Are you planning to work in Vietnam? Navigating the process of obtaining a Vietnam Working Visa is essential for a smooth transition into the workforce. This article provides valuable insights into the necessary steps and requirements to secure your working visa in Vietnam. Explore the comprehensive guide to ensure a successful and hassle-free experience right away!
The Vietnam working visa, identified by the code LD, is expressly crafted for expatriates employed within the country.
This particular visa provides individuals with legal permission to work and reside in Vietnam, with a maximum validity of two years. It's crucial to emphasize that if the linked work permit doesn't cover the entire two-year period, the visa's validity will align with the work permit's expiration date.
In summary, the duration of the working visa is contingent upon the timeframe stipulated in the corresponding work permit. This ensures strict adherence to the regulations governing foreign employment in Vietnam.
Are you curious about the diverse options for Vietnam Working Visas? Explore the array of available visa types tailored to different professional needs and employment situations in Vietnam.
The LD1 Vietnam working visa is specifically tailored for foreign individuals seeking employment in the country.
Individuals eligible for this visa are exempt from the standard work permit requirement. However, this exemption may be contingent on provisions outlined in an international treaty involving Vietnam.
Typically valid for up to two years, the LD1 visa can be extended if the individual wishes to continue working in Vietnam beyond the initial validity period. This extension option provides foreign workers the opportunity to prolong their stay and pursue professional activities in Vietnam.
LD1 visa is uniquely designed to cater to the needs of international individuals pursuing employment opportunities within Vietnam
The LD2 working visa in Vietnam allows foreigners to legally work when sponsored by a Vietnamese company or business, under the amendments to the Law on Immigration of Foreigners (No. 51/2019/QH14).
This visa category is specifically designated for foreigners who are obligated to obtain a work permit to work in Vietnam.
The LD2 working visa is further classified based on the time and number of entries granted. Concerning the number of entries, there are two types of LD2 visas: a single-entry LD2 visa and a multiple-entry visa.
Regarding duration, LD2 visas are divided into four main types:
LD2 visa, valid for a maximum of 3 months.
LD2 visa, valid for a period ranging from 3 to 6 months.
LD2 visa, valid for a duration of 6 to 12 months.
LD2 visa, with a validity period extending from 1 to 2 years.
The Vietnam working visa is granted to foreigners intending to work in Vietnam for a specific period. To qualify for this visa, foreigners must meet the following criteria:
Possess a valid passport or international travel documents.
Have an invitation or guarantee from agencies, organizations, or individuals in Vietnam.
Not fall into categories restricted from entry as specified in Article 21 of the Law on Vietnam Immigration (No. 47/2014/QH13).
For foreign workers sponsored or invited by an agency or organization to work in a Vietnamese enterprise, the following additional conditions apply:
The inviting or sponsoring agencies and organizations must be legally established enterprises in Vietnam.
These agencies and organizations must operate within the framework of their functions, tasks, and powers as prescribed by law or granted operating licenses.
Furthermore, as per Clause 5, Article 1 of the 2019 amended Law on Entry, Exit, Transit, and Residence of Foreigners in Vietnam, detailed visa issuance conditions include:
Foreigners with valid passports or international travel documents.
Employees invited or sponsored by agencies, organizations, or individuals in Vietnam, with exceptions specified in Article 16a, Article 16b, and Clause 3, Article 17 of this Law.
Workers who do not fall into categories where entry is prohibited, as prescribed in Article 21 of this Law.
Foreign workers must possess a valid work permit according to the provisions of the Labor Code.
Electronic visas are available for foreigners with passports not subject to the provisions of Clauses 1, 2, 3, and 4, Article 8 of this Law.
When applying for a Vietnam working visa, foreigners must submit a comprehensive set of documents, which include:
Business registration certificates, investment licenses, and operating licenses for representative offices and branches, as required for organizations and enterprises.
A certificate of the sample use of the seal or a notice of the enterprise seal's use.
For first-time applicants at the Immigration Department, a mandatory submission is a document introducing the seal (Form NA16), signed by an authorized representative of the organization.
The Application Form for a Vietnamese working visa (Form NA5) and the temporary residence extension certificate are integral components of the application.
The applicant's original passport, meeting the specified validity requirements, is a mandatory document.
Depending on the work permit status, applicants need to provide either a work permit or a work permit exemption certificate.
The visa application process also requires the submission of a temporary residence book or temporary residence certificate for foreigners.
One of the most important documents to apply for a Vietnam working visa is work permit
Typically, the fastest way to obtain a Vietnam working visa is to have an individual or business in Vietnam sponsor an entry document. Subsequently, you can apply for a visa sticker upon arrival at Vietnam's international border gate.
For more detailed information, please refer to the details provided below:
Step 1: Prepare your documents
Gather all necessary documents for a Vietnam entry dispatch. Ensure that you have everything ready to avoid any interruptions in the process.
Step 2: Submit your application
Submit your application to the Immigration Department and obtain an appointment letter for the results. If you are obtaining a visa at a Vietnamese Consulate abroad, be prepared to pay additional fees at the counter.
Immigration Department addresses:
In the North: 44 – 46 Tran Phu, Ba Dinh District, Hanoi.
In the South: 333 – 335 – 337 Nguyen Trai, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City.
Step 3: Get results and entry documents
Receive the entry documents and visas about 5 days later if your application is valid. The entry dispatch will specify your entry time into Vietnam and where to obtain the working visa.
Step 4: Notification to foreigners
Once the entry dispatch results are available, the guarantee company will email you. They will also send an entry dispatch for you to complete visa procedures at Vietnamese consulates abroad or receive visas at Vietnam International Airport.
Step 5: Receive Visa and Pay the Fee
After receiving the immigration official letter, check the visa pick-up location and time. Typically, there are two locations: International airports in Vietnam and Vietnamese Consulates abroad.
Wherever you obtain your working visa, complete the NA1 form, attach a 4x6 cm photo, and bring your passport and entry document copies.
Finally, pay the visa fee to receive your visa and enter Vietnam.
For foreigners residing in Vietnam and preparing to apply for the Vietnam working visa, here's a simplified guide:
Step 1: Prepare for the Vietnam Working Visa application
Organize the following documents:
Personal ID documents, such as a valid passport.
Job-specific papers, including work permits or relevant invitations.
Completed Vietnam working visa application forms.
Step 2: Submit your well-prepared application
Submit your well-organized Vietnam working visa application to the Immigration Department, ensuring that all required documents are in order.
During the submission process, promptly pay the necessary state fees.
Following submission, you will receive an appointment letter detailing when and where to return for the results.
Step 3: Collect the results at the Immigration Department
Once your application is processed, visit the Immigration Department to collect the results.
Carefully examine the visa information upon receipt, addressing any errors promptly and ensuring corrections are made as necessary.
Thoroughly review the issued visa, which explicitly outlines the validity period and contains personal information about the visa holder.
Many individuals mistakenly assume that a business visa and a Vietnam working visa in Vietnam serve the same purpose. However, it's crucial to understand that they are distinct categories with different implications for foreigners seeking to stay and work in the country.
Business Visa (DN Visa): Issued to individuals working with Vietnam-based enterprises, the business visa is suitable for those engaged in business-related activities. It can be applied online or directly at the Vietnam embassy/consulate by the foreigners themselves.
Working Visa (LD Visa): Granted to individuals employed by Vietnam-based companies or offices, the working visa is specific to those undertaking employment within the country. The application process is initiated in Vietnam by the employing company and then finalized at the embassy in a foreign country by the individuals.
Business Visa (DN Visa): Foreigners can apply for a business visa independently, either online or directly at the Vietnam embassy/consulate in their home country.
Working Visa (LD Visa): The application for a working visa is typically initiated by the employing company within Vietnam. However, the final step, including stamping at the embassy in a foreign country, is carried out by the individuals themselves.
Business Visa (DN Visa): No work permit is required when applying for a business visa.
Working visa (LD Visa): A working visa application necessitates the possession of a valid work permit, emphasizing the employment nature of this visa category.
While a work permit is a prerequisite for obtaining a Vietnam working visa, it is not a requirement for a business visa
Business Visa (DN Visa): Business visas might have shorter validity periods compared to working visas.
Working visa (LD Visa): working visas often come with longer validity periods, and individuals holding working visas can apply for a temporary residence card, providing a more extended stay option compared to a business visa.
Business Visa (DN Visa): There is no option to apply for a temporary residence card when using a business visa.
Working visa (LD Visa): Holders of a working visa can apply for a temporary residence card. The temporary residence card provides an extended stay option and more convenience for those planning to work long-term in Vietnam. This is a significant advantage compared to a business visa.
Business Visa (DN Visa): Typically, it does not require a work permit and may involve certain specified fees.
Working visa (LD Visa): Requires a work permit and may involve various costs, including the temporary residence card fee.
If foreigners without work permits work at businesses in Vietnam, both the employee and the business will be fined. These forms of sanctions are clearly stipulated in Article 22 of Decree 88/2015/ND-CP as follows:
Workers who work in Vietnam but do not have a work permit as prescribed by law (except in cases not subject to a work permit) will be deported from Vietnam.
Enterprises utilizing workers without a work permit, lacking a certificate confirming their ineligibility for a work permit, or employing individuals with expired work permits will incur penalties.
The specific penalties for such violations will be imposed by the applicable regulations:
Monetary fine:
From 30,000,000 VND to 45,000,000 VND (1,300 - 1,900 USD) if the enterprises employ 1 to 10 workers without a work permit. Or they do not have a certificate confirming that they are not eligible for a work permit. Or even employ workers with expired work permits.
From 45,000,000 VND to 60,000,000 VND (1,900 - 2,600 USD) if the violation involves 11 to 20 people.
From 60,000,000 VND to 75,000,000 VND (2,600 - 3,200 USD) if the violation involves 21 people or more.
Suspension of operations from 1 month to 3 months for employers or businesses that commit the above violations.
Applying for a work permit is also an extremely important step for you to be able to work legally in Vietnam
According to the provisions of Article 156, Labor Code 2019, work permits expire in the following cases:
Work permit expired. In this case, if the employee is still holding the old position at the company, the business can apply to extend the work permit for that foreign worker. Work permits can only be extended once.
Terminate labor contract.
The content of the labor contract does not match the content of the issued work permit. In this case, the agency competent to issue work permits shall notify the employer in writing of the expiration of the work permit according to regulations.
Working inconsistently with the contents of the issued work permit.
Contracts in these fields are the basis for expired or terminated work permits.
There is a written notice from the foreign party to stop sending foreign workers to work in Vietnam.
Enterprises, organizations, Vietnamese partners, or foreign organizations in Vietnam that employ foreign workers terminate their operations.
Work permit revoked.
In this section, we address frequently asked questions (FAQs) regarding a Vietnam working visa to provide essential aspects individuals need to consider when seeking authorization to work in this country.
Yes, it is often possible to extend the validity of a working visa in Vietnam. The extension process typically involves submitting additional documentation and may vary based on the circumstances.
Yes, a valid work permit is generally required when applying for a Vietnam Working Visa. Exceptions may apply in certain cases, such as those covered by international treaties.
The processing time can vary, but it typically takes a few weeks. Factors such as visa type, documentation completeness, and other administrative processes can influence the processing time.
Yes, a job offer or sponsorship from a Vietnamese company is usually required to apply for a Working Visa. The sponsoring company initiates the application process on behalf of the foreign employee.
We are here to assist you in addressing any inquiries related to the Vietnam working visa
Changing employers may require updating the work permit and visa. The new employer would typically need to sponsor the employee for the necessary permits and documentation.
In general, there is no specific age limit for applying for a Vietnam Working Visa. Eligibility is primarily based on meeting the job-specific requirements and complying with immigration regulations.
It's essential to renew the work permit before it expires to maintain legal status. If the work permit expires, it could impact the validity of the Working Visa, and the individual may need to leave the country until the necessary documents are updated
Family members may apply for dependent visas to accompany the primary visa holder. The specific requirements and eligibility criteria may vary.
While holding a Working Visa, individuals can exit and re-enter Vietnam within the visa's validity period. However, it's crucial to check the visa's multiple-entry status and any specific conditions attached to it.
Starting to secure a Vietnam working visa requires a nuanced understanding of the intricacies involved. This exploration delves into pivotal considerations to bring indispensable insights.
Job offer and sponsorship: Ensure you have a legitimate job offer or sponsorship from a Vietnamese employer. The company will play a crucial role in initiating and supporting your visa application.
Work permit requirement: Recognize that a valid work permit is generally a prerequisite for obtaining a working visa in Vietnam. Collaborate closely with your employer to secure the necessary work permit.
Selecting the correct visa type: Choose the appropriate type of working visa based on your employment situation. Options include LD1 and LD2 visas, each designed for specific circumstances.
Document preparation: Thoroughly gather and prepare all required documents, including a valid passport, work permit, completed application forms, and any other supporting papers. Make sure of the accuracy and completeness of your documentation.
Visa application process: Be prepared to undergo the visa application process in Vietnam, with the final steps often involving the submission of documents at a Vietnamese embassy or consulate abroad.
Temporary Residence Card (TRC): If planning a long-term stay, consider applying for a Temporary Residence Card (TRC) alongside your working visa. The TRC provides extended stay options and additional conveniences.
Renewal and Extension: Understand the procedures for renewing or extending your working visa when necessary. Begin the renewal process well before the expiration date to prevent any interruptions in your legal status.
Compliance with regulations: Familiarize yourself with Vietnamese immigration laws and regulations. Ensure strict compliance with all requirements to avoid legal issues during your stay.
Exit and re-entry: If you plan to leave Vietnam temporarily and return, verify that your visa allows for re-entry. Arrange any necessary endorsements or extensions before departing the country.
The pursuit of a Vietnam Working Visa is a journey marked by essential steps and meticulous considerations. From understanding the visa types and eligibility criteria to navigating the application process, individuals aiming to work in Vietnam must be well-versed in the intricacies of the system.
By staying informed, maintaining compliance with regulations, and seeking timely renewals, applicants can ensure a smooth and successful experience. With these insights above, navigating the landscape of a Vietnam working visa becomes not only a legal necessity but a strategic endeavor.
If you encounter any challenges or concerns regarding your visa, rest assured that our dedicated team is here to assist you. Feel free to reach out to us at [email protected] for reliable and committed support. Get ready to explore the beauty of Vietnam!
