Vietnam, with its stunning landscapes, rich culture, and vibrant cities, is a sought-after destination for Canadian travelers. Whether you’re planning to explore the bustling streets of Hanoi, the serene beaches of Da Nang, or the historical sites of Ho Chi Minh City, understanding the visa requirements is essential for a smooth entry into Vietnam. In this article, we will cover everything Canadians need to know about obtaining a Vietnam visa and the various options available.
Do Canadians Need a Visa for Vietnam?
VIETNAM VISA FOR CANADIANS Yes, Canadian citizens require a visa to enter Vietnam, regardless of whether they are visiting for tourism, business, or transit purposes. However, Vietnam provides several options for Canadian travelers to apply for a visa, such as e-Visa, Visa on Arrival, or applying through the Vietnam Embassy. The specific visa type depends on your purpose of travel and how you plan to enter the country.
Types of Vietnam Visas for Canadians
1. Vietnam e-Visa
The Vietnam e-Visa is the most convenient and popular option for Canadians planning to visit Vietnam for tourism. This electronic visa is available for citizens from over 80 countries, including Canada, and it can be applied for entirely online.
Eligibility for the e-Visa
- Available for tourism and business purposes.
- Single-entry visa that allows a stay of up to 30 days.
- Valid for travelers arriving by land, sea, or air.
How to Apply for the Vietnam e-Visa
- Visit the Official e-Visa Portal: Access the official Vietnam government website for the e-Visa application.
- Fill Out the Application Form: Complete the required details, including personal information, passport details, and travel dates.
- Upload the Necessary Documents: Upload a recent passport-sized photo and a scanned copy of your passport’s bio-data page.
- Make the Payment: The application fee for the e-Visa is around $25 USD.
- Wait for Processing: The processing time typically takes 3 business days.
- Receive the e-Visa: Once approved, the e-Visa will be sent to your email. Print it out and carry it with you during your trip to Vietnam.
Key Features of the Vietnam e-Visa
- Processing Time: Typically 3 business days.
- Validity: 30 days for a single entry.
- Cost: Around $25 USD.
2. Vietnam Visa on Arrival
Another option for Canadians traveling to Vietnam is the Visa on Arrival (VOA), available for those arriving by air at one of the international airports in Vietnam.
Eligibility for Visa on Arrival
- Tourism and business visas are available.
- The Visa on Arrival is only applicable for travelers entering Vietnam by air.
- Canadians must first apply for a Visa Approval Letter online before departure. Upon arrival, the visa is obtained from the immigration counter.
How to Apply for the Visa on Arrival
- Obtain a Visa Approval Letter: Apply for the letter from a reliable travel agency or visa service provider online.
- Receive the Approval Letter: The agency will submit your details to the Vietnamese Immigration Department, and you will receive the approval letter by email within 2-3 business days.
- Travel to Vietnam: Upon arrival at an international airport in Vietnam, present your approval letter, passport-sized photos, and the visa fee in cash.
- Receive the Visa: After processing, you will be issued a visa to enter Vietnam.
Key Features of Visa on Arrival
- Validity: Can be issued for single or multiple entries, with a stay of up to 30 days (extendable for business purposes).
- Cost: Visa fees vary, typically between $25 and $50 USD for a single-entry visa.
- Process Time: The approval letter can take 2-3 business days.
3. Vietnam Visa at the Embassy
Canadians who are planning to stay for more than 30 days, wish to apply for a multiple-entry visa, or are not eligible for the e-Visa may need to apply for a visa through the Vietnamese Embassy in Canada. The process can be a bit more time-consuming than the e-Visa or Visa on Arrival, but it’s the most reliable option for long stays.
How to Apply for a Vietnam Visa at the Embassy
- Prepare the Required Documents: This includes a completed visa application form, your passport (valid for at least 6 months), passport-sized photos, and the visa fee.
- Submit the Application: Submit your application to the Vietnam Embassy in Canada (Ottawa) or the nearest consulate.
- Processing Time: Embassy processing can take 5-7 business days or longer, depending on the visa type and urgency.
- Receive the Visa: Once approved, the visa will be affixed to your passport.
Key Features of Embassy Visa
- Validity: Can be issued for single or multiple entries.
- Duration: Valid for up to 90 days or more, depending on the visa type.
- Cost: Fees vary depending on the visa type and duration, usually ranging from $50 to $150 USD.
Documents Required for Vietnam Visa Application
VIETNAM VISA REQUIREMENTS Regardless of the visa type you choose, the following documents are typically required for Canadian citizens applying for a Vietnam visa:
- Passport: Your passport should be valid for at least 6 months beyond your intended stay.
- Passport-sized Photos: You may need to provide 1-2 photos (size 4×6 cm).
- Visa Application Form: For the embassy or visa on arrival process, you must complete the visa application form.
- Travel Itinerary: In some cases, you may be asked to provide flight details or accommodation bookings.
- Visa Fee: Payable online (for e-Visa) or in cash (for Visa on Arrival or embassy applications).
Vietnam Visa Fees for Canadians
| Visa Type | Validity | Fee (USD) |
| e-Visa | 30 days | $25 |
| Visa on Arrival (Single Entry) | 30 days | $25-$50 |
| Visa on Arrival (Multiple Entry) | 30-90 days | $50-$100 |
| Embassy Visa (Single Entry) | Up to 90 days | $50-$100 |
| Embassy Visa (Multiple Entry) | Up to 90 days | $100-$150 |
Conclusion
For Canadian citizens traveling to Vietnam, obtaining a Vietnam visa is a straightforward process with multiple options available. Whether you choose the e-Visa for a quick, hassle-free experience, the Visa on Arrival for air travel, or the embassy visa for longer stays, there’s a suitable choice for every type of traveler. Be sure to apply in advance and ensure that you meet all the necessary requirements for a seamless trip to this exciting and culturally rich country.
