Urgent Vietnam Visa Canadians

Canada is not on Vietnam’s standard visa-exemption list. As a result, Canadian passport holders generally need a valid Vietnam visa (or e-visa) before travelling, regardless of whether the trip is for tourism, business, family visit, investment, or work.


Do Canadians need a visa for Vietnam?

Yes. Canadian citizens are required to obtain a Vietnam visa prior to entry in most cases. Travelling without a valid visa (or using the wrong visa type) can lead to refusal of entry and other administrative penalties.

A Vietnam visa is an official permission for Canadian travellers to enter Vietnam lawfully, stay for the approved duration, and carry out the purpose stated on the visa.


Common Vietnam visa types for Canadian citizens

The visa type you need depends on your purpose of travel. Below is a practical reference table for common categories:

Purpose of entry Visa type Typical route
Tourism DL / EV (e-Visa) Vietnam e-Visa or Embassy
Business / Commercial DN1, DN2 Embassy or Visa on Arrival (approval letter)
Investment DT1 – DT4 Embassy with sponsor
Family visit / Marriage TT Embassy or Visa on Arrival
Long-term employment LĐ1, LĐ2 Embassy (work permit required)

Vietnam visa options for Canadian citizens

Canadians typically use one of the following application methods, depending on trip urgency and visa type:

Method Best suited for What to expect
Vietnam e-Visa (online) Tourism and many short trips Online submission; up to 90 days; single or multiple entry (if available/selected); print the e-visa for travel.
Visa sticker via Embassy/Consulate Work, investment, long-term or special-purpose cases Document-based submission; processing time varies; requirements depend on purpose and supporting paperwork.
Visa on Arrival (VOA) Air travellers using an approval-letter process Approval letter required before boarding; visa sticker collected at Vietnam international airports.
Emergency processing Time-sensitive departures and urgent correction cases Expedited handling through urgent visa services; availability depends on working hours and document readiness.

Option 1: Vietnam e-Visa (most convenient for Canadians)

The Vietnam e-Visa is the simplest route for many Canadian travellers, especially for tourism and short stays.

- Validity: up to 90 days

- Entry: single or multiple (where applicable)

- Online application (no in-person visit required)

- Standard processing: typically 3–5 business days

- Emergency processing: 2–24 hours (via urgent visa service)

- Government fees (commonly listed): USD 25 (single) / USD 50 (multiple)

Official application portal: https://evisa.xuatnhapcanh.gov.vn

Note: The e-Visa is only valid for entry/exit at eligible international checkpoints.


Option 2: Visa sticker at the Vietnamese Embassy/Consulate

This option is often used when the traveller needs a specific visa purpose (work, investment, long-term stay) or additional official guidance.

- Suitable for: work, investment, long-term stays, complex documentation

- Typical processing window: around 5–7 business days (varies by case)


Option 3: Visa on Arrival (VOA) (air entry only)

Visa on Arrival can be used by Canadian travellers who fly into Vietnam and have a pre-approved entry approval letter in advance.

- Air travellers only

- Approval letter required before boarding

- Visa sticker issued at Vietnam international airports upon arrival


Option 4: Emergency Vietnam visa for Canadian citizens

If you are travelling on short notice, urgent visa processing may be available through licensed visa agencies.

- 2 business days (Mon–Fri): ~130 CAD

- 1 business day (Mon–Fri): ~144 CAD

- Same day (4–8 hours): ~167 CAD

- Super urgent (2–3 hours): ~247 CAD

Application form: https://www.urgentvietnamvisa.com/apply.html

Note: Emergency services are typically not available on weekends or Vietnamese public holidays.


Required documents (typical checklist for Canadians)

- Original passport valid at least 6 months

- Scanned passport bio page

- One 4×6 cm passport photo (white background)

- Completed visa application form (online or paper, depending on route)


Embassy application in Canada

For long-term visas or special-purpose visas, Canadian residents may apply through Vietnam’s mission in Canada.

Embassy of Vietnam in Canada
470 Wilbrod Street, Ottawa, ON K1N 6M8
Tel: +1 (613) 236-0772
https://www.vietem-ca.com

- Typical processing time: 5–7 business days (varies by case and workload)


Important notes for Canadian travellers

- Ensure your passport is valid for at least 6 months from your intended entry date.

- Your visa information must match your passport exactly.

- Do not work or invest on a tourist visa.

- Keep printed copies of your e-Visa or approval letter for check-in and arrival procedures.


FAQ

Are Canadian citizens visa-exempt for Vietnam?

No. Canadians generally need a visa (or e-visa) before travelling to Vietnam.

Can Canadians enter Vietnam multiple times?

Yes, if you obtain a multiple-entry visa (where applicable/available for your visa type).

Can Canadians use Visa on Arrival?

Yes, but only for air travel and only with a pre-approved approval letter before departure.

Is Vietnam e-Visa extendable?

Tourist e-Visas are generally not extendable. Extensions (if available) depend on visa type and current rules.

What if I overstay in Vietnam?

Overstays may result in fines and other penalties depending on the duration and circumstances.