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ToggleComplete Guide to Obtaining a Work Permit in Vietnam

Vietnam has become a dynamic hub for foreign professionals, with its growing economy and diverse job opportunities. However, to legally work in Vietnam, expatriates must obtain a work permit. This comprehensive guide, brought to you by Globexa Immigration, will walk you through everything you need to know about the Vietnamese work permit process, from eligibility to application steps, costs, and more.
1. What is a Work Permit in Vietnam?
A Vietnamese work permit is an official document issued by the Ministry of Labor, Invalids, and Social Affairs (MoLISA) that authorizes a foreign individual to work in Vietnam for a specific employer and position. Without a valid work permit, foreign nationals are prohibited from working in Vietnam and may face fines or deportation.
2. Who Needs a Work Permit in Vietnam?
A work permit is required for most foreign nationals working in Vietnam for more than 3 months. Exceptions apply in cases such as:
✅ Short-term assignments under 3 months.
✅ Diplomatic and consular officers.
✅ Board members, owners of limited liability companies, or capital-contributing members of partnerships.
✅ Volunteers and students under specific agreements.
3. Key Requirements for a Vietnam Work Permit
To qualify for a work permit, you must:
✔️ Be at least 18 years old.
✔️ Be in good health and have no criminal record.
✔️ Possess relevant qualifications and experience (typically a degree and at least 3 years of relevant work experience).
✔️ Have a sponsoring employer in Vietnam who applies on your behalf.
4. Step-by-Step Process to Obtain a Work Permit in Vietnam
1️⃣ Step 1: Apply for Approval of Demand for Foreign Workers
Your Vietnamese employer must submit a request to the Department of Labor explaining why they need to hire a foreign worker and proving there’s no qualified local candidate. This approval is a prerequisite for the work permit application.
At Globexa Immigration, we assist employers and employees in preparing a compelling case for this approval, ensuring a smooth process.
2️⃣ Step 2: Prepare Necessary Documents
The applicant (with the employer’s support) needs:
🔸 Valid passport (with notarized copies).
🔸 Criminal record from home country (or Vietnam if resident for over 6 months).
🔸 Health certificate (issued by an approved Vietnamese hospital/clinic).
🔸 Degree/diploma and relevant work experience (translated and legalized).
🔸 2 recent passport-sized photos.
🔸 Approval of foreign labor demand (from Step 1).
Globexa Immigration helps clients gather, translate, and legalize these documents, minimizing errors that could delay your application.
3️⃣ Step 3: Submit the Work Permit Application
Submit the complete application to the Department of Labor, Invalids and Social Affairs (DoLISA) in the province or city where the employer is based. Processing typically takes 7–10 working days.
Our experts at Globexa Immigration ensure timely and accurate submission for faster approval.
4️⃣ Step 4: Receive Your Work Permit
Once approved, the applicant will receive the work permit, valid for up to 2 years, renewable for a further period.
5. How Much Does a Vietnam Work Permit Cost?
🔸 Government fees: Usually between 400,000 VND to 600,000 VND (approx. USD 20–30).
🔸 Additional costs: Document translation, legalization, medical check-ups, and criminal background checks may cost extra.
Globexa Immigration offers cost-effective packages covering all these steps to make your process seamless and stress-free.
6. Can a Work Permit Be Renewed?
Yes! A work permit can be renewed once for a maximum of 2 years. The renewal process involves similar steps as the initial application but with updated documents.
7. What Happens After You Get a Work Permit?
Once you have your work permit:
✅ Apply for a Temporary Residence Card (TRC), which replaces a visa and allows multiple entries.
✅ Ensure compliance with Vietnamese labor laws and regulations.
Globexa Immigration also assists with TRC applications and other related services to help you fully settle in Vietnam.
8. Important Tips and Reminders
🔸 Start the process early (at least 1–2 months before your intended start date).
🔸 Ensure all documents are properly notarized, translated, and legalized.
🔸 Work closely with your Vietnamese employer or trusted immigration consultants like Globexa Immigration.
🔸 Non-compliance with work permit requirements can result in fines of up to 75 million VND (approx. USD 3,200) and deportation.
Conclusion
Obtaining a work permit in Vietnam is a multi-step process, but with proper planning and support from Globexa Immigration, it can be completed smoothly. Our expert team helps professionals and companies navigate Vietnam’s immigration rules with ease.
Whether you’re an individual seeking a work permit or a company needing assistance for your foreign staff, Globexa Immigration is here to provide trusted and efficient services.
📞 Contact Globexa Immigration today to start your journey toward working legally in Vietnam!