🌍 In today’s global workforce, Vietnam is an emerging hub for foreign experts and multinational companies. But before working legally in Vietnam, foreign employees must secure a Work Permit – a critical requirement under Vietnamese labor law.
Let’s explore what a Work Permit is, who needs it, and how DHH Law Firm can help you secure legal working status in Vietnam smoothly and efficiently.
1. WHAT IS A WORK PERMIT IN VIETNAM?
📌 A Work Permit is an official document issued by the Vietnamese Department of Labor, Invalids and Social Affairs (DoLISA), allowing foreign nationals to legally work in Vietnam.
As per Decree No. 152/2020/ND-CP and Labor Code 2019:
- It is required for most foreigners working in Vietnam for more than 30 days.
- It specifies job title, employer, location, and duration of employment.
- Valid for up to 2 years and renewable once.
- Without it, employment is considered illegal, subject to fines and deportation.
2. WHO NEEDS A WORK PERMIT?
🔹 Mandatory for:
- Foreign experts, managers, executives, and technical workers.
- Assigned by overseas companies or recruited locally by Vietnamese enterprises.
🔹 Exemptions apply for:
- Foreigners working under less than 30 cumulative days and less than 3 times/year.
- Certain internal transfers, students, or volunteers – with proper documentation.
🧾 Legal basis: Articles 151–154, Labor Code 2019 & Decree 152/2020/ND-CP
3. WHY OBTAIN A WORK PERMIT?
✅ Legal Compliance – Zero Risk
Avoid heavy fines, deportation, or business suspension for non-compliance.
✅ Unlock TRC and Long-Term Benefits
Eligible for Temporary Residence Card (TRC) – no visa runs.
Open bank accounts, lease properties, register vehicles legally.
✅ Professional Standing
Being licensed enhances your credibility with partners and clients.
4. WORK PERMIT APPLICATION PROCESS IN VIETNAM
📝 The process generally includes:
- Approval of demand for foreign labor (submitted by employer)
- Application submission to DoLISA with full dossier
- Permit issuance if conditions are met
📄 Required documents (common list):
✔️ Passport (notarized + valid > 2 years)
✔️ Degree or relevant qualifications (consular legalized)
✔️ Work experience letter (at least 3 years)
✔️ Medical certificate (within 12 months)
✔️ Criminal record (from home country or Vietnam)
✔️ Employer’s license and job description
Processing time: ⏱️ 7–15 working days (after complete submission)
5. HOW DHH LAW FIRM CAN HELP YOU GET YOUR WORK PERMIT
🧑⚖️ DHH Law Firm offers full-service assistance from A–Z:
📂 Dossier preparation, review, and translation
🏛️ Representing clients at labor departments nationwide
⛔ Handling appeal or renewal if rejected or expired
📌 Advising on exemption eligibility or TRC conversion
📍 Main Office: Floor 2, 829 Huynh Tan Phat Street, Phu Thuan Ward, Ho Chi Minh City
📍 Branch Office: 6th Floor, No. 16, Alley 204, Tran Duy Hung Street, Dai Mo Ward, Hanoi City
☎️ Hotline: +84 89 9352 777 (VN) / +84 89 9351 777 (ENG)
🌐 Website: www.dhhlawfirm.vn
