnam. The most common types are:
Tourist visa (DL)
The tourist visa (DL) is valid for up to 30 days and allows Canadian citizens to enter Vietnam for tourism purposes. This visa can be extended for an additional 30 days while in Vietnam.
Business visa (DN)
The business visa (DN) is valid for up to 12 months and allows Canadian citizens to enter Vietnam for business purposes such as attending meetings, conferences, or signing contracts. This visa can also be extended while in Vietnam.
Transit visa (NG)
The transit visa (NG) is valid for up to five days and allows Canadian citizens to transit through Vietnam on their way to another destination.
Work visa (LD)
The work visa (LD) is valid for up to two years and allows Canadian citizens to work in Vietnam legally.
Student visa (DH)
The student visa (DH) is valid for up to 12 months and allows Canadian citizens to study in Vietnam at a recognized institution.
Requirements for obtaining a Vietnam visa for Canadians
The requirements for obtaining a Vietnam visa as a Canadian citizen may vary depending on the type of visa you are applying for. However, the general requirements include:
- A valid passport with at least six months validity from the date of entry into Vietnam.
- Two passport-size photos (4cm x 6cm)
- Completed visa application form
- Visa fee (varies depending on the type and duration of the visa)
Note that if you apply for a visa on arrival, you will also need to provide your approval letter issued by the travel agency or visa service provider.
Processing time and fees for a Vietnam visa for Canadians
The processing time and fees for a Vietnam visa for Canadians may vary depending on the type and duration of the visa, as well as the method of application. Here is an overview of the processing time and fees:
Applying at the Vietnamese embassy or consulate
- Processing time: 5-7 working days
- Visa fee: CAD 90 for single-entry tourist visa, CAD 170 for multiple-entry tourist visa, CAD 200 for business visa
Applying online for a Vietnam visa on arrival
- Processing time: 2-3 working days for approval letter
- Service fee: varies depending on the travel agency or visa service provider (usually between USD 10-20)
- Visa stamping fee: USD 25 for single-entry tourist visa, USD 50 for multiple-entry tourist visa, USD 95 for business visa
Note that some travel agencies or visa service providers may charge higher service fees for urgent processing or additional services such as airport fast-track service.
Options for obtaining a Vietnam visa for Canadians: embassy vs. online
Both applying at the Vietnamese embassy or online for a visa on arrival have their advantages and disadvantages. Here are some factors to consider:
Applying at the Vietnamese embassy or consulate
Advantages:
- You can submit your application in person, which may give you peace of mind.
- You can ask questions and receive guidance from embassy/consulate staff.
- You will have your visa before you travel to Vietnam.
Disadvantages:
- You need to make an appointment and visit the embassy/consulate in person, which can be time-consuming and inconvenient.
- The processing time may take longer than applying online.
- If there is no Vietnamese embassy/consulate near your location, you may need to travel a long distance.
Applying online for a Vietnam visa on arrival
Advantages:
- You can apply from anywhere with an internet connection, saving time and effort.
- The processing time is usually faster than applying at the embassy/consulate.
- You do not need to send your passport or other original documents by mail.
- The service fee is often lower than embassy/consulate fees.
Disadvantages:
- There is a risk of scams or fake websites, so you need to choose a reputable travel agency or visa service provider.
- You will need to wait until you arrive in Vietnam to obtain your visa.
- The visa on arrival option is only available for air travelers entering Vietnam through certain airports.
Ultimately, the decision of which option to choose depends on your personal preference, convenience, and urgency.
How long is a Vietnam visa valid for Canadians?
The validity of a Vietnam visa for Canadian citizens depends on the type of visa you are applying for. Here are the general rules:
- Tourist visa (DL): up to 30 days, extendable for an additional 30 days
- Business visa (DN): up to 12 months, extendable while in Vietnam
- Transit visa (NG): up to five days
- Work visa (LD): up to two years
- Student visa (DH): up to 12 months
Note that if you overstay your visa, you will be fined and may face other penalties such as deportation or being barred from entering Vietnam in the future.
What to do if your Vietnam visa application is denied as a Canadian
If your Vietnam visa application is denied as a Canadian citizen, you will need to contact the Vietnamese embassy/consulate or the travel agency/visa service provider that handled your application. Here are some possible reasons why your application may be denied:
- Incomplete or incorrect information on your application form
- Lack of supporting documents
- Criminal record or other security concerns
- Previous violation of Vietnamese immigration laws
In some cases, you may be able to appeal the decision or provide additional documentation to support your application. However, keep in mind that the final decision rests with the Vietnamese authorities.
Visa on arrival option for Canadians traveling to Vietnam
The visa on arrival option is a convenient way for Canadian citizens to obtain their Vietnam visa upon arrival at one of Vietnam’s international airports. However, there are some important things to know before choosing this option:
- You can only apply for a visa on arrival if you are traveling to Vietnam by air.
- You will need to obtain an approval letter from a reputable travel agency or visa service provider before you depart for Vietnam.
- You will need to bring two passport-size photos and pay the visa stamping fee in cash (USD) upon arrival.
- The visa on arrival option may not be suitable for last-minute or urgent travel plans, as it takes 2-3 working days to receive the approval letter.
Tips for Immediate Vietnam Visa for Canadian Citizens 2023
If you are a Canadian citizen and need to obtain a Vietnam visa immediately, there are a few things you can do to expedite the process:
- Apply online through a reputable visa service provider. This is the fastest way to apply for a Vietnam visa, as you will receive your approval letter within 2-3 business days.
- Choose the “emergency visa” processing option. This will incur an additional fee, but your visa will be processed and approved much faster.
- Have all of your required documents ready before you start the application process. This includes a copy of your passport, a passport photo, and a copy of your flight itinerary.
- Be clear about your travel plans in your application. Include your arrival and departure dates, as well as your intended purpose of travel.
- Respond promptly to any requests for additional information from the visa service provider.
- Be patient. Even with expedited processing, it may take up to 5 business days to receive your visa approval letter.
Here are some additional tips for getting an immediate Vietnam visa:
- Apply directly at the Vietnam Embassy or Consulate in Canada. This is the most expensive option, but it is also the fastest. You can typically receive your visa within 24 hours.
- Use a visa agent that specializes in Vietnam visas. Visa agents can help you with the application process and ensure that all of your documents are in order.
- Pay the visa fee using a credit card. This will expedite the processing of your application.
- Be prepared to answer questions from the immigration officer at the airport of arrival. Be ready to explain your travel plans and why you need an immediate visa.
Here are some common mistakes to avoid when applying for an immediate Vietnam visa:
- Submitting incomplete or inaccurate information on the application form.
- Failing to provide all of the required documents.
- Waiting too long to apply for the visa.
- Using a visa service provider that is not reputable.
By following these tips, you can increase your chances of obtaining an immediate Vietnam visa as a Canadian citizen.
FAQs about Vietnam visa for Canadian citizens
- Q: Do I need a visa to enter Vietnam as a Canadian citizen?
A: Yes, Canadian citizens need a visa to enter Vietnam for tourism, business, or other purposes.
- Q: Can I apply for a Vietnam visa online as a Canadian citizen?
A: Yes, you can apply for a Vietnam visa on arrival online through a reputable travel agency or visa service provider.
- Q: What are the types of visas available for Canadian citizens traveling to Vietnam?
A: The most common types are tourist visa, business visa, transit visa, work visa, and student visa.
- Q: How long is a Vietnam visa valid for Canadians?
A: The validity depends on the type of visa, but ranges from 30 days to12 months or more, depending on the visa type.
- Q: Can I extend my Vietnam visa while in Vietnam?
A: Yes, for certain visa types such as tourist visas and business visas, you can extend your stay by applying for an extension at the immigration office in Vietnam.
- Q: What should I do if I overstay my Vietnam visa?
A: If you overstay your visa, you will be subject to fines and penalties. It is advised to contact the nearest immigration office and handle the situation accordingly.
- Q: Is it possible to obtain a visa on arrival for land or sea entry into Vietnam?
A: No, the visa on arrival option is only available for air travelers entering Vietnam through designated airports. For land or sea entry, you need to apply for a visa in advance at the embassy or consulate.
- Q: How far in advance should I apply for a Vietnam visa?
A: It is recommended to apply for your visa at least several weeks before your intended travel date to allow for processing time and any unforeseen delays.
- Q: Can I use a Vietnam visa for multiple entries?
A: Yes, depending on the type of visa you have obtained, you may be eligible for multiple entries during the validity period. Check the specific visa requirements and restrictions for more information.
- Q: Do I need vaccinations before traveling to Vietnam?
A: It is generally recommended to check with your healthcare provider or travel clinic for any required or recommended vaccinations before traveling to Vietnam.
In conclusion, obtaining a Vietnam visa as a Canadian citizen involves understanding the different types of visas available, fulfilling the necessary requirements, and choosing the appropriate application method. Whether you opt for applying at the embassy or consulate or through the visa on arrival option, make sure to plan ahead, prepare all the required documents, and comply with immigration regulations for a smooth entry into Vietnam.
