From the buzzing energy of Hanoi’s Old Quarter to the tranquil beaches of Phu Quoc, Vietnam has steadily become a top destination for Canadians in search of culture, cuisine, and stunning scenery. But before boarding your flight, there’s one essential step every Canadian traveler must take: securing the right Vietnam travel visa. With evolving entry rules and different types of visa options available in 2025, the process can be confusing—especially if you’re relying on outdated or conflicting information online. This detailed guide walks you through everything you need to know about how Canadians can apply for a Vietnam travel visa in 2025. Whether you’re planning a backpacking adventure, a family vacation, or a luxurious resort getaway, we’ve got the visa advice you need to get started hassle-free.
As of 2025, Canadian passport holders are required to obtain a valid visa before entering Vietnam. Unlike some neighboring countries in Southeast Asia, Vietnam does not currently offer visa-free entry to Canadian citizens, regardless of travel purpose or duration. That means even a short holiday or casual visit will require a pre-approved travel visa.
A Vietnam travel visa is designed specifically for tourism-related visits—leisure travel, sightseeing, beach holidays, or cultural exploration. It is distinct from visas used for business, work, or study, and applying for the wrong visa could result in rejection at the border or during your application process. That’s why it’s crucial to ensure that your chosen visa type aligns with your intended activities in Vietnam.
Travel visas are typically short-term and easy to apply for. However, because there are multiple formats (electronic, on arrival, or embassy-based), choosing the right route can save you time, money, and unnecessary paperwork. Let’s dive into the visa options available for Canadians in 2025.
Canadian travelers can choose from three primary types of travel visas when planning a visit to Vietnam: the e-visa, the visa on arrival, and the traditional visa issued through an embassy or consulate. Each has its own advantages depending on how you plan to travel and how much lead time you have before departure.
The e-visa is the most convenient option for most Canadians. It allows for a single or multiple entries and is valid for up to 90 days. The application is fully online—you simply upload your passport scan, a recent photo, and personal travel details. Once approved, you’ll receive your e-visa via email. It’s accepted at nearly all major international airports and many land and sea ports.
Alternatively, you can opt for the visa on arrival (VOA) if you prefer receiving your visa after landing in Vietnam. This method involves pre-registering online to receive an “approval letter” which you’ll present upon arrival at a Vietnamese airport. You’ll then submit your passport and pay a stamping fee to receive the physical visa. This option is only valid at specific international airports and is not available for land or sea entries.
Lastly, Canadians who prefer handling paperwork in person—or who may not feel comfortable with online submissions—can apply for a travel visa through the Vietnamese embassy or consulate. Though more time-consuming, this route may be preferable for travelers visiting regions of Vietnam accessible only by land or sea, or for those with complex itineraries.
Before applying, make sure your Canadian passport is valid for at least six months beyond your intended date of entry into Vietnam. This is a mandatory requirement for all visa applicants. Your passport should also have at least one blank page for visa stamping (if applying for a VOA or embassy visa).
For an e-visa, you’ll need a scanned copy of your passport’s information page and a recent digital photo with a white background. All information must be entered exactly as shown in your passport—including full name, date of birth, and passport number—otherwise your visa may be denied or delayed.
In addition to personal documents, you may be asked to provide proof of accommodation, return or onward flights, and your proposed travel itinerary. While not always mandatory, these documents can help support your application and ease your entry at immigration checkpoints.
Applicants must not have any criminal record or fall under the list of individuals prohibited from entering Vietnam. Make sure to use an authorized visa service to avoid unreliable websites or fraudulent providers.
The e-visa process is straightforward and can be completed entirely online from Canada. To begin, visit the official and trusted visa application portal 👉 https://www.vietnamimmigration.com/apply-vietnam-visa/. You’ll be prompted to fill out your personal details, upload your documents, and select your intended entry and exit points.
After submitting the form, you’ll pay the visa processing fee using a secure payment method. Most applications are processed within three to five business days, though expedited services are available for travelers needing their visas faster—sometimes within just a few hours.
Once your application is approved, your e-visa will be delivered to your email. Print a physical copy and keep it with your travel documents. You’ll need to present it alongside your passport when passing through immigration upon arrival in Vietnam.
This option is ideal for Canadians arriving at international airports in Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, Da Nang, and other popular tourist hubs. It’s user-friendly, efficient, and the most commonly chosen visa method for Canadian tourists.
If you decide to apply for a visa on arrival, the first step is to request an approval letter online before your trip. You can do this through a trusted visa service provider 👉 https://www.vietnamimmigration.com/apply-vietnam-visa/. The approval letter typically takes 2–5 business days to process, although urgent processing is also available.
Once you receive the approval letter, print it out and prepare two passport-sized photos. Upon landing at a Vietnamese international airport, proceed to the Visa on Arrival desk where you’ll submit the letter, your passport, photos, and a completed entry form. You’ll also pay the stamping fee in cash to receive your visa label.
This process is relatively quick and straightforward, but only works at select airports. It’s not valid at land borders or seaports. For Canadians planning multi-destination trips or arriving by land, the e-visa or embassy visa is a better choice.
Still, for those flying directly into cities like Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh City, the VOA option remains a flexible and viable method for getting your travel visa.
Before you fly, double-check that your visa details match your passport exactly. Even small mistakes can cause problems at the border. Print extra copies of your visa, travel insurance, and accommodation bookings in case they’re requested by immigration officers.
Keep your passport, visa, and supporting documents in a secure and easily accessible place in your carry-on. You may be asked for them multiple times, especially at connecting points or layovers.
To make the immigration process faster and more comfortable, consider using a Fast Track service at major Vietnamese airports. These services help expedite document verification and baggage claim, especially helpful if you’re traveling with family or arriving during busy periods.
Lastly, only use verified services when applying for your Vietnam travel visa. We recommend 👉 https://www.vietnamimmigration.com/apply-vietnam-visa/ — a professional, English-language platform with a track record of reliability and support for Canadian applicants.
Choosing the right visa provider makes all the difference in ensuring a smooth journey. Our visa service has supported thousands of Canadians in securing approved Vietnam visas quickly and reliably. With a 100% approval rate and a full money-back guarantee, you can apply with peace of mind.
Our expert team reviews all applications before submission to catch common mistakes and ensure every detail is accurate. We also offer express processing, with turnaround times as fast as 2 hours for urgent trips.
You’ll receive 24/7 customer support from visa experts who understand Canadian travel needs. Whether this is your first trip to Vietnam or your fifth, our platform provides the fastest and most dependable visa solution for Canadians in 2025.
Apply now 👉 https://www.vietnamimmigration.com/apply-vietnam-visa/
A Vietnam travel visa is your key to unlocking unforgettable experiences—from trekking in Sapa to cruising through Ha Long Bay. With the right visa strategy and a bit of planning, Canadians can enter Vietnam with ease and confidence. Follow this guide, choose the visa path that best suits your travel style, and you’ll be well on your way to an adventure of a lifetime in 2025.
