As a Canadian planning to travel to Vietnam, you may have assumed that you can easily obtain a visa upon arrival at the Vietnamese airport. However, you may be surprised …
Planning a trip to Vietnam is exciting, but for many Canadians, the visa process can quickly become the most confusing part of the journey. A quick glance online reveals a maze of contradictory details—some sources claim you can simply walk into the airport and get a visa, others insist you only need a passport, and many travellers share stories about being denied boarding at airports in Canada due to missing or incorrect visa documentation. On top of that, long queues at Vietnam’s international airports can add unnecessary stress, especially when you’re unsure whether your documents are in order. This guide is designed to provide clarity, accuracy, and peace of mind by walking you through the entire Vietnam Landing Visa process from a Canadian perspective. With the right preparation, arriving in Vietnam will feel smooth and straightforward, letting you focus on what truly matters: enjoying your trip.
The Vietnam Landing Visa is a practical entry option for Canadian travellers who want a streamlined, convenient alternative to applying at an embassy or consulate. Instead of sending in your passport or attending an appointment, you can apply online for an official approval letter before leaving Canada. Once you arrive at one of Vietnam’s designated international airports, you’ll exchange that letter for the actual visa sticker issued by immigration officers.
This system is well-suited to Canadians who appreciate the flexibility of handling travel documents electronically. Everything is processed online, allowing you to keep your passport safely with you rather than mailing it away. For travellers with tight timelines or spontaneous plans, the Landing Visa offers fast and predictable processing—especially with urgent options that can deliver an approval letter in just a few hours.
Despite its convenience, there is a crucial step that Canadians must understand: you cannot board your flight without a valid approval letter. Airlines in Canada strictly follow Vietnam’s entry rules, and it’s common for travellers to be turned away at check-in if they cannot present this document. This makes the approval letter the backbone of the landing visa process and the most important item to secure before flying.
Understanding how the system works ensures that you won’t encounter unpleasant surprises at the airport. The Landing Visa isn’t something you obtain automatically upon arrival; it requires preparation ahead of time, and completing the online step correctly is what sets you up for a smooth entry into Vietnam.
Canadians applying for a Vietnam Landing Visa must have a set of essential documents ready before travelling. Preparing these in advance greatly reduces the chances of delays or complications when you arrive in Vietnam.
• A Canadian passport valid for at least six months from the date of entry: This requirement is strictly enforced. If your passport is close to expiry, renew it before applying for the visa.
• One photo measuring 4×6 cm that meets ICAO standards: Bringing a compliant photo helps speed up the process upon arrival. If you forget, you can usually have one taken at the airport for an extra fee.
• An official approval letter issued by Vietnam Immigration: This is the most important document. Without it, Canadian travellers cannot board flights to Vietnam or receive the landing visa at the airport.
• A stamping fee payable upon arrival in Vietnam: This fee covers the cost of the visa sticker placed in your passport. The amount varies depending on your visa type but typically ranges between 25 and 50 USD.
• Your travel itinerary or confirmed flight details: Immigration may request proof of departure or onward travel, depending on the visa category.
• A completed NA1 entry form: This document must be handed in at the landing visa counter. Filling it out ahead of time can save you considerable waiting time at the airport.
Having all these items ready ensures that the landing visa process is smooth and efficient.
The approval letter is the key document that unlocks the Landing Visa, and applying for it through a trusted service like VietnamImmigration.com makes the process much simpler. By following the steps below, Canadian travellers can complete the application quickly and without unnecessary stress.
Step one is to visit VietnamImmigration.com and complete the online application form. You will be asked to provide personal details, passport information, your planned arrival date, and the airport where you intend to land. The form is straightforward, and most applicants complete it in just a few minutes.
Step two involves uploading a clear scanned copy or photo of your Canadian passport. This allows the processing team to verify your information and ensure that all details match exactly. Even minor errors in spelling or passport digits can delay approval or cause problems at boarding, so having professionals review your information is a significant advantage.
Step three is choosing the processing timeframe. Standard applications usually take three to five business days to complete. However, many Canadians opt for urgent processing, especially when dealing with last-minute travel plans. Urgent approval letters can be issued within two to eight hours when needed.
Step four is receiving your approval letter by email. The letter arrives as a PDF document. It’s recommended that you print a physical copy and keep a digital version on your phone. This approval letter is required at departure gates in Canada and again upon arrival in Vietnam, so having copies in multiple forms is wise.
By following these steps, Canadian travellers can secure their approval letter efficiently and confidently.
Once you land in Vietnam, you will complete the remaining steps of the Landing Visa process. Being familiar with the airport procedure helps make your arrival stress-free.
As you enter the arrivals hall, follow the signs directing you to the “Landing Visa” or “Visa on Arrival” counter. This is where immigration officers process approval letters and issue the visa stickers. It’s important to visit this counter before proceeding to the main passport control line.
At the counter, present your approval letter, passport, NA1 form, and passport photo. The immigration officer will review your documents and verify that your details match the information in Vietnam Immigration’s database. Having everything organised will make this part of the process move more quickly.
Processing time varies depending on how many flights arrive around the same time. Canadians generally report waiting between 15 and 30 minutes, but during busy travel seasons it can take longer. Being well-prepared helps ensure that you avoid unnecessary delays.
When your name is called, return to the counter to collect your passport with the visa sticker attached. Before leaving, double-check the entry dates, visa category, and passport number listed on your visa. Once everything is confirmed, you may proceed to the main immigration line to officially enter Vietnam.
Canadians can obtain their landing visa at the following international airports in Vietnam:
It is important to note that the Landing Visa is only available for travellers arriving by air. Those entering Vietnam via land borders or sea ports must apply for a different visa type, as the approval letter cannot be used at those entry points.
For Canadians travelling on a tight timeline, the urgent approval letter service offers a reliable and efficient solution. Whether your plans changed unexpectedly or you simply need to travel sooner than anticipated, urgent processing ensures your visa is ready when your flight departs.
One of the main advantages is the speed of processing. Approval letters can be issued within just a few hours, allowing you to confirm travel arrangements without worrying about delays. This is particularly beneficial for business travellers, backpackers with flexible itineraries, or anyone who makes spontaneous travel decisions.
Another advantage is the accuracy offered by professional document review. VietnamImmigration.com checks your passport details and application thoroughly before submitting it to Vietnamese authorities. This reduces the chances of errors—one of the most common reasons travellers are refused boarding in Canada.
Additionally, the service provides 24/7 support, making it convenient for Canadians dealing with time zone differences or urgent questions. With years of experience and a strong approval rate, VietnamImmigration.com offers peace of mind for travellers who want a fast and dependable visa solution.
For Canadian travellers, the Vietnam Landing Visa offers a convenient, efficient, and flexible way to enter Vietnam. By securing the approval letter before departure, preparing the necessary documents, and understanding the airport process, you can ensure a smooth arrival experience. When time is limited or plans change quickly, urgent processing services provide an added layer of reassurance. With the right preparation and support, your Vietnam journey will start on the right foot.
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