How to apply for Vietnam work visa for foreigners

Getting a Vietnam working visa is a key step for foreigners who want to work legally in Vietnam. This article will help you understand the process. The resource will provide you with detailed information on conditions, procedures, where to apply, and the right visa types.

Overview about Vietnam working visa

A Vietnam working visa, also called the LD1 or LD2 visa, is for foreigners who come to work in the country. You need this visa to work legally in Vietnam. It also shows that a business or organization in Vietnam has sponsored you.

• Visa LD1: This visa is for foreigners working at organizations and businesses that do not need work permits. This applies to those covered by international treaties that Vietnam is part of.
• Visa LD2: For foreign workers who must have a work permit to work at organizations and businesses in Vietnam.

The maximum term of a work visa is 2 years, you can extend it depending on your labor and job status.

Who is eligible to get Vietnam work visa?

To apply for work permits for foreigners, foreign employee need to meet the following basic conditions:

• Be 18 years old or older.
• Possess complete legal capacity.
• Have professional, suitable technical skills or background to the job.
• No criminal history in Vietnam or overseas.
• Fulfill the health criteria for the intended job role.

Conditions to apply

Below are some important conditions that foreign workers need to meet before applying:

• Invited or sponsored by a business in Vietnam: This is a mandatory requirement. Employees need to have a work contract or documents proving the relationship with the sponsoring company.
• Have a work permit or work permit exemption: Foreign workers are not subject to refusal to enter Vietnam. Also, you need a valid work permit or permit-exempt certificate.
• Complete Profile Requirements: A valid passport or international travel documents, a photo card, application form, relevant degrees or certificates, any other required documents.

Where to apply for a Vietnam work visa?

To applying for a work permits in Vietnam, you can refer to the following two ways:

• Submit at the Vietnamese Embassy or Consulate: Applicable when you submit your application from abroad.
• Submit to the Vietnam Immigration Department or local branches: Applicable to workers in Vietnam.

Note: Choosing where to apply for a work visa depends on your current residence status and desired visa type.

How to get a Vietnam working visa

The process of applying for a work visa for foreigners is carried out according to the following steps:

• Register for a work permit:

Foreign employee need to send relevant documents such as: Degree, criminal record, health certificate, etc. to the sponsoring company. Normally, application processing time is usually 15-20 working days.

• Apply for visa approval letter:

The sponsoring business submits an application for a visa approval letter at the Immigration Department. Once approved, you will receive a work visa approval letter.

• Visa stamp:

The Vietnamese Embassy or Consulate abroad will stamp the visa. If you opt for a visa on arrival, you can obtain it at the airport.

The process of getting a work visa can change. It depends on the type of visa and the worker’s situation.

How long does it takes to get a work visa for Vietnam?

Vietnam work visa processing time often fluctuates depending on the type of application and the filing agency. Below are reference timelines:

• Work permit processing: Processing time is 15-20 working days after submitting all documents.
• Visa processing at the Embassy/Consulate: Processing time is 5-7 working days.
• Visa on arrival: Issued at the airport within 15-30 minutes if there is an approval letter.

If you submit an incomplete application or if we require additional documents from you, the process might extend.

Working visa application fees

The cost of applying for a work visa depends on the type of visa and specific duration. Below is a reference fee table:

Note: This fee may vary depending on the visa issuing agency or support service.

Validity of the Working visa

A Vietnam working visa usually lasts for a maximum of 2 years. You can extend it based on your work permit. After your visa expires, you must apply for an extension or a new visa to keep working in Vietnam.

Note: Expiring your work visa but not renewing it may result in administrative fines or deportation.

Difference between Vietnam work visa and Vietnam business visa

Many people often confuse business visas and Vietnamese work visas as the same thing. However, these two types of visas are completely different. Here is a comparison chart to help you distinguish easily:

Any age limits on working visa for Vietnam?

According to the provisions of the Vietnam Labor Code, the age limit for a Vietnam visa ranges from:

• Male workers: Retirement age is 60 years and 9 months (as of 2023).
• Female workers: Retirement age is 56 years and 8 months (as of 2023).

Workers outside this age group can still apply for a work if the job requires it and the sponsoring business approves it.

Getting a Vietnam working visa can be tricky. However, if you prepare well and pick the right support partner, the process will be easier and more effective. If you need advice on applying for a visa, please contact EntryVietnamVisa immediately for support!