On this page
- Vietnam Work Permit: Overview
- What Your Employer Must Do (Work Permit Vietnam)
- How to Apply
- Fees and Processing Times
- From Work Visa to PR
- When Self-Preparation Isn't Enough
- Changing Employers
- Renewal and Extension
- Eligibility Requirements
- Family Members
- RFE Patterns
- Fees
- Required forms
- Related visa types
- Related guides
- Related goals
- Next steps
Vietnam Work Permit: Overview
#A Vietnam work permit allows you to work legally for an employer in Vietnam.
The Immigration Department of Vietnam (Cục Quản lý xuất nhập cảnh) manages the process and issues the physical permit card.
You must submit a complete Form Work Permit Application with accurate employer details.
Incomplete forms or missing fields can delay or prevent approval.
Key Authorities and Documents
| Item | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Immigration Department of Vietnam | Reviews and issues work permits |
| Work Permit Application | Formal request for legal employment |
| Work Visa (LD Symbol) | Visa category linked to employment |
| Business Visa (DN Symbol) | Used for business-related entry, not a substitute for a work permit |
| Investor Visa (DT Symbol) | For qualifying investors |
| Temporary Residence Card (TRC) | Allows extended stay after approval |
| Visa Exemption | Does not replace a required work permit |
Basic Application Requirements
You must:
- Complete the official form in full
- Provide employer details in Vietnam
- Sign the application
- Submit required supporting evidence
The Immigration Department charges a work permit card fee, payable in Vietnamese đồng (₫).
Check the official schedule from the Immigration Department of Vietnam for the current amount and issuance timeline.
After approval, authorities issue a physical work permit card.
You must verify the collection schedule with the issuing office.
What Your Employer Must Do (Work Permit Vietnam)
#You cannot obtain a work permit without an employer who agrees to sponsor you.
Your employer must take responsibility for submitting your Form Work Permit Application to the Immigration Department of Vietnam (Cục Quản lý xuất nhập cảnh) (Immigration Dept).
Your employer’s core obligations include:
- Sponsoring and supporting your work permit request
- Acting as the responsible party before the Immigration Dept
- Ensuring required declarations are made, including any funds in dollars or equivalent currency when applicable
If you enter Vietnam under a different visa category, your employer must align your status with your intended employment.
The visa type must match the purpose of stay.
| Visa Type | Symbol | Employer’s Role |
|---|---|---|
| Work Visa | LD | Sponsor and support employment-based stay |
| Business Visa | DN | Coordinate status if work activities apply |
| Investor Visa | DT | Not employment-based sponsorship |
| Visa Exemption | — | Assess whether conversion is required |
If you plan to apply for a Temporary Residence Card (TRC) after receiving a work permit, your employer typically supports that process as well.
You remain responsible for your personal compliance.
Your employer drives the formal submission and sponsorship before the Immigration Dept.
Without that sponsorship, the work permit process cannot proceed.
How to Apply
#You must first confirm that your qualifications or skills match the position offered in Vietnam.
The Immigration Department of Vietnam (Cục Quản lý xuất nhập cảnh) reviews whether you meet the job requirements before issuing a work permit.
Step-by-Step Process
-
Secure a qualifying job offer in Vietnam.
-
Prepare your Form Work Permit Application with evidence of your relevant qualifications or professional skills.
-
Submit your application through the appropriate authority linked to the Immigration Dept.
-
Pay the required government fee.
If you enter Vietnam first, you may hold a Business Visa (DN Symbol), Work Visa (LD Symbol), Investor Visa (DT Symbol), or qualify for a Visa Exemption, depending on your circumstances.
After your work permit is approved, you may apply for a Temporary Residence Card (TRC) if eligible.
Eligibility Requirements
- You possess qualifications relevant to the job position.
- You demonstrate skills appropriate for the role you will perform.
Application Fee
| Item | Amount (VND) | As of |
|---|---|---|
| Work Permit Application Fee | ₫600 | 2026-02 |
Pay the fee at the time of submission.
For updated procedures or filing details, consult the Immigration Department of Vietnam directly.
Fees and Processing Times
#You pay government fees at the provincial authority handling your Form Work Permit Application.
The exact amount can vary by province and by application category.
As of February 2026, the administrative fee is set at the VND equivalent of 100 USD, as determined by the Immigration Department of Vietnam (Cục Quản lý xuất nhập cảnh).
You should confirm the current VND amount directly with the Immigration Dept before you file.
processing times depend on your visa type and location.
Expect longer timelines if you apply in high‑volume provinces.
| Application Type | Estimated Processing Time |
|---|---|
| Work Permit | 1–2 months |
| Exit Visa (if required) | 1–2 weeks |
| Visa processing (LD, DN, DT) | Varies by province |
| Temporary Residence Card (TRC) | Varies by province |
If you hold a Work Visa (LD Symbol), Business Visa (DN Symbol), or Investor Visa (DT Symbol), your visa processing time may differ from the work permit timeline.
Each application runs on its own track.
Applicants seeking a Temporary Residence Card (TRC) should verify current timelines with the Immigration Dept, as they fluctuate by location.
If you qualify for a Visa Exemption, you may avoid certain visa fees, but you must still meet work permit requirements.
Always check directly with the Immigration Dept for the latest fee schedule and province‑specific processing estimates before submitting your application.
From Work Visa to PR
#You move from a Work Visa (LD Symbol) or other long-term status toward permanent residence by filing the correct application with the Immigration Department of Vietnam (Cục Quản lý xuất nhập cảnh).
The Immigration Dept provides the official forms and instructions.
You must download the current Form Work Permit Application and related guidance directly from its website before you file.
Use the correct status as your starting point:
| Current Status | Issuing Authority | Your Next Step |
|---|---|---|
| Work Visa (LD Symbol) | Immigration Dept | Confirm valid work authorization and prepare updated application |
| Business Visa (DN Symbol) | Immigration Dept | Review eligibility and gather required forms |
| Investor Visa (DT Symbol) | Immigration Dept | Prepare supporting documents for status change |
| Temporary Residence Card (TRC) | Immigration Dept | Verify validity before filing new request |
| Visa Exemption | Immigration Dept | Confirm lawful stay before submitting application |
Follow a clear process:
-
Download the latest forms and instructions from the Immigration Dept website.
-
Complete the required application accurately.
-
Submit your file to the Immigration Dept.
The official forms also collect general information about your role during any local investigation and after its conclusion.
You must answer these sections fully if they apply to you.
Do not rely on outdated versions of forms.
The Immigration Dept controls the process, and you must follow its current instructions exactly.
When Self-Preparation Isn't Enough
#You may complete your Form Work Permit Application on your own, but small documentation errors can stop the process.
The Immigration Dept (Cục Quản lý xuất nhập cảnh) reviews personal identification details closely.
If your application lists a passport number incorrectly or omits it, officers can reject or delay your file.
A frequent issue involves missing identity documents.
| Common Issue | Why It Causes Problems |
|---|---|
| Incorrect passport number | Mismatch with official records |
| Missing passport copy | Incomplete identity verification |
| Incomplete personal details | Application cannot be processed |
You must attach a clear copy of your passport.
If you fail to include it, your application lacks required identification evidence.
These issues affect more than just the Work Visa (LD Symbol).
Errors can also complicate related filings connected to a Business Visa (DN Symbol), Investor Visa (DT Symbol), or a Temporary Residence Card (TRC).
If you enter under a Visa Exemption, you still need accurate identification records when transitioning to a work-based status.
Before submission, confirm that you:
- Enter your passport number exactly as shown
- Include a complete passport copy
- Provide full personal identification details
If your case involves multiple visa categories or status changes, professional review reduces the risk of preventable rejections.
Changing Employers
#When you change employers in Vietnam, you must ensure your passport remains valid for at least six months.
The Immigration Department of Vietnam (Cục Quản lý xuất nhập cảnh) (Immigration Dept) will expect a passport that meets this validity standard for any related immigration procedure.
Your immigration status may involve a Work Visa (LD Symbol), Business Visa (DN Symbol), Investor Visa (DT Symbol), or a Temporary Residence Card (TRC).
Regardless of the visa category, you must maintain a passport with sufficient remaining validity before submitting any updated or new Form Work Permit Application.
If you entered Vietnam under a Visa Exemption, you must still hold a passport that satisfies the six‑month validity rule when taking steps connected to employment changes.
Basic Document Check
| Document | Requirement |
|---|---|
| Passport | Valid for at least six months from the relevant filing date |
Before you proceed with any filing tied to your new employer, review your passport expiration date carefully.
If it will expire within six months, renew it first.
For specific procedural steps related to your visa type or TRC status, consult the Immigration Dept.
Renewal and Extension
#You must review the eligibility criteria for your specific category before you request a renewal or extension.
The Immigration Department of Vietnam (Cục Quản lý xuất nhập cảnh) (Immigration Dept) assesses each case based on the function you will perform.
Your renewal typically requires updated civil documents and academic qualifications relevant to your role.
Incomplete or inconsistent records can delay or prevent approval.
Renewal or extension may relate to one or more of the following:
- Work Visa (LD Symbol)
- Business Visa (DN Symbol)
- Investor Visa (DT Symbol)
- Temporary Residence Card (TRC)
- Status under Visa Exemption
You must ensure that your underlying Form Work Permit Application remains valid and consistent with your visa category.
| Document Type | Purpose in Renewal or Extension |
|---|---|
| Civil documents | Confirm identity and legal status |
| Academic qualifications | Verify professional eligibility |
| Work permit records | Support continued employment |
| Visa or TRC details | Confirm current immigration status |
Follow these steps:
-
Review the instructions for your eligibility category.
-
Prepare updated civil and academic documents.
-
Submit your request to the Immigration Dept.
Filing a renewal or extension request does not guarantee approval.
The Immigration Dept reviews each application individually based on the documents and the function you will perform in Vietnam.
Eligibility Requirements
#You must meet specific professional and documentation standards before you file your Form Work Permit Application.
The Department of Labor (MOLISA) reviews eligibility.
You should verify registration details directly with the Department of Labor before submission.
You must provide valid proof of your qualifications or relevant professional skills.
Expired certificates or outdated credentials can lead to rejection.
Core eligibility criteria:
- Valid passport and appropriate entry status (such as a Business Visa (DN Symbol) or other lawful stay)
- Proof of qualifications or relevant work experience
- Employment arrangement supporting a Work Visa (LD Symbol)
- Completed Work Permit Application filed with the Department of Labor
- Payment of required labor contract registration fee
The labor contract registration requires a fee of ₫ equivalent to 400 USD (as of 2026-02), paid in Vietnamese đồng.
Confirm the exact VND amount with the Department of Labor at the time of filing.
| Requirement | What You Must Provide | Authority Involved |
|---|---|---|
| Qualifications | Valid degree, certificate, or proof of skills (not expired) | Department of Labor (MOLISA) |
| Employment Basis | Labor contract or employer sponsorship | Department of Labor |
| Immigration Status | Appropriate visa (e.g., LD, DN, DT) or lawful stay | Immigration Dept |
| Residence Option | Eligibility for a Temporary Residence Card (TRC), if applicable | Immigration Dept |
If you enter Vietnam under a Visa Exemption, you must still obtain proper authorization before working.
After approval, you may proceed with a Work Visa (LD Symbol) or apply for a Temporary Residence Card (TRC) through the Immigration Dept, depending on your status.
Family Members
#Your Vietnam work permit doesn't automatically cover your spouse or children. Each family member needs a valid visa or residence document from the Immigration Department of Vietnam (Cục Quản lý xuất nhập cảnh).
Family members can use one of several immigration categories, depending on their situation:
- Work Visa (LD Symbol) – if they independently qualify for employment
- Business Visa (DN Symbol) – for short-term business activities
- Investor Visa (DT Symbol) – if they make a qualifying investment
- Visa Exemption – if eligible under Vietnam’s exemption rules
- Temporary Residence Card (TRC) – for longer-term stay linked to your status
You must secure your own work permit before looking into long-term residence for your family. A work permit is required for foreign employees, issued by the Ministry of Labour, Invalids and Social Affairs (MOLISA).
The permit is valid for up to 2 years and can be renewed.
Standard processing for a work permit usually takes 1 to 2 months. If your documents are more complex—say, there are discrepancies in names on birth certificates—expect extra prep time.
| Item | Key Authority | Validity |
|---|---|---|
| Work Permit | MOLISA | Up to 2 years (renewable) |
| TRC | Immigration Dept | Based on approved status |
| Entry Visa (LD, DN, DT) | Immigration Dept | As granted |
Check current eligibility and document requirements with the Immigration Dept before filing any Form Work Permit Application or residence request for family.
RFE Patterns
#The Immigration Department of Vietnam (Cục Quản lý xuất nhập cảnh) often asks for more information if your file is incomplete or unsigned. Most problems come from errors in the Form Work Permit Application or related visa paperwork.
Review every field before you submit. Missing signatures or blank required fields almost always lead to follow-up notices.
| Common Issue | Where It Appears | How It Affects You |
|---|---|---|
| Missing signature | Work Permit Application, Work Visa (LD Symbol), Business Visa (DN Symbol), Investor Visa (DT Symbol) | Processing pauses until you submit a signed form |
| Blank required fields | Work Permit Application, Temporary Residence Card (TRC) forms | Immigration Dept requests clarification |
| Inconsistent information | Visa applications linked to TRC or Visa Exemption | File review extends while details are verified |
Switching from a Business Visa (DN Symbol) or Investor Visa (DT Symbol) to a Work Visa (LD Symbol) gets more scrutiny if your documents don't match up. The purpose of stay should be consistent across all filings.
Before submitting, make sure you:
- Complete all required sections
- Sign every applicable form
- Check consistency across visa and permit documents
Clerical errors can slow things down. Careful review helps keep your application on track.
Fees
#| Component | Amount |
|---|---|
| Application feeExtracted from guide content — verify against official source | $600 |
| Labor contract registration feeMOLISA registration — verify against Department of Labor | $400 |
| Work permit card feePhysical permit issuance — verify against official schedule | $200 |
| Administrative feeProcessing — amount may vary by province | $100 |
Fees change; always verify on Immigration Dept..
Required forms
#Next steps
#Use Find My Visa to build a sequenced plan with official sources and deadlines.
FAQs
Can investors work without a work permit?
Some Investor Visa (DT Symbol) holders might qualify for a work permit exemption.
Eligibility depends on investment status.
Check exemption rules with the Immigration Dept.
What is a Temporary Residence Card (TRC)?
A Temporary Residence Card (TRC) allows you to stay in Vietnam long term.
You may apply after getting the proper visa and work authorization.
Eligibility and processing details are available from the Immigration Dept.
Does visa exemption allow you to work?
No. Visa Exemption permits short stays only.
It does not authorize employment.
You’ll need to complete a Form Work Permit Application and secure the appropriate visa.
What the Work Permit Covers?
The Work Permit form for Vietnam is managed by the Immigration Department of Vietnam and facilitates the legal employment of foreign nationals in Vietnam. Details about the employer in Vietnam. Ensure the form is fully completed and signed.
What Your Employer Must Do?
Applicants must have an employer willing to sponsor their Form Work Permit Application. dollars or equivalent must be declared
How to Apply?
Applicants must hold the qualifications or skills relevant to the position for which they are applying. information on victim’s compensation programs in the United States Application fee: $600 (as of 2026-02).
What should you know about fees and processing times?
Read More View Alerts and Messages Archive Quick Facts PASSPORT VALIDITY: Must have six months’ validity remaining Gather supporting documents such as passport and proof of qualifications. processing times for required exit visas – one to two weeks
What should you know about from work visa to pr?
This form is used by applicants filing with Immigration Department of Vietnam. general information regarding the victim’s role during the local investigation and following its conclusion Download the current work-permit and instructions from the official Immigration Department of Vietnam website.
When Self-Preparation Isn't Enough?
Personal identification details including passport number. Failing to attach a copy of the passport.
What should you know about changing employers?
A valid passport with at least six months of validity.
What should you know about renewal and extension?
civil documents and academic qualifications to process work visas civil documents and academic qualifications for various functions Review the instructions for your specific eligibility category before starting.
Official sources referenced
Last reviewed: 2026-03-16
VisaMind provides informational guidance only and is not a government agency. This is not legal advice. Requirements can change and eligibility depends on your specific facts. If your case is complex or high-stakes, consult a licensed immigration attorney.
Next steps
Every Vietnam visa case depends on your nationality, purpose, and timeline. Get a personalized plan with official sources and deadlines.
Get my Work Permit plan