AEC in 2015: How Can I Get Work Permit In Vietnam?

Thanks to the ASEAN Economic Community (AEC), a single regional common market of Asian countries will be created by 2015. It is expected to create a competitive market of over 600 million people in Asian countries which results in free flow of skilled labor. To be ready for that huge opportunity, foreign workers and business owners in the region should learn more about work permits as the regulations and procedures vary greatly between countries. In Vietnam, a new labor law concerning foreign employment was implemented by the Vietnam’s Department of Labor, Invalid and Social Affairs on 1 November 2013. There are changes in work permit exemptions and approval of technical workers for work permits. It can be a lengthy process to obtain a work permit in Vietnam; therefore, there are some important requirements to note.

Who can get a work permit?

Work permit is currently available for only executives, managers, specialists and technical workers. You must be over 18 years old and have good health condition. In addition, no criminal record and not being under warrant of arrest or jailing are required.

Who not need a work permit?

There are some circumstances that work permits for foreigners in Vietnam are not required: head representative of office or branch of an international company; in a company’s board of the corporation; entering Vietnam for an emergent situation; working less than 3 months or lawyers that are given permission.

How to apply for a work permit?

Before foreign workers arrive in Vietnam, a notarized police clearance certificate from their home country must be sent to the employer, and the employer will have it and all other necessary documents (work application or confirmation of work change, copies of qualifications or professional certificates,…) legitimized and translated into Vietnamese. If documents are approved by the Vietnam’s Department of Labor, Invalid and Social Affairs, the foreigner can enter Vietnam and obtain a medical certificate from an authorized medical professional as long as they meet the health requirement. Then, they can submit their application. The processing time is 15 working days and there are three major levels for application fee.

What else you should know?

Make sure that you have valid passport and Vietnam visa from Vietnam embassy or consulate before entering Vietnam. Visa term will be expired after 12 months and can be applied for a new one if necessary.

After having valid work permit, you can apply for a Temporary Residence Card from Ministry of Public Security, so you don’t have to renew your visa after 90 days and you can use it as an official ID and multiple-entry visa when travelling outside Vietnam.

A work permit is valid for maximum of 3 years. It can’t be extended when expired but you can reapply for a renewal permit.

If you have any questions, do not hesitate to contact our HR outsourcing service.