Guide to Obtaining a Vietnam Work Visa for Foreigners

Introduction

The number of foreigners coming to Vietnam for long-term employment is steadily increasing. To legally work in Vietnam, they must obtain a work visa (LD visa). This article provides a comprehensive guide on securing a Vietnam work visa and essential related information.

Overview of the Vietnam Work Visa

Vietnam offers two types of work visas for foreigners:

• LD1 Visa – Issued to foreigners who are exempt from work permits under specific regulations or international treaties to which Vietnam is a member.
• LD2 Visa – Issued to foreigners who are required to obtain a work permit.

A Vietnam work visa is valid for up to two years and can be extended. However, if the work permit is valid for less than one year, the corresponding work visa will have the same validity period as the work permit.

Legal Basis for the Vietnam Work Visa

The legal framework for work visas in Vietnam is based on the following regulations:

• Law No. 47/2014/QH13 on entry, exit, transit, and residence of foreigners in Vietnam.
• Law No. 51/2019/QH14, which amends and supplements provisions of Law No. 47/2014/QH13.
• Circular No. 04/2015/TT-BCA, which provides regulations on documents for foreigners entering, leaving, and residing in Vietnam.
• Decree No. 11/2016/ND-CP, which outlines the issuance of work permits to foreign workers in Vietnam and the expulsion of those working without a permit.

How to Obtain a Vietnam Work Visa

Both the foreign worker and the employer in Vietnam must follow these five steps to obtain a work visa:

Step 1: Employer Prepares Required Documents

The Vietnam-based company sponsoring the foreign employee must prepare the following documents:

• A valid operation license of the company (e.g., Business Registration Certificate, Investment License, or Branch/Representative Office License).
• Certificate of Seal Specimen or Statement of Seal Use by the company.
• Form NA16 – Registration form for the seal and signature of the company's legal representative.
• Form NA5 – Application for a visa, visa extension, or extension of stay for foreigners in Vietnam. [Download it here].
• One 3x4 cm photo of the applicant.
• A valid work permit or work permit exemption certificate.
• A copy of the applicant's valid passport.

Step 2: Submit the Application

The company’s representative must submit the required documents to either:

• The Vietnam Immigration Department.
• The Immigration Office under the Department of Public Security in the city/province where the company is based.

After submission and payment of the visa fee, an appointment note will be issued, specifying the expected date for the visa processing result.

📌 If the foreign employee opts to collect the visa at a Vietnam embassy/consulate abroad, an additional fax fee applies.

⏳ Processing Hours: Monday to Friday, and Saturday morning.

Step 3: Receive the Visa Approval Letter

On the scheduled date, the company’s representative must visit the Immigration Department/Office to collect the visa approval letter (if approved).

Step 4: Notify the Foreign Employee

Once the visa approval letter is received, the employer must inform the foreign worker via email, fax, or courier.

Step 5: Visa Stamping and Fee Payment

The foreign worker must visit the Vietnam embassy/consulate in their home country and present:

• Form NA1 – Vietnamese Visa Application (attached with a 3x4 cm photo).
• Original valid passport.
• Copy of the visa approval letter issued by the Immigration Department/Office.
• Payment for the visa stamping fee, as determined by the embassy/consulate.

Upon approval, the visa will be stamped onto the passport.

Processing Time for a Vietnam Work Visa

The Vietnam Immigration Department/Office typically processes work visa applications within five working days after receiving all required documents.

Vietnam Work Visa vs. Vietnam Business Visa

Many foreigners confuse work visas with business visas, but they are distinct:

Conclusion

Obtaining a Vietnam work visa requires careful preparation and adherence to legal requirements. Employers and foreign workers must follow the application steps and ensure all necessary documents are submitted. By securing the appropriate visa, foreigners can work legally and enjoy a stable career in Vietnam.