How to Get a Work Visa in Vietnam

The work visa process in Vietnam might seem daunting at first glance, but it’s a journey that many expats have navigated successfully. Whether you’re planning to teach English, work for a multinational company, or set up your own business in Vietnam, the key to your new life begins with obtaining the right visa. Let’s unravel this process in a way that’s simple, detailed, and approachable.

What is a Vietnam Work Visa?

A work visa (LD visa) is granted to foreigners working in Vietnam under contracts, with companies or organizations that have legally registered in Vietnam. This is not to be confused with a business visa (DN visa), which allows short-term visits for business purposes like meetings or conferences, but not long-term work.

Visa Types for Foreign Workers

Vietnam offers several categories for work visas depending on your circumstances:

• LD1 visa: Issued to foreigners working in Vietnam who are exempt from work permit requirements.
• LD2 visa: Granted to foreigners who must obtain a work permit to work in Vietnam.

For most professionals, the LD2 visa is the standard route. This is the visa category for those who are employed by a local company, foreign enterprise, or are self-employed within Vietnam.

Step-by-Step Guide to Applying for a Vietnam Work Visa

1. Find a Job and Secure a Work Contract

Before applying for a work visa, you’ll need to have a signed employment contract with a company in Vietnam. This company will act as your sponsor and guide you through the process. Without a job offer, the work visa application cannot proceed.

2. Obtain a Work Permit

You are required to secure a work permit before obtaining the visa. To get a work permit, the following documents are essential:

• Application form
• Health certificate (certifying you’re fit to work)
• Criminal background check from your home country or any country you’ve lived in for over 6 months
• Proof of professional qualifications (degrees, certificates)
• Work experience relevant to the job you’ll be doing in Vietnam
• A job offer letter from the Vietnamese company employing you

The employer in Vietnam will submit these documents on your behalf to the Ministry of Labor, Invalids, and Social Affairs (MoLISA). Once approved, the work permit is issued for a period of two years, after which it must be renewed.

3. Apply for a Work Visa

After receiving the work permit, your next step is to apply for the work visa. The application is submitted through the Vietnamese Immigration Department. The required documents include:

• Valid passport (with at least 6 months validity)
• Work permit (or work permit exemption certificate)
• A visa application form
• Approval letter from the immigration department
• Passport-sized photos
• A letter of sponsorship from your employer

4. Complete Residence Registration

Once your visa is approved, you’ll need to register your residence at the local police station within 30 days of your arrival in Vietnam. This registration is critical and often overlooked, but it’s essential for legal residency.

Common Challenges and Mistakes to Avoid

Incomplete Documentation

One of the biggest challenges applicants face is ensuring that all their paperwork is in order. Missing or incorrectly filled forms are a common reason for delays or denials. Double-check the checklist of required documents and make sure to consult your employer or a visa agent to help with the process.

Background Checks and Health Certificates

Obtaining a criminal record certificate from your home country can take time, especially if you’ve lived in multiple countries. Similarly, your health certificate must be from an approved hospital in Vietnam or a certified hospital abroad.

Changing Employers

If you decide to change jobs while in Vietnam, you’ll need a new work permit. This process can be time-consuming, and some individuals mistakenly assume that the permit transfers with their job.

Processing Time and Fees

• Processing time: The work permit takes about 7 to 10 working days, and the visa takes another 5 to 7 working days. However, depending on your circumstances, it could take longer.
• Visa Fees: Fees vary based on the duration and type of visa, with costs ranging from $85 to $135. Always check the latest fee structures as they are subject to change.

Visa Exemptions for Specific Individuals

Certain individuals may be exempt from work permits, such as those entering Vietnam for less than 3 months or those working in management, executive, or technical roles. Ensure you verify if your situation qualifies for an exemption.

Life After the Visa: What to Expect

Living and working in Vietnam offers a blend of traditional culture and modern convenience. Expats generally find Vietnam to be an affordable country to live in, with excellent healthcare options and a growing expatriate community, especially in major cities like Ho Chi Minh City and Hanoi.

Once your visa and permit are settled, your employer may assist with housing, help you set up a bank account, and offer advice on local tax regulations. Vietnamese work culture emphasizes hierarchy and respect, but it’s also known for being welcoming and collaborative.

Understanding the tax system is also crucial, as foreign workers in Vietnam are taxed based on their residency status. Those staying for more than 183 days in a calendar year are classified as residents and taxed accordingly.

Conclusion: Your First Step to Living in Vietnam

Getting a work visa in Vietnam isn’t just about paperwork – it’s about opening the door to a new adventure in a country known for its vibrant culture, growing economy, and friendly people. Once you’ve secured your visa and permit, you’ll be able to dive into your new career and enjoy all the perks of life in Vietnam.

From the bustling streets of Saigon to the serene landscapes of rural Vietnam, the possibilities are endless. Whether you’re teaching English, working in tech, or building your own business, Vietnam has something to offer everyone willing to embrace its unique charm.