Vietnam has become an increasingly popular destination for global business, innovation, and professional exchange. As the country continues to host a growing number of international conferences, corporate meetings, and industry expos in cities like Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, and Da Nang, many Canadian professionals are looking to seize new opportunities by attending events on the ground. If you’re a Canadian citizen planning to take part in a business event in Vietnam in 2025, one of your first steps should be understanding the visa process. This guide outlines everything you need to knowâfrom choosing the right visa to submitting your applicationâso you can travel with confidence and focus on your business objectives.
Canadian passport holders traveling to Vietnam for professional purposes such as conferences, meetings, or seminars typically choose between two visa types: the Business Visa (DN1 or DN2) and the Electronic Visa (E-Visa). Both options are valid for short-term professional travel, but they differ in terms of eligibility, processing time, and application method.
The Business Visa is designed for travelers who are invited by a Vietnamese company or organization. If your itinerary involves corporate meetings, private consultations, or direct business engagements with local entities, this visa may be the best fit. In most cases, you’ll need a formal invitation letter and will apply either through the Vietnamese embassy or with assistance from a licensed visa agency.
The E-Visa, on the other hand, offers a more streamlined and flexible process. This option is ideal for Canadians attending open conferences, industry trade shows, or speaking engagements. As of the latest policy update, Vietnam allows E-Visas with a validity of up to 90 days and options for single or multiple entries. The entire process is completed online, making it a convenient choice for travelers with simpler needs.
While a business invitation isnât strictly required for the E-Visa, submitting a letter of invitationâespecially for professional eventsâcan reinforce the legitimacy of your application and help reduce approval time.
To ensure a smooth application, Canadians should gather and prepare the necessary documentation in advance. The specific paperwork required depends on which visa type youâre applying for, but the essentials are quite straightforward.
First, make sure your Canadian passport is valid for at least six months from the date you plan to enter Vietnam. Itâs also advisable to have at least two blank pages available for visa stamps, regardless of whether youâre applying for an E-Visa or a business visa through the embassy.
For business visa applicants, a formal letter of invitation is typically required. This letter should be written on official company letterhead and include your full name, passport number, reason for travel, the name of the event or meeting, dates, and location. For events such as conferences or trade shows, a registration confirmation or an official agenda may also support your application.
If applying for an E-Visa, youâll need to upload a scanned copy of your passportâs photo page and a passport-style digital photo. Make sure the photo meets international standardsâclear background, no glasses, and a centered headshot. Double-check the file format and size requirements before submission to avoid technical rejections.
The Vietnamese government has significantly simplified the visa process for Canadian citizens in recent years. Depending on your travel timeline, visa needs, and documentation, there are a few different ways to complete your application.
đ Option 1: Apply for an E-Visa Online
This is the most accessible method for most Canadian travelers. You can complete the process through the official Vietnam Immigration website or a trusted third-party visa service. After submitting your application, uploading documents, and paying the fee, the E-Visa is typically issued within 3 to 7 working days. Once approved, youâll receive a PDF visa that you must print and bring with you when entering Vietnam.
đ Option 2: Apply for a Business Visa via the Embassy or a Visa Agent
If you plan to stay in Vietnam longer or require multiple entries beyond what the E-Visa offers, consider applying for a DN1 or DN2 visa through the Vietnamese Embassy in Canada or via a recognized visa facilitator. This process involves submitting more detailed paperwork, including your invitation letter and supporting documents. Processing times range from 7 to 10 business days, depending on the embassyâs current workload.
đ Option 3: Use a Professional Visa Service for Fast Processing
For those with limited time or unfamiliar with visa procedures, using a visa agency is a smart option. Reputable services like Vietnam Immigration Services can handle everything on your behalfâreviewing documents, filling out applications, and ensuring fast approval. Some offer expedited service in as little as 2 to 8 hours, perfect for urgent business trips or last-minute event invites.
Even after obtaining your visa, there are a few important considerations to keep in mind to ensure your entry into Vietnam goes smoothly and professionally.
When speaking with immigration officers upon arrival, be clear and honest about the purpose of your visit. Itâs crucial that your visa type matches your activity in the country. For example, if youâve received a business visa, donât tell border officials you’re visiting as a touristâit could cause confusion or even denial of entry.
Double-check your visaâs accuracy before you fly. Confirm that your name, passport number, visa type, and validity dates are all correct. Any inconsistencies can lead to delays at the airport or complications during your stay.
Carry printed copies of your visa (if it’s electronic), invitation letters, hotel bookings, return flight confirmation, and any relevant conference documentation. These documents may not always be requested, but having them on hand helps demonstrate the purpose and structure of your trip.
Finally, keep an eye on your visa expiration date. If your business extends beyond the visaâs validity, youâll need to apply for an extension in advance. Overstaying a visaâeven by a few daysâcan lead to penalties or future travel restrictions.
If youâre short on time or just want peace of mind, using a professional visa agency is a reliable solution. For Canadian business travelers, expert visa services not only simplify the paperwork but also ensure fast turnaround and compliance with Vietnamâs immigration rules.
One highly recommended platform is Vietnam Immigration Services. Their team assists Canadians in securing visas for business events, conferences, and trade missions. Here’s what they offer:
â Express visa processingâapproval in 2 to 8 hours available
â No invitation letter needed for certain E-Visa applications
â Only basic documents requiredâpassport scan and digital photo
â Full support in English, available 24/7
â Transparent money-back guarantee if your visa is not approved
With dedicated support and a proven track record, this service is ideal for professionals who want to focus on their eventânot on visa forms.
Whether youâre a Canadian entrepreneur, corporate representative, or guest speaker, attending a business event in Vietnam is a great opportunity to grow your network and explore a thriving economic landscape. With updated visa options and support services at your fingertips, getting your paperwork in order has never been easier.
Donât let administrative tasks slow you down. Apply early or rely on a trusted visa provider so you can travel to Vietnam confidently and get straight to business.
đ Start your application today: https://www.vietnamimmigration.com/apply-vietnam-visa/
