Navigating Canada and UK Visas from the US: A Quick Guide
Sharing some quick insights on applying for Canadian and UK visas while you're in the United States. For those keen on exploring, this one's for you!
While the US has paused third-country visa applications, countries like Canada, the UK, Schengen states, Australia, and New Zealand still allow it. I recently found myself in New York and decided to visit the VFS office there, which handles these applications on behalf of the respective consulates. It was the perfect opportunity to submit my passport for my Canadian visa and, while I was at it, grab a coffee and complete my UK visa application online.
My Personal Canadian Visa Journey
I applied for my Canadian visa entirely online. The approval came through in about 10 days, and I was then asked to send my passport for visa stamping. I sent it off to their New York office (Los Angeles is also an option), and I had it back the very next day – super speedy! You can choose to have it mailed back to you or pick it up in person. The entire process, from submitting my online application to receiving my stamped visa, took less than two weeks.
Since my last biometrics submission for a Canadian visa was in 2018 and valid for 10 years, I didn't need to provide them again this time. This secured me a visa with an expiry date of 2028, aligning with my current biometrics validity. If I had wanted a 10-year visa or one that matched my passport's expiry, I would have needed to redo the biometrics, but that wasn't necessary for me.
My Speedy UK Visa Experience
For the UK visa, I also applied online, paid the fees, and then scheduled an appointment at the VFS office to provide my biometrics. The entire process, from application submission to receiving my visa, took exactly 7 days – incredibly fast! I was granted a 6-month multiple-entry visa, with each entry allowing a stay of up to 6 months, which is perfect for my travel needs, similar to what the US, Australia, and Canada offer.
Just a little sharing for my fellow travel enthusiasts who might be wondering about this. The waiting game is part of the adventure, and while I waited, I took the opportunity for some relaxation and even filmed a vlog or two!
For the record, I still hold Vietnamese nationality, contrary to any rumors you might have heard online. If I had a different passport, I wouldn't be going through the visa application and waiting process like this. I'm just sharing for fun and not offering any visa consultation services!
Looking forward to seeing you all in England, Scotland, Wales, Northern Ireland, the Isle of Man, Ireland, and across Europe. But first, Canada and the snow – then we'll see where the adventures take us!
Shared by: Trần Đặng Đăng Khoa
