If I have to return to Vietnam to work, which is better: applying for a conditional 2-year US green card or applying for Canadian permanent residency?
A question we frequently receive from businesspeople who often work in Vietnam, as well as artists who often return to Vietnam for performances, is whether it's better to apply for a 2-year conditional US green card or Canadian permanent residency (PR).
To help you make a better decision, here is a comprehensive comparison between the US Green Card and Canadian PR, focusing on the advantages of maintaining residency when working extensively in Vietnam:
1. Regarding residency requirements
PR Canada – More flexibility for entrepreneurs
| Request | Detail |
|---|---|
| Minimum residency | 730 days within 5 years |
| Is it possible to live outside of Canada? | ✅ Yes, if traveling with a spouse who is a Canadian citizen or works for a Canadian company operating overseas. |
| Are working days abroad counted? | ✅ Yes, if you can prove you are working for a genuinely registered Canadian company. |
| Permanent residency check | Mainly when renewing a card or re-entering the country after a long absence. |
➡️ In other words: An entrepreneur can set up a Canadian company and then go to Vietnam to work , and still be considered a resident if they maintain valid documentation → very suitable for busy people in Vietnam.
US Green Card – Stricter requirements and higher risks
| Request | Detail |
|---|---|
| Minimum residency | There is no specific number of days required, but there must be an intention to reside permanently in the United States. |
| Absent for more than 6 months | You may be suspected by CBP of abandoning your green card. |
| Absent for more than 12 months | A green card is invalidated if a Reentry Permit is not obtained beforehand. |
| Work for an American company overseas. | ❌ Not counted as residing |
➡️ This means: If you frequently stay in Vietnam for more than 6 months , you may be suspected of abandoning your green card and could easily have it revoked upon your return to the US.
2. Regarding transportation convenience
| Criteria | PR Canada | US Green Card |
|---|---|---|
| Is it possible to maintain permanent residency status by traveling between the two countries? | ✅ Yes, if you meet the requirement of 730 days over 5 years. | ❌ Difficult to maintain if you are frequently absent for too long. |
| Do you need a Reentry Permit? | Not required if you haven't been out for more than 5 years. | Mandatory if going for more than 1 year. |
| Is it possible to live a long life in Vietnam? | Easier | ❌ More restrictions |
3. Regarding tax and financial obligations
-
US Green Card : You must file a Worldwide Income tax return annually with the IRS, even if you live in Vietnam → this can be complicated and risky in terms of taxation.
-
PR Canada : You only file taxes when you are actually residing in Canada → more flexibility.
Which option is more suitable for busy entrepreneurs in Vietnam?
| Criteria | PR Canada | US Green Card |
|---|---|---|
| Flexible residency | ✅ | ❌ |
| This can be maintained while working in Vietnam. | ✅ | ❌ |
| Tax obligations when not residing in the country of residence. | ✅ Not mandatory | ❌ Required |
| Risk of losing your card when you are absent for an extended period. | Low (if managed properly) | High |
👉 Conclusion: Canadian PR is much more suitable for business people whose main occupation is in Vietnam.
If you are considering between two immigration programs, KeyApply can help you:
- Compare the cost and processing time of each program.
- Suggested pathways to apply for Canadian permanent residency under the investor/entrepreneur stream that suit you.
- Prepare proof of residence if you travel frequently.
Please schedule a consultation with KeyApply offices.
