Vietnam Relaxes Work Permit Regulations for Foreigners: 7 Major Changes to Know

Vietnam has made significant changes to its work permit system, streamlining processes and reducing barriers for foreign workers. These updates aim to attract global talent and support key industries by making the application process faster and more efficient.

The recent decree marks the most substantial reform in work permit regulations since 2021. It focuses on simplifying procedures for both foreign workers and employers, ultimately enhancing the overall experience.

Key Changes to Work Permit Regulations

The new regulations introduce several improvements that streamline the work permit process for foreign workers. Here’s what you need to know:

1. Simplified Labour Market Test

Previously, employers had to post job openings for 15 days to prove no local candidates were available. Now, the rules are more flexible:

• Job postings are only necessary if hiring through the local route.
• The posting period has been cut down to just 5 business days.
• Employers can now use their platforms for job postings.

Why it matters: This change saves time, especially for companies transferring employees internally, speeding up overall hiring processes.

2. Streamlined Application Process

Vietnam has simplified the work permit application, reducing unnecessary steps:

• Job position approval is now part of the work permit application.
• Employers can apply for both the work permit and police clearance simultaneously.
• The labor contract only needs to be submitted upon request.
• Semi-annual reporting is no longer required.

Why it matters: Fewer steps mean less paperwork and fewer delays, making the process smoother for all parties involved.

3. Lower Eligibility Requirements

The criteria for obtaining a work permit have been relaxed:

• Experts now need only 2 years of relevant experience and a university degree, down from 3.
• For priority sectors like finance and tech, just 1 year of experience is sufficient.
• Technical workers must have 2 years of experience and 1 year of training, instead of 3-5 years.

Why it matters: These changes enable more foreign professionals to qualify, especially in high-demand fields.

4. Enhanced Work Permit Exemptions

The government has expanded exemptions that allow certain individuals to work without a permit:

• The previous limit of 3 short-term visits for foreigners has been removed.
• Foreigners can now work for up to 90 days a year without a permit.
• Spouses of Vietnamese nationals no longer require a Work Permit Exemption Certificate.

Why it matters: Short-term assignments are now more accessible, although spouses may face challenges in proving their right to work.

5. Working Across Multiple Locations

For foreign workers assigned to multiple provinces:

• Applications are processed through the Provincial People’s Committee of the company’s head office.
• Employers must inform authorities in each location where the employee will work.

Why it matters: While this simplifies the process, it remains unclear how it will function for workers at non-company-owned sites.

6. Stricter Health Certificate Regulations

Vietnam will accept health certificates from foreign doctors only if a mutual agreement exists with that country.

Why it matters: Without such agreements, foreign workers may need to travel to Vietnam for medical checks, complicating the process.

7. Clearer Processing Timelines

The new decree establishes firm deadlines for work permit applications:

• New Work Permit or Exemption: Apply 10 business days prior; processing takes 10 business days.
• Renewal of Work Permit or Exemption: Apply 10 business days before expiry; processing takes 5 business days.

Why it matters: Set timelines eliminate uncertainty regarding application timing and processing duration.

Conclusion

These recent updates reflect Vietnam’s commitment to attracting skilled foreign workers while reducing bureaucratic obstacles. The changes facilitate easier operations for companies in sectors like technology, science, and finance. If you’re considering a move to Vietnam or planning to hire foreign talent, now is an excellent time to explore these new opportunities.