For anyone planning to live, study, or work abroad, the time it takes to obtain a visa or permit is a crucial factor to consider. Different types of permits or visas have their own procedures and processing times depending on the country, administrative requirements, and complexity of the application. Understanding these aspects helps you plan more proactively and avoid delays. In this article, FTA LAW will guide you through the processing time for a work permit in Vietnam and how to prepare an effective application.
1. What is a work permit in Vietnam?
A work permit in Vietnam is a long-term document issued to foreign nationals who intend to work in the country. It is granted based on the possession of a valid work authorization or under exemption conditions defined by Vietnamese law.
1.1. Conditions for obtaining a work permit
Although Vietnamese law does not use the exact term “work permit visa,” the 2014 Law on Entry, Exit, Transit, and Residence of Foreigners in Vietnam (amended in 2019) refers to work-related visas under codes LD1 and LD2.
According to Article 10 of the law, the general requirements to obtain a work permit-related visa include:
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A valid passport or internationally recognized travel document.
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A Vietnamese organization, agency, or individual acting as sponsor (except in specific cases under Articles 16a, 16b, and Clause 3, Article 17).
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The applicant must not fall under any entry prohibition cases as listed in Article 21.
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A valid work permit issued in accordance with the Vietnamese Labor Code.
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Eligible individuals may apply for an e-visa unless they fall under the excluded categories outlined in Article 8.
Image: A sample work permit that allows foreigners to work legally in Vietnam
2. Work permit application process for foreigners in Vietnam
Based on Article 16 of the Law on Entry, Exit, Transit, and Residence of Foreigners (amended 2019) and Circular No. 31/2015/TT-BCA, the process is as follows:
Step 1: Before sponsoring a foreign worker, the Vietnamese entity (company, agency, or individual) must submit a notice and application documents to the Immigration Department. This is only required once unless the information changes.
Step 2: The sponsor submits an official request for visa issuance to the Immigration Department. This may be done online via the official immigration portal if conditions are met.
Step 3: Within 5 working days, the Immigration Department will review the application, notify the sponsor, and send a notice to the Vietnamese diplomatic mission abroad for visa issuance.
Step 4: Upon approval, the sponsor notifies the foreign national to complete the visa stamping procedure at a Vietnamese embassy or consulate in their country of residence.
Image: 4-step workflow diagram of the work permit visa application process.
3. Factors that affect work permit processing time
The time it takes to obtain a work permit varies based on several factors, including the type of work permit, legal requirements of each country, and how the application is submitted. Being aware of these factors can help reduce delays and streamline your process.
3.1. Type of work permit affects processing time
Even within the category of work permits, the processing duration differs by country and employment purpose. Some nations issue multiple work permit types depending on the worker’s skill level, industry, or length of employment.
For example, short-term work permits are often processed faster than long-term ones or those requiring detailed background checks and proof of professional qualifications or employer sponsorship.
If additional documents are required—such as a criminal background check, proof of work experience, or labor contracts—processing may take extra days or even weeks.
3.2. Country-specific regulations influence processing time
Every country has its own set of rules for foreign workers, which directly impacts the time it takes to get it.
Some countries have streamlined systems that allow for online submissions via e-visa platforms and process applications in just 3–7 working days. Others may require paper applications, in-person interviews, or extensive checks on health, skills, or criminal history—extending the process to 10–30 working days or more if the documents need to be verified.
Additionally, if the destination country has a bilateral labor agreement with Vietnam, the review process may be faster and more favorable for Vietnamese applicants.
Image: Infographic showing factors influencing work permit processing time.
4. Conclusion
Applying for a work permit to legally work in Vietnam requires thorough preparation, compliance with the proper procedures, and a good understanding of legal requirements. Processing times vary depending on the type of permit, the application method, and related administrative policies. To avoid unnecessary delays and ensure compliance, it’s important to consult credible sources or seek help from professional legal service providers. At FTA LAW, our experienced legal consultants are here to guide you through every step —making it more efficient and stress-free.
Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is for reference only and does not constitute official legal advice from FTA LAW. If you have questions about your specific case, please contact us at support@ftalaw.vn – We’re always ready to listen and assist.