Work Permits for Foreigners in Vietnam (2026)

Foreign-invested companies and firms hiring foreign experts both need to understand Vietnam's work-permit rules. Working without a permit (when not exempt) can lead to penalties and deportation.

Who needs a work permit

Under Decree 152/2020 (as amended by Decree 70/2023), foreigners working in Vietnam under a labour contract, intra-company transfer or other forms generally need a work permit unless exempt. Beforehand, the employer must obtain approval of its demand to use foreign workers.

Exemptions

Some cases are exempt (though a confirmation of exemption is still required), for example: an owner/capital-contributing member of an LLC or a chairman/board member of a joint-stock company meeting the prescribed capital level; the chief of a representative office; experts entering briefly to handle incidents; and certain positions under international treaties. Specific conditions follow the current regulations.

Conditions, term and procedure

The worker must meet the qualification/experience requirements for the role (manager, executive director, expert, technical worker), be in good health and have a clean criminal record. The permit runs for a maximum of 2 years and is issued by the provincial Department of Labour, Invalids and Social Affairs (or the industrial-zone authority). With the permit, the worker then obtains a matching temporary residence card.

Frequently asked questions

Does a capital-contributing investor need a work permit?

They may be exempt if they are an owner/capital-contributing member or board member meeting the prescribed capital level; a confirmation of exemption is still needed.

How long is a work permit valid?

Up to 2 years, renewable once under the regulations.

With a work permit, do I still need a residence card?

Yes. The work permit is the basis for a temporary residence card covering the working period.

How LTV Law helps

LTV Law handles foreign-labour demand approval, work-permit issuance/exemption and temporary residence cards for foreign experts. Contact our team.

This article is for general information only and does not constitute legal advice.