Vietnam Work Permit: Requirements, Process & Exemptions

The Vietnam work permit is a mandatory document for most foreign nationals planning to work legally in Vietnam. As of December 2025, regulations under Decree 219/2025/ND-CP (effective August 2025) have streamlined procedures, eliminated local recruitment advertising, and expanded exemptions making it easier for skilled foreigners to contribute to Vietnam’s growing economy.

A work permit is required for stays over 3 months (or shorter in some cases) and is essential for obtaining a work visa (LD) or Temporary Residence Card (TRC). Failure to comply can result in fines, deportation, or employer penalties.

vietnam work permit

Who Needs a Vietnam Work Permit?

Foreign workers in positions such as:

  • Manager/Executive Director
  • Expert (university degree + 3 years experience or equivalent)
  • Technical Worker (1+ year training + 3-5 years experience)

Employer-sponsored; typically for labor contracts, intra-company transfers, or service contracts.

Key Updates in 2025 (Decree 219/2025/ND-CP)

  • No need to advertise for Vietnamese candidates.
  • Consolidated application (no separate labor demand approval).
  • Expanded short-term exemption: Up to 90 cumulative days per year (unlimited entries).
  • Processing: Faster, with online options.
  • Multi-province work: Simple notification (3 days advance).

Vietnam Work Permit Requirements

Applicants must:

  • Be 18+ years old.
  • Have good health (medical certificate).
  • Clean criminal record (police check from home country + Vietnam).
  • No ongoing prosecution.
  • Fit qualified positions (degree/experience proof, legalized & translated).

Documents (employer submits):

  • Application form.
  • Passport copy.
  • Photos (4x6cm).
  • Health check.
  • Criminal record.
  • Qualification/experience certificates (consular legalized).
  • Labor contract/offer.

Step-by-Step Application Process

Employer handles submission to Ministry of Labor (MoLISA) or provincial Department (DoLISA):

  1. Prepare & legalize documents (30-60 days prep time).
  2. Submit online/in-person (at least 15 days before start date).
  3. Processing: 5-10 working days.
  4. Receive permit (valid up to 2 years, renewable once).

Total time: 20-30 days including prep.

Validity, Renewal & Fees

  • Duration: Max 2 years (based on contract).
  • Renewal: Once, for another 2 years (apply 30-60 days before expiry).
  • Fees: VND 400,000–1,000,000 (provincial variation) + legalization/translation/health check costs (~USD 200-500 total).

Work Permit Exemptions (Expanded in 2025)

No permit needed (but often require exemption certificate/notification):

  • Short-term (<90 days cumulative/year).
  • Intra-company transfers (<3 months).
  • Investors/Board members (capital ≥ VND 3 billion).
  • Volunteers, journalists, lawyers.
  • Certain experts/teachers (with confirmation).

Employer notifies authorities 3-10 days in advance.

After Vietnam Work Permit: Visa & TRC

  • Apply for LD work visa (up to 2 years).
  • Get Temporary Residence Card (TRC) for longer stays.

Tips for Success

  • Start early—legalization takes time.
  • Use professional services for document handling.
  • Ensure experience matches job title.

For expert assistance with Vietnam work permit applications, exemptions, or renewals, consult reliable providers for smooth compliance.