Vietnam Visa for Canadian Citizens Requirements, Types, Process, and More

Learn about the requirements, types, application process, duration, fees, entry and exit requirements, extension, and renewal of Vietnam Visa for Canadian citizens. Get valuable tips for a smooth Vietnam Visa application process.

Requirements for Vietnam Visa for Canadian citizens

For Canadian citizens to obtain a visa for Vietnam, the following requirements typically apply:

1. Valid Passport: Your passport should have at least six months of validity remaining from the date of entry into Vietnam.

2. Visa Application Form: Fill out the visa application form accurately and completely. You can usually obtain this form from the Vietnamese embassy or consulate in Canada or through their official website.

3. Passport Photos: Provide two recent passport-sized photos (usually 4cm x 6cm) that meet the specified guidelines regarding background color, size, and appearance.

4. Visa Fee: Pay the required visa processing fee. The amount may vary depending on the type of visa and processing time you choose.

5. Visa Approval Letter: Apply for either an e-visa or pre-arranged visa approval letter. This depends on the purpose and duration of your visit. The approval letter is typically obtained through a Vietnamese travel agency or an online visa service.

6. Entry Requirements: Upon arrival in Vietnam, present your valid passport, visa approval letter (or e-visa), completed entry-exit form, and any other required documents to the immigration officers.

It’s important to note that visa requirements can change, so it’s advisable to check with the nearest Vietnamese embassy or consulate in Canada or refer to the official website of the Vietnamese Ministry of Foreign Affairs for the most up-to-date information before applying.

Types of Vietnam Visa available for Canadian citizens

There are several types of visas available for Canadian citizens traveling to Vietnam:

1. Tourist Visa: This visa is suitable for Canadian tourists visiting Vietnam for leisure or sightseeing purposes. It allows a stay of up to 30 days and can be extended if needed.

2. Business Visa: This visa is for Canadian citizens traveling to Vietnam for business-related purposes, such as attending meetings, conferences, or exploring business opportunities. It typically allows a longer stay compared to the tourist visa.

3. Work Visa: If Canadian citizens intend to work in Vietnam, they will need a work visa sponsored by an employer in Vietnam. The specific requirements and procedures vary depending on the nature and duration of employment.

4. Student Visa: Canadian students planning to study in Vietnam should apply for a student visa. They will need to provide proof of enrollment in an educational institution in Vietnam to obtain this visa.

5. Diplomatic and Official Visa: This type of visa is issued to Canadian citizens who hold diplomatic or official passports and are traveling to Vietnam for diplomatic or official purposes. It requires prior arrangements through the relevant authorities.

It’s important to note that visa requirements and regulations can change, so it’s advisable to check with the Embassy or Consulate of Vietnam for the most up-to-date information before planning your trip.

Vietnam Visa application process for Canadians

The Vietnam visa application process for Canadians typically involves the following steps:

1. Determine the type of visa: Canadians can apply for a tourist or business visa to visit Vietnam. The tourist visa allows for leisure travel, while the business visa is suitable for work-related purposes.

2. Choose the application method: There are two options to apply for a Vietnam visa as a Canadian citizen. You can either apply online for an e-visa or submit your application in person at the nearest Embassy or Consulate of Vietnam.

3. Online application (e-visa):

1. Visit the official website of the Vietnamese government’s immigration department.
2. Fill out the required application form with accurate personal information.
3. Upload a digital passport photo and a scanned copy of your passport’s bio page.
4. Pay the processing fee online using a valid credit/debit card.
5. Once your application is approved, download and print the e-visa approval letter.
   4. In-person application:

1. Contact the nearest Embassy or Consulate of Vietnam in Canada to inquire about the specific requirements and document checklist for your visa type.
2. Complete the visa application form provided by the Embassy/Consulate.
3. Gather the necessary documents, which may include a passport-sized photo, a completed application form, your original passport, and any supporting documents requested.
4. Submit your application in person at the Embassy or Consulate, along with the applicable fee.
5. Wait for the processing time specified by the Embassy/Consulate. Once approved, collect your passport with the visa stamp.

5. Entry into Vietnam: Upon arrival in Vietnam, present your passport with the visa stamp or e-visa approval letter to the immigration officers for verification.

It is important to note that visa requirements and processes can change over time. Therefore, it is advisable to consult the official website of the Embassy or Consulate of Vietnam in Canada or the Vietnamese government’s immigration department for the most up-to-date and accurate information before applying.

Duration and validity of Vietnam Visa for Canadians

The duration and validity of a Vietnam visa for Canadians depend on the type of visa obtained:

1. Tourist Visa: Typically allows for a single entry or multiple entries within a specified period, such as 30 days or 90 days. The validity can range from one month to one year.

2. Business Visa: Similar to the tourist visa, it can have a duration of 30 days or 90 days, with single or multiple entries. The validity can also vary from one month to one year.

3. Work Visa: Validity is usually aligned with the length of the work contract or assignment in Vietnam. The duration can be as short as three months or extend up to one year or more.

It’s important to note that visa policies and regulations may change over time. It’s recommended to check with the Embassy or Consulate of Vietnam or refer to official government sources for the most up-to-date and accurate information regarding the specific duration and validity of Vietnam visas for Canadians.

Vietnam Visa fees for Canadian passport holders

The visa fees for Canadian passport holders applying for a Vietnam visa vary depending on the type of visa and the duration of stay. As of my knowledge cutoff in September 2021, here are the general fees:

1. Tourist Visa:
   • Single-entry visa (valid for 30 days): Approximately $25-50 USD.
   • Multiple-entry visa (valid for 30 to 90 days): Approximately $50-135 USD.

2. Business Visa:
   • Single-entry visa (valid for 30 days): Approximately $80-135 USD.
   • Multiple-entry visa (valid for 30 to 90 days): Approximately $135-460 USD.

Please note that these fees are subject to change, and it is recommended to check with the Embassy or Consulate of Vietnam or a reliable visa service provider for the most up-to-date information before applying for a visa.

Vietnam Visa on arrival vs. Embassy/Consulate application for Canadians

Vietnam Visa on Arrival is a convenient option for Canadians traveling to Vietnam. It allows you to apply for a visa online and receive an approval letter before your trip. Upon arrival at a Vietnamese airport, you will present this letter along with your passport, pay the visa stamping fee, and receive your visa.

Embassy/Consulate application involves visiting the Vietnamese embassy or consulate in Canada to submit your visa application. You will need to provide the required documents, such as your passport, application form, and supporting materials. After processing, you can collect your visa from the embassy/consulate.

The main differences between the two options are convenience and processing time. Visa on Arrival eliminates the need to visit the embassy or consulate in person, saving time and effort. The approval letter can be obtained quickly online, usually within 1-2 working days. However, the visa can only be obtained upon arrival in Vietnam.

On the other hand, applying through the embassy or consulate allows you to have the visa in hand before your departure. The processing time may vary, typically taking a few days to weeks, depending on the embassy/consulate’s workload.

In summary, Visa on Arrival offers convenience and a faster processing time, while Embassy/Consulate application provides the advantage of having the visa before your travel. Choose the option that best suits your preferences and travel plans.

Documents needed for Vietnam Visa application by Canadians

For a Vietnam visa application, Canadians typically need the following documents:

1. Passport: A valid passport with at least six months of validity remaining beyond the intended departure date from Vietnam.

2. Visa Application Form: Fill out an application form online or obtain a printed copy from the Vietnamese embassy or consulate in Canada.

3. Passport-sized Photos: Provide two recent passport-sized photos (2×2 inches) with a plain white background.

4. Visa Approval Letter: Obtain a visa approval letter issued by the Vietnamese Immigration Department. This letter is usually arranged through a travel agency or an online visa service before arrival.

5. Entry and Exit Requirements: Prepare details of your travel itinerary, including entry and exit dates, flight information, and accommodation reservations.

6. Visa Stamping Fee: Set aside cash to pay the visa stamping fee upon arrival at the Vietnamese airport. The fee amount depends on the visa type and duration.

7. Additional Documents: There may be additional requirements depending on the type of visa you’re applying for, such as a business invitation letter or proof of onward travel.

Please note that visa requirements can change, so it’s recommended to consult the official website of the Vietnamese embassy or consulate in Canada for the most up-to-date and accurate information regarding the visa application process.

Extension and renewal of Vietnam Visa for Canadian travelers

To extend or renew a Vietnam visa for Canadian travelers, you can follow these steps:

1. Visit the nearest Vietnam embassy or consulate in Canada or any other country where there is a diplomatic mission of Vietnam.

2. Submit the required documents, which usually include your passport (valid for at least six months beyond the intended stay), completed application form, passport-sized photos, and the visa extension/renewal fee. Additional documents may be required depending on the embassy/consulate.

3. Provide a valid reason for your visa extension/renewal, such as continuing tourism, business activities, or family visits.

4. Wait for the processing period, which can vary depending on the embassy/consulate. It’s advisable to apply well in advance to avoid any last-minute issues.

5. Once your visa extension/renewal is approved, collect your passport from the embassy/consulate or have it mailed back to you, if applicable.

Note: It’s important to check with the specific embassy/consulate regarding their requirements and procedures, as they can vary slightly. Additionally, it’s recommended to consult official government sources or contact the embassy/consulate directly for the most up-to-date and accurate information.

Entry and exit requirements for Canadian nationals visiting Vietnam

Canadian nationals visiting Vietnam are required to have a valid passport with a minimum validity of six months beyond their intended stay. They must obtain a visa in advance or apply for an e-visa online before traveling to Vietnam.

For travelers entering Vietnam by air, they can apply for a visa on arrival through a Vietnamese travel agency or use the e-visa system. The visa on arrival requires pre-approval from the Immigration Department, and applicants must provide their personal details and travel information in advance.

Alternatively, Canadian citizens can apply for an e-visa directly through the Vietnam Immigration Department’s official website. The e-visa is a single-entry visa valid for up to 30 days and requires applicants to submit their personal information and a digital photo.

It’s important to note that visa requirements may vary for different types of travel, such as business visits or longer stays. Therefore, it is advisable to check with the nearest Vietnamese embassy or consulate or consult official government sources for the most up-to-date and accurate information on entry and exit requirements for Canadian nationals visiting Vietnam.

Tips for a smooth Vietnam Visa application process for Canadians

Prepare the following for a smooth Vietnam visa application process for Canadians:

1. Determine the visa type: Check the Vietnamese embassy or consulate website to identify the appropriate visa category for your purpose of visit (tourism, business, etc.).

2. Gather required documents: Prepare necessary documents such as a valid passport (with at least six months validity), completed visa application form, passport-sized photos, and any additional documents specific to your visa type.

3. Choose the application method: Decide whether to apply in person at the embassy/consulate or opt for an online application through the official e-visa system.

4. Complete the application accurately: Fill out the visa application form carefully, providing accurate and up-to-date information. Mistakes or omissions may delay the processing time or result in rejection.

5. Submit your application: Submit your application along with the required documents to the designated authority. If applying in person, ensure you have all the necessary paperwork. For online applications, follow the instructions on the e-visa website.

6. Pay the visa fee: Check the current visa fee and make sure to include the correct payment method, whether it’s cash, credit card, or money order. Ensure you have enough funds to cover the fee.

7. Allow sufficient processing time: Begin the visa application process well in advance to allow for any unexpected delays. Typically, processing times can vary from a few days to several weeks, depending on the visa type and method of application.

8. Track your application: If available, use the tracking service provided by the embassy/consulate or e-visa system to monitor the progress of your application.

9. Collect your visa: Once your application is approved, collect your visa from the embassy/consulate if you applied in person. For e-visas, print out the approval letter and present it upon arrival in Vietnam.

10. Familiarize yourself with entry requirements: Before traveling to Vietnam, review the specific entry requirements for Canadians and ensure you have all necessary documents (e.g., visa, passport, travel insurance) to avoid any complications at the border.

Remember to consult the official website of the Vietnamese embassy/consulate or the e-visa system for the most up-to-date and accurate information regarding the visa application process.