Vietnam Working Visa

1. What is a Vietnam Working Visa?

A Vietnam Working Visa (also known as a Work Visa, LD Visa, or LĐ Visa) is a legal document that allows foreigners to work in Vietnam for a specific employer. This visa is required for any foreign individual who wants to work legally in Vietnam and is usually issued for a period of up to two years.

2. Types of Vietnam Working Visas

Vietnam offers different types of visas depending on the work purpose:

1. LD1 Visa – For foreigners working in Vietnam who are exempt from work permits.
2. LD2 Visa – For foreigners who require a work permit to work in Vietnam.

Both visas are typically valid for up to 2 years and are granted based on an employer’s sponsorship.

3. Requirements for a Vietnam Work Visa

To obtain a Vietnam working visa, you must meet the following requirements:

• A valid passport (at least 6 months of validity and two blank pages).
• A work permit (unless exempted).
• A sponsoring company or employer in Vietnam.
• Health check certificate.
• Criminal record certificate (from home country or Vietnam).
• Passport-sized photos (as per Vietnam’s visa photo requirements).

4. How to Apply for a Vietnam Work Visa

The process of obtaining a Vietnam working visa involves the following steps:

1. Obtain a Work Permit (if required) – Your employer in Vietnam must apply for a work permit for you before the visa application.
2. Visa Approval Letter – Your employer applies for a visa approval letter from the Vietnam Immigration Department.
3. Visa Issuance – Once the approval letter is granted, you can get your work visa stamped at a Vietnamese embassy/consulate abroad or upon arrival in Vietnam.

5. Vietnam Work Permit vs. Work Visa

It’s important to differentiate between a work visa and a work permit:

• A work visa allows you to enter and stay in Vietnam for work purposes.
• A work permit is a separate document that grants you permission to work legally in Vietnam. You cannot work in Vietnam without a work permit unless you are exempt.

6. Work Visa Fees

The cost of a Vietnam working visa varies based on validity:

• 3 months (single entry): $95 – $135
• 3 months (multiple entries): $145 – $190
• 6 months – 1 year: Fees depend on the embassy or visa service provider.

7. Renewing or Extending a Vietnam Work Visa

If you wish to continue working in Vietnam after your visa expires, you need to either:

1. Apply for a visa extension (if eligible).
2. Exit Vietnam and reapply for a new work visa.
3. Convert your visa status if your employer changes.

8. Conclusion

A Vietnam Working Visa is essential for any foreigner planning to work in Vietnam legally. Make sure you meet the requirements and work with your employer to obtain the necessary permits. If you’re unsure about the process, consulting with a visa agency or your employer’s HR department is advisable.

For more information, always check the latest updates from the Vietnam Immigration Department or your local Vietnamese Embassy.

Need help with your Vietnam Work Visa? Contact a licensed visa agency or your employer for assistance!