How to Get a Vietnam Work Permit
- Truc Huynh
- Jan 31
- 3 min read
Vietnam is becoming an increasingly attractive destination for foreign professionals and businesses looking to expand in Southeast Asia. However, before working legally in the country, expatriates must obtain a Vietnam work permit. This guide provides a step-by-step breakdown of the process, including requirements, necessary documents, and practical tips to ensure a smooth application process.
1. Understanding the Vietnam Work Permit
A Vietnam work permit is an official document issued by the Department of Labor, Invalids, and Social Affairs (DoLISA), allowing foreign nationals to work legally in Vietnam for a specific employer and within a defined period.
1.1 Who Needs a Vietnam Work Permit?
Most foreign employees working in Vietnam for more than three months require a work permit. However, there are exemptions, including:
Foreign investors and business owners
Chief representatives of foreign representative offices
Internal transferees within multinational companies operating in specific sectors
Foreigners married to Vietnamese citizens
Teachers and trainers working for international organizations recognized by the Vietnamese government
1.2 Work Permit Validity
Vietnam work permits are usually valid for up to two years. After this period, they must be renewed or re-applied for.
2. Eligibility Requirements for a Vietnam Work Permit
To be eligible for a Vietnam work permit, an applicant must meet the following criteria:
Be at least 18 years old
Be in good health, as certified by a recognized medical institution
Possess relevant qualifications, professional experience, and technical skills
Have a clean criminal record (both in Vietnam and their home country)
Be employed by a registered company in Vietnam
3. Required Documents for a Vietnam Work Permit
Applicants must prepare a set of documents, including:
3.1 Employer’s Documents
A valid business registration certificate
Approval from the relevant Vietnamese authorities to employ foreign workers
A written request for a work permit submission
3.2 Employee’s Documents
A passport (valid for at least six months beyond the intended stay)
A health certificate issued within six months before application
A criminal background check issued in the home country (or Vietnam if residing for over six months)
Proof of qualifications: university degrees, professional certificates, or work experience confirmation (as required by the job position)
A job contract or offer letter
Two passport-sized photos (white background, taken within six months)
4. Application Process for a Vietnam Work Permit
Step 1: Obtain a Criminal Background Check
Foreigners can obtain a criminal record certificate from their home country or from Vietnamese authorities if they have resided in Vietnam for more than six months.
Step 2: Undergo a Medical Examination
A medical check-up must be conducted at a Vietnamese government-approved hospital. The report should confirm the applicant's fitness to work.
Step 3: Prepare and Legalize Documents
Certain documents, such as educational certificates, must be notarized and legalized in the applicant’s home country before submission to Vietnamese authorities.
Step 4: Employer Submits Application to DoLISA
The employer is responsible for submitting the completed application at least 15 days before the foreign employee starts working.
Step 5: Wait for Processing and Receive Work Permit
Processing takes around 5-15 working days. Once issued, the employee can legally work in Vietnam for the permit’s validity period.
5. Work Permit Exemptions and Alternatives
5.1 Work Permit Exemption Categories
Certain categories of foreigners can work in Vietnam without a work permit but must apply for a work permit exemption certificate, such as:
Foreign spouses of Vietnamese citizens
Experts and specialists working for short-term projects
Volunteers for international organizations
5.2 Temporary Residence Cards for Work Permit Holders
Once granted a work permit, employees can apply for a Temporary Residence Card (TRC), allowing them to stay in Vietnam without needing a visa extension.
6. Work Permit Renewal and Re-Application
Work permits are not automatically renewed. Employees need to apply for a renewal at least 30 days before expiration by submitting:
Updated health check
A new employment contract
Any required supporting documents
7. Common Challenges and How to Overcome Them
7.1 Document Legalization
Ensure all documents requiring notarization and legalization are completed before arriving in Vietnam.
7.2 Language Barriers
Most official documents must be translated into Vietnamese, requiring professional translation services.
7.3 Processing Delays
Submit applications early to account for unexpected delays in processing.
8. Conclusion
Obtaining a Vietnam work permit is a structured but manageable process with proper preparation. Ensuring compliance with legal requirements helps foreign professionals work legally and securely in Vietnam. For a hassle-free experience, working with professional legal or HR services can provide guidance through the entire application process.
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