Traveling and Working in Vietnam – What You Need to Know

Vietnam has become an increasingly attractive destination for both travelers and professionals, thanks to its welcoming visa policies and clear regulations for foreign workers. Whether you’re planning a short visit or considering a longer stay for work, understanding the entry and employment requirements is essential.

For tourists, Vietnam offers several visa options. Citizens from countries like South Korea, Japan, the UK, and several EU nations can enjoy visa-free entry for up to 45 days. Meanwhile, travelers from Southeast Asian countries such as Thailand, Singapore, and Indonesia benefit from a 30-day exemption under bilateral agreements. Regardless of exemption status, visitors must ensure their passport is valid for at least six months, have proof of onward travel, and not be subject to any entry bans.

If you’re not eligible for visa exemption, the E-visa program is a convenient alternative. Available to citizens of over 80 countries, it allows for single or multiple entries of up to 90 days. The application process is straightforward—just visit the official portal, upload your documents, fill in your travel details, and pay the fee. You can then track your application using a unique code.

For those traveling for business or family reasons who don’t qualify for the above options, an Entry Approval Letter may be necessary. This document, arranged by a sponsor in Vietnam, is issued by the Immigration Department and allows you to apply for a visa either at a Vietnamese embassy or upon arrival. It’s important to note that this letter is not a visa itself but a prerequisite for obtaining one.

If you’re planning to work in Vietnam, the legal requirements are more involved. Foreign nationals must secure both a Work Permit and a Temporary Residence Card (TRC). The Work Permit is mandatory for professionals such as managers, specialists, and technical workers, as well as those transferred internally within companies or working under service contracts. Applicants must be at least 18 years old, possess relevant qualifications and experience, meet health standards, and have a clean legal record.

The process begins with the employer posting the job publicly to confirm no local candidate is available. Then, a labor demand approval request is submitted to local authorities. Once approved, the employer can file the full application with the Department of Labor.

Following the issuance of a Work Permit, foreign employees can apply for a TRC, which allows for a stay of one to two years. The application must be submitted by the sponsoring company, either directly to the Immigration Department or online via the National Public Service Portal. Processing typically takes five working days, and the government fee is around 145 USD.

As always, it’s wise to check the latest updates from official sources, as policies and procedures may change. For the most accurate information, consult the Vietnam Immigration website or contact your nearest Vietnamese embassy or consulate.

The above content is provided for informational purposes only. The provision of this article does not create an attorney-client relationship between D’Andrea & Partners and the reader and does not constitute legal advice. Legal advice must be tailored to the specific circumstances of each case, and the contents of this article are not a substitute for legal counsel.