Vietnam’s work visa process is essential for any foreigner planning to work legally in the country. A Vietnam work visa (LD visa) is the official entry permit that authorizes foreign nationals to engage in employment activities within Vietnamese territory. To qualify for a work permit—a prerequisite for most work visas—applicants must be at least 18 years old, possess relevant technical qualifications, demonstrate good health, and have a clean criminal record.

While most professional positions require permits, certain categories are exempt, including short-term workers (under three months), company owners, and board members. The application journey typically involves gathering crucial documentation such as your passport, health certificate, criminal background check, professional qualifications, and a Vietnamese employment contract. Work permits are initially valid for up to 12 months but can be renewed based on your employment situation.

This comprehensive guide covers everything from visa types and duration to detailed application requirements and procedures. We’ll walk you through where to submit your application, associated fees, and answer frequently asked questions. For those seeking additional support, we also provide information on professional visa services to simplify your application process.

What is a Vietnam work visa for foreigners?

According to Law No. 51/2019/QH14 (2019), Vietnam work visa (LĐ visa) is issued by the Vietnamese Government to foreigners who have a Vietnamese work permit. There are two types: LD1 and LD2.

Work visas are different from tourist or business visas:

• Vietnam work visas let you stay up to 12 months (tourist visas usually allow only 30 days)
• Work visas are only for people with work permits
• Vietnam work visas allow you to work legally in Vietnam

Important things to know:

• If your passport expires soon, your visa will match your passport’s remaining time
• Chinese nationals can get work visas valid for up to 1 year only
• If you leave Vietnam before getting a temporary residence card, you’ll need a new Vietnam work visa to return

>>> For those seeking a quicker entry option, you might want to consider applying for a Vietnam work e-visa, which allows for a more streamlined application process.

Types of work visas available for foreigners in Vietnam

Current Vietnamese work visas are designated as LD1 and LD2, issued to foreign nationals who possess Types of work visas available for foreigners in Vietnam

Vietnam has two main types of work visas:

• LD1 visa: For foreigners who don’t need a work permit (exempt)
• LD2 visa: For foreigners who have a valid work permit

If you don’t qualify for a Vietnam work visa, you can still enter Vietnam through other ways:

• With a passport from a visa-exempt country
• By applying for an e-visa
• By getting a different type of Vietnam visa

Some travelers prefer to arrange a visa permission letter before their trip to simplify entry procedures, especially when planning to convert to a work visa later.

Essential documents needed for Vietnam work visa application

Work visa requirements for foreigners outside Vietnam

• Company business registration certificate (certified copy)
• Passport (valid for at least 6 months)
• Work permit (original or certified copy)
• NA2 form (for entry approval)
• Two 4×6cm photos with white background
• Introduction letter from your company
• Other documents as needed (qualifications, criminal records, health certificates)

>>> Before preparing your application photos, make sure to review the specific visa photo requirements to avoid rejection due to incorrect image specifications.

Vietnam work visa document checklist for foreigners already in Vietnam

• Company business registration certificate (certified copy)
• Passport with at least 6 months validity
• NA5 form (visa extension application)
• NA16 form (signature and seal form)
• Company introduction letter
• Temporary residence declaration copy
• Letter explaining why you need a visa extension
• Copy of company representative’s ID card

All documents must be in Vietnamese or have a certified Vietnamese translation.

How to apply for a work visa in Vietnam: Step-by-step process

Below are two procedures for foreign nationals applying for a Vietnamese work visa:

Vietnam work visa application process from abroad

Step 1. Get an entry approval letter

For foreigners applying from outside Vietnam, the first step is obtaining an entry approval letter:

• Your employing company in Vietnam must submit the application online through the national public service portal (https://dichvucong.gov.vn)
• Processing time typically takes 7-10 working days
• Once approved, the Immigration Department will issue an official approval letter

Step 2. Get your visa stamp

After receiving the approval letter, you have two options to get your actual visa stamp:

At Vietnamese Embassy/Consulate in your country:

• Processing usually takes 2-5 working days depending on the embassy
• Some consulates offer express service for an additional fee
• Visa fees vary by embassy/consulate and visa type (single/multiple entry)

At international airports in Vietnam

• Before traveling, ensure your employer has arranged for visa on arrival
• Upon arrival, proceed to the visa counter before passing through immigration
• Waiting time can range from 30 minutes to 2-3 hours during peak travel periods
• After receiving your visa, proceed to regular immigration counters

Vietnam work visa application process in Vietnam

Companies sponsoring foreign nationals applying for LD2 visa in Vietnam must prepare a document set Your company must prepare and submit these documents:

• Business registration certificate
• Your passport
• Visa extension application
• Other required forms and letters

Submit everything to the Immigration Department where your company operates.

>>> When applying in person, you’ll need to complete a Vietnam visa application form with accurate information to avoid processing delays.

Where to submit your Vietnam work visa application?

Vietnam work visa processing time and expectations

• Entry approval letter: 7-10 working days
• Visa stamping at embassy/consulate: 2-5 working days
• Visa stamping at airport: 2-3 hours (may be longer during busy times)
• Vietnam work visa extension for those in Vietnam: 5-7 working days

>>> For those arriving by air, the Vietnam work visa on arrival option can be convenient, allowing you to receive your visa directly at the airport upon landing with your pre-arranged approval letter.

Updated Vietnam work visa cost for foreigners

The above fees are for getting your visa stamped when you enter Vietnam. These are official government prices for all nationalities according to regulation number 25/2021/TT-BTC. If you apply for your visa at a Vietnamese Embassy or Consulate in another country, the fees might be different depending on your citizenship.

Frequently asked questions about work visas for foreigners

Vietnam work visa services by VisaNow

VisaNow specializes in Vietnam work visa services for foreign workers in Vietnam. We successfully process over 5,000+ individual visa applications and serve 1,000+ businesses annually across Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, Binh Duong, Dong Nai and Long An provinces.

• Comprehensive services: Beyond visa application support, temporary residence card processing and work permit services, VisaNow provides certified translation and consular legalization services.
• Dedicated support: Our professional consultants who are fluent in many different languages are ready to address all client inquiries with accuracy and thoroughness.
• Time-efficient solutions: VisaNow delivers end-to-end services, from document preparation and translation to notarization and submission through the public service portal. Clients using our services can maximize time savings and focus more on their personal objectives.
• Transparent pricing: We provide detailed pricing upfront with no hidden costs. Clients can easily select service packages that align with their budget.

For enterprises seeking reliable work visa services for foreign nationals, contact VisaNow immediately via HOTLINE 1900 63 63 50. We stand as your trusted partner in ensuring full compliance and protecting your interests throughout the visa process.