How to get Vietnam Visa from Canada 2023?

Latest update: Jun 8th, 2023

Are you a Canadian planning to visit Vietnam Visa from Canada in 2023? You’ll need a visa to enter the country, and this comprehensive guide will help you navigate the process of obtaining it.

Who needs a Vietnam visa?

All Canadian passport holders who plan to travel to Vietnam are required to obtain a visa, regardless of their purpose of visit. There are very few exceptions to this rule, such as diplomatic or official passport holders.

What is a Vietnam visa?

A Vietnam visa is an endorsement on a passport that allows a foreign national to enter, leave, or stay in Vietnam for a specified period. The length of stay depends on the type of visa issued.

When should I apply for a Vietnam visa?

It is recommended that you apply for a Vietnam visa at least one month before your intended departure date. This gives ample time for processing and avoids any last-minute complications.

How to apply for a Vietnam visa from Canada?

There are three ways to obtain a Vietnam visa from Canada:

  1. Apply online: You can apply for a Vietnam visa online through the Vietnam Immigration Department’s website. Fill out the application form, pay the fee, and receive a visa approval letter via email. Present the letter along with your passport to get the visa stamp upon arrival in Vietnam.
  1. Apply via mail: Download the visa application form from the website of the Vietnamese embassy in Canada, fill it out, and send it along with your passport, photos, and fee to the embassy. Wait for the visa to be processed and returned by mail.
  1. Apply in-person: Visit the Vietnamese embassy or consulate in person, bring all necessary documents, fill out the application form, pay the fee, and wait for the visa to be processed.

Pros and cons of each application method

Each application method has its own pros and cons. Here is a comparison:

Online application

Pros:

  • Fast and convenient
  • No need to send passport via mail or visit embassy
  • No need to stand in line at the airport for visa stamp

Cons:

  • May require internet access and a printer
  • Additional fee for visa approval letter
  • Only applicable for those arriving by air

Mail application

Pros:

  • No need to visit embassy in-person
  • Can be done from anywhere in Canada
  • No need to stand in line at the airport for visa stamp

Cons:

  • Takes longer than online application
  • Passport must be sent via mail
  • Visa fee must be paid by bank draft or money order

In-person application

Pros:

  • Allows direct communication with embassy staff
  • Same-day processing available (with additional fee)
  • No need to wait for visa to arrive in mail

Cons:

  • Requires traveling to the embassy
  • May experience long wait times
  • incurs extra travel expenses if embassy is far from your location

Vietnam visa requirements for Canadians

When applying for a Vietnam visa, you will need to submit the following documents:

  1. Valid passport: Your passport should be valid for at least six months beyond your intended stay in Vietnam.
  1. Completed visa application form: The form can be downloaded from the Vietnamese embassy’s website.
  1. Photos: Two passport-sized photos with a white background are required.
  1. Visa fee: The fee varies depending on the type of visa and the method of application.

Alternatives to obtaining a Vietnam visa

If you’re a Canadian citizen planning a short-term stay in Vietnam, there are a few alternatives to obtaining a visa:

  1. Visa exemption: Canadians holding a valid passport can enter Vietnam without a visa for up to 15 days.
  1. E-Visa: Starting from 2021, Canadian citizens can apply for an e-visa to enter Vietnam for up to 30 days. The application process is done online, and the visa is sent via email.

Note that these options have their own restrictions and limitations. Please check the Vietnam embassy’s website for more details.

Step-by-step guide to applying for a Vietnam visa

Here is a step-by-step guide to applying for a Vietnam visa from Canada:

  1. Determine the type of visa you need based on your purpose of visit and length of stay.
  1. Choose the most appropriate application method: online, mail, or in-person.
  1. Fill out the application form accurately and completely.
  1. Submit all necessary documents and pay the fee.
  1. Wait for the visa to be processed (the processing time varies depending on the application method).
  1. Receive the visa approval letter (for online application) or visa stamp (for mail and in-person application).
  1. Travel to Vietnam and present the visa along with your passport at the airport.

Comparison of Vietnam visa types

There are several types of visas available for those traveling to Vietnam. Here’s a comparison:

Tourist visa

  • For people visiting Vietnam for tourism purposes
  • Available for single or multiple entries
  • Valid for up to 90 days

Business visa

  • For people traveling to Vietnam for business purposes
  • Available for single or multiple entries
  • Valid for up to one year

Student visa

  • For foreign students studying in Vietnam
  • Available for multiple entries
  • Valid for the duration of the course

Work visa

  • For foreigners working in Vietnam
  • Available for single or multiple entries
  • Valid for up to one year

Tips for obtaining a Vietnam visa from Canada

Here are some tips to make the process of obtaining a Vietnam visa smoother:

  1. Apply early: Start the application process at least one month before your intended departure date.
  1. Double-check all documents: Make sure all documents required are included and filled out accurately.
  1. Follow the instructions: Read the instructions carefully before applying, and follow them closely.
  1. Contact embassy for assistance: If you have any questions or concerns, contact the Vietnamese embassy or consulate for assistance.
  1. Keep alternative options in mind: Consider all available options, such as visa exemption or e-visa, before applying.

The best way to obtain a Vietnam visa from Canada

The best way to obtain a Vietnam visa from Canada depends on individual circumstances and preferences. If you’re short on time and don’t mind paying an extra fee, online application may be the best option. If you prefer not to send your passport via mail, in-person application may be more suitable. Consider all factors before making a decision.

FAQs

  1. How long does it take to process a Vietnam visa?
    Processing times vary depending on the method of application. Online application can take as little as two business days, while mail and in-person applications can take up to five business days.
  1. Can I extend my Vietnam visa?
    Yes, it is possible to extend your Vietnam visa. Contact the Vietnam Immigration Department for more information.
  1. Can I enter Vietnam without a visa?
    Canadian passport holders can enter Vietnam without a visa for up to 15 days, or apply for an e-visa for up to 30 days.
  1. What is a visa approval letter?
    A visa approval letter is a document issued by the Vietnam Immigration Department that allows travelers to pick up their visa upon arrival at the airport in Vietnam.
  1. How much does a Vietnam visa cost from Canada?
    The fee for a Vietnam visa varies depending on the type of visa and the method of application. Expect to pay between CAD 25 to CAD 200.

Conclusion

Obtaining a Vietnam visa from Canada may seem daunting, but with the right information and preparation, the process can be smooth and stress-free. Consider all available options, choose the most suitable application method, and follow instructions carefully. Happy travels!

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