Foreign teachers working in Vietnam have access to embassy support from 90+ countries across Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, and Da Nang. Your embassy provides critical emergency assistance available 24/7, work permit document authentication typically processed within 3-5 working days, passport renewal services taking 2-3 weeks, and legal support for employment issues. Native English-speaking countries maintain multiple locations: the United States operates embassies at 7 Lang Ha Street, Hanoi (+84-24-3850-5000) and 4 Le Duan Boulevard, Ho Chi Minh City (+84-28-3520-4200), while the United Kingdom has offices at Central Building, 31 Hai Ba Trung, Hanoi (+84-24-3936-0500) and 25 Le Duan Street, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City (+84-28-3825-1380). All locations provide emergency hotlines operating 24 hours daily, standard office hours Monday-Friday 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM, and essential services including notarial authentication, emergency travel documents issued within 1-5 working days, and consular support for arrests, medical emergencies, or passport loss.
Understanding your embassy’s location and services protects your legal status and provides crucial support when navigating Vietnam’s complex administrative requirements for work permits, visa extensions, and employment documentation.
Where Are the Native English-Speaking Country Embassies Located in Vietnam?
Native English-speaking countries operate 7 primary embassy locations in Vietnam: the United States and United Kingdom each maintain offices in both Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City, Ireland operates from Hanoi only at 2nd floor, 41A Ly Thai To Street (+84-24-3974-3291), and New Zealand maintains locations in Hanoi at Level 5, 63 Ly Thai To Street (+84-24-3824-1481) and Ho Chi Minh City. These embassies provide comprehensive support for foreign teachers including passport services, emergency assistance, work permit document authentication, and legal referrals.
Complete Contact Directory: Native English-Speaking Embassies
| Country | Hanoi Location | Hanoi Phone | HCMC Location | HCMC Phone |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| United States | 7 Lang Ha Street | +84-24-3850-5000 | 4 Le Duan Blvd, District 1 | +84-28-3520-4200 |
| United Kingdom | Central Building, 4th floor, 31 Hai Ba Trung | +84-24-3936-0500 | 25 Le Duan Street, District 1 | +84-28-3825-1380 |
| Ireland | 2nd floor, 41A Ly Thai To, Hoan Kiem District | +84-24-3974-3291 | No office | – |
| New Zealand | Level 5, 63 Ly Thai To, Hoan Kiem District | +84-24-3824-1481 | Suite 804, 235 Dong Khoi St, District 1 | +84-28-3822-6907 |
Office Hours: Most embassies operate Monday-Friday 8:30 AM to 5:00 PM with lunch breaks from 12:00-1:00 PM. Emergency hotlines function 24/7 at the same contact numbers.
For comprehensive details on Australian and Canadian embassy services, foreign teachers should reference specialized guides covering their unique jurisdictional areas and documentation requirements specific to Australian Embassy and Consulate in Vietnam: Contact Information & Locations.
What Is the Contact Information for the U.S. Embassy and Consulate in Vietnam?
The U.S. Embassy in Hanoi operates from 7 Lang Ha Street with phone +84-24-3850-5000, while the Consulate General in Ho Chi Minh City is located at 4 Le Duan Boulevard, District 1, phone +84-28-3520-4200. Both locations provide 24/7 emergency assistance for American citizens, with standard office hours 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM Monday-Friday.
U.S. Embassy Hanoi Details
- Address: 7 Lang Ha Street, Ba Dinh District, Hanoi
- Main Phone: +84-24-3850-5000 (24/7 emergency line)
- Office Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Consular Section: Rose Garden Building, Second Floor, 170 Ngoc Khanh Street
Services Available:
- Passport renewal and replacement (2-3 weeks standard processing)
- Emergency passport issuance (1-3 working days, additional fee $60)
- Notarial services by appointment ($50 per document)
- Document authentication for work permits
- Emergency assistance for arrests, hospitalization, or death of U.S. citizens
- Federal Benefits distribution
U.S. Consulate General Ho Chi Minh City
- Address: 4 Le Duan Boulevard, Sai Gon Ward, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City
- Main Phone: +84-28-3520-4200 (24/7 emergency line)
- Alternative Emergency: +84-28-3520-4600
- Office Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Jurisdiction: The Hanoi Embassy covers northern Vietnam including Ha Long Bay, Sapa, and Hai Phong. The Ho Chi Minh City Consulate covers southern Vietnam including Da Nang, Nha Trang, and Can Tho from Hue southward.
Emergency Contact Protocol: For genuine emergencies outside office hours (arrest, serious injury, death, lost passport with immediate travel), call the 24/7 numbers above. Staff will provide instructions for reaching the duty officer.
How Can I Contact the British Embassy and Consulate in Vietnam?
The British Embassy in Hanoi is located at Central Building, 4th floor, 31 Hai Ba Trung (phone +84-24-3936-0500), and the Consulate General in Ho Chi Minh City operates from 25 Le Duan Street, District 1 (phone +84-28-3825-1380). Emergency assistance is available 24/7 at both numbers, with standard office hours Monday-Thursday 8:30 AM to 4:45 PM and Friday 8:30 AM to 3:00 PM.
British Embassy Hanoi
- Address: Central Building, 4th floor, 31 Hai Ba Trung, Ba Dinh District, Hanoi
- Phone: +84-24-3936-0500 (24/7 emergency and general inquiries)
- Office Hours:
- Monday-Thursday: 8:30 AM – 12:30 PM & 1:30 PM – 4:45 PM
- Friday: 8:30 AM – 12:30 PM & 1:00 PM – 3:00 PM
Emergency Contact from UK: If calling from the United Kingdom, dial +44-20-7008-5000 (operates 24/7, 365 days annually).
British Consulate General Ho Chi Minh City
- Address: 25 Le Duan Street, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City
- Phone: +84-28-3825-1380 (24/7 emergency line)
- Fax: +84-28-3822-1971 (Commercial & Management sections)
- Office Hours: Same as Hanoi Embassy
Services Provided:
- Passport Services: Renewal, replacement, emergency travel documents (appointment required via GOV.UK portal)
- Notarial Services: Document certification, signature authentication by appointment
- Emergency Support: 24/7 assistance for arrests, serious illness, death, or lost passports
- Document Legalization: Authentication of UK documents for Vietnamese authorities
- Marriage Registration: Same-sex marriages between British nationals and non-Vietnamese nationals
Important: Both the Hanoi Embassy and Ho Chi Minh City Consulate provide identical services. Book appointments through the official GOV.UK website before visiting for routine services. Walk-ins accepted only for genuine emergencies.
Where Is the Embassy of Ireland Located in Vietnam?
The Embassy of Ireland operates exclusively from 2nd floor, 41A Ly Thai To Street, Hoan Kiem District, Hanoi (phone +84-24-3974-3291), with no consulate in Ho Chi Minh City. Office hours are 9:00 AM to 4:30 PM Monday-Friday with lunch break 12:00 PM to 1:00 PM, serving all Irish citizens throughout Vietnam.
Irish Embassy Hanoi Details
- Address: 2nd floor, 41A Ly Thai To Street, Hoan Kiem District, Hanoi
- Phone: +84-24-3974-3291 (24/7 emergency contact)
- Office Hours: Monday-Friday, 9:00 AM – 4:30 PM (lunch break 12:00-1:00 PM)
- Location Note: The embassy shares a building with the Embassy of Argentina, located one block from Hoan Kiem Lake in central Hanoi.
Emergency Contact After Hours: If you require assistance during a genuine emergency while the embassy is closed, call +84-24-3974-3291 for instructions on contacting the duty consular officer. Alternatively, contact the Duty Officer at the Department of Foreign Affairs in Dublin at +353-1-408-2000.
Services Available:
- Passport applications and renewals (online renewal now available)
- Emergency travel documents for lost or stolen passports
- Notarial services by appointment
- Document authentication for work permits
- Consular assistance for arrests, hospitalization, or emergency situations
- Birth and death registration
Critical Note for Southern Vietnam: Irish citizens in Ho Chi Minh City, Da Nang, or southern regions must contact the Hanoi embassy for all consular services. No consular office operates in southern Vietnam. For passport loss or emergency in southern Vietnam, expect travel to Hanoi or extended processing times for document courier services.
What Are the Contact Details for the New Zealand Embassy and Consulate in Vietnam?
The New Zealand Embassy in Hanoi is at Level 5, 63 Ly Thai To Street, Hoan Kiem District (phone +84-24-3824-1481), with a Consulate General in Ho Chi Minh City at Suite 804, Level 8, The Metropolitan Building, 235 Dong Khoi Street, District 1 (phone +84-28-3822-6907). Both locations operate 8:30 AM to 5:00 PM Monday-Friday with lunch break 1:00-2:00 PM.
New Zealand Embassy Hanoi
- Address: Level 5, 63 Ly Thai To Street, Hoan Kiem District, Hanoi
- Phone: +84-24-3824-1481
- Fax: +84-24-3824-1480
- Email: nzembassy.hanoi@mft.net.nz
- Office Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:30 AM – 12:00 PM & 1:00 PM – 5:00 PM
New Zealand Consulate General Ho Chi Minh City
- Address: Suite 804, Level 8, The Metropolitan Building, 235 Dong Khoi Street, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City
- Phone: +84-28-3822-6907
- Email: nzconsulate.hcmc@nzte.govt.nz
- Office Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:30 AM – 12:00 PM & 1:00 PM – 5:00 PM
Services Provided:
- Passport renewals and replacements
- Notarial and documentary services (witnessing affidavits, statutory declarations)
- Emergency assistance for New Zealand citizens
- Document authentication for Vietnamese authorities
- Visa information for travel to New Zealand
Jurisdiction: The Hanoi Embassy serves as the primary diplomatic mission, with the Ho Chi Minh City Consulate General providing consular support for southern Vietnam.
Where Can I Find Other Major Embassy Locations in Vietnam?
Major developed nations maintain multiple embassy locations across Vietnam to serve their citizens. Germany operates from 27 Tran Phu Street, Hanoi (+84-24-3267-3335) and 33 Le Duan Street, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City (+84-28-3828-8100). France has embassies at 57 Tran Hung Dao, Hanoi (+84-24-3944-5700) and 27 Nguyen Thi Minh Khai, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City (+84-28-3520-6800). Japan maintains three locations: 27 Lieu Giai Street, Hanoi (+84-24-3846-3000), 261 Dien Bien Phu, District 3, Ho Chi Minh City (+84-28-3933-3510), and Da Nang. South Korea similarly operates from three cities.
Selected Major Embassy Contact Information
| Country | Hanoi Location | HCMC Location | Da Nang Location |
|---|---|---|---|
| Germany | 27 Tran Phu St +84-24-3267-3335 | 33 Le Duan St, Dist 1 +84-28-3828-8100 | – |
| France | 57 Tran Hung Dao +84-24-3944-5700 | 27 Nguyen Thi Minh Khai +84-28-3520-6800 | – |
| Japan | 27 Lieu Giai St +84-24-3846-3000 | 261 Dien Bien Phu, Dist 3 +84-28-3933-3510 | Available |
| South Korea | SQ4 Diplomatic Complex +84-24-3831-5110 | 107 Nguyen Du, Dist 1 +84-28-3822-5757 | Available |
Standard Office Hours: Most embassies operate 8:30 AM to 12:00 PM and 1:30 PM to 5:00 PM Monday-Friday. Many close for lunch breaks and observe both Vietnamese holidays (Tet, National Day September 2, Liberation Day April 30) and home country holidays.
Important for Canadian Citizens: For detailed information about Canadian embassy services, document authentication procedures, and emergency protocols specific to Canadian nationals teaching in Vietnam, reference the comprehensive guide at Canadian Embassy in Vietnam: Services and Contacts.
Verification Reminder: Embassy contact information occasionally changes due to relocations or administrative updates. Before visiting any embassy, verify current addresses and phone numbers through official government websites (.gov, .go, or country-specific domains) to ensure accuracy.
What Services Do Embassies Provide for Foreign Teachers in Vietnam?
Embassies provide seven essential services for foreign teachers: passport renewal processed within 2-3 weeks standard or 1 week expedited for additional $60 fee, emergency assistance via 24/7 hotlines for arrests or medical crises, work permit document authentication taking 3-5 working days at costs $50-$85 per document, notarial services for marriage certificates and police clearances at $50 per document, visa issue resolution, emergency travel documents issued within 1-5 working days, and legal referrals for employment disputes at rates $150-$300 per hour.
1. Passport Services
Renewal Process:
- Standard Processing: 2-3 weeks from application submission
- Expedited Service: 1 week (additional $60-$85 fee varies by country)
- Required Documents: Current passport (even if expired), completed application form, two recent passport photos (white background, no glasses), payment ($130-$165 for most countries), proof of Vietnam residence (work permit or visa)
- Application Method: Most embassies require online appointment booking before in-person submission
Emergency Passport:
- Processing Time: 1-5 working days depending on urgency
- Cost: $140-$185 (includes urgency fee)
- Validity: Limited validity emergency travel documents allow single journey; standard passport required after returning home
- Vietnam Exit Requirements: Immigration Department exit visa needed when departing Vietnam on emergency travel document (5 working days processing)
2. Emergency Assistance (24/7 Available)
Qualifying Emergencies:
- Arrest or detention by Vietnamese authorities
- Serious injury or illness requiring hospitalization
- Death of a citizen abroad
- Lost or stolen passport with immediate travel needs (within 24-48 hours)
- Threat to personal safety or security
- Natural disasters or political unrest
What Embassies Can Do:
- Provide list of English-speaking lawyers and medical facilities
- Contact family or employers on your behalf
- Issue emergency travel documents
- Visit citizens detained in prison or hospital
- Facilitate money transfers from family (Department of State OCS Trust process, $30 fee)
- Provide information about local legal and medical systems
What Embassies Cannot Do:
- Intervene in legal proceedings or prevent arrest
- Pay legal fees, medical bills, or outstanding salaries
- Force employers to honor contracts or pay wages
- Provide accommodation or financial support (except emergency repatriation loans)
- Override Vietnamese immigration decisions on visas or deportations
3. Work Permit Document Authentication
Required Documents for Vietnam Work Permits:
- Degree Certificates: Bachelor’s or higher from recognized university
- Authentication Cost: $50-$85 per document
- Processing Time: 3-5 working days
- Police Clearance Certificates: Criminal background check from home country
- Cost: $20-$30
- Validity: Typically 6 months from issuance date
- Birth Certificates: Some work permit applications require birth certificate authentication
Authentication Process:
- Contact embassy to book notarial services appointment
- Bring original documents and photocopies
- Embassy certifies documents as genuine
- Pay authentication fee (cash or card depending on embassy)
- Collect authenticated documents after processing period
- Submit to Vietnamese Ministry of Foreign Affairs for legalization (additional step required)
4. Notarial Services
Available Services:
- Signature witnessing on legal documents
- Certified copies of passports and national identification
- Affidavits and statutory declarations
- Powers of attorney
- Name change documentation
Cost: $50-$70 per notarial act
Requirements: Valid passport, appointment (walk-ins typically not accepted), completed forms
5. Document Legalization
For Vietnamese Authorities: Documents authenticated by your embassy typically require additional legalization by Vietnam’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs Consular Department before Vietnamese authorities accept them. Budget extra 3-5 working days and VND 200,000-500,000 for this step.
6. Marriage and Civil Partnership Registration
Embassies can register marriages between their citizens and facilitate the complex documentation required for Vietnamese marriage registration. This service is particularly important for teachers marrying Vietnamese nationals, as proper documentation affects visa status and spousal employment rights.
7. Legal and Medical Referrals
While embassies cannot provide legal representation, they maintain lists of:
- English-speaking lawyers (typical rates $150-$300 per hour)
- International hospitals and clinics with English-speaking staff
- Translators and interpreters
- Funeral directors (in case of death)
How Do I Contact My Embassy in an Emergency While in Vietnam?
For emergencies, call your embassy’s 24/7 hotline immediately: U.S. +84-24-3850-5000 (Hanoi) or +84-28-3520-4200 (HCMC), UK +84-24-3936-0500 (Hanoi) or +84-28-3825-1380 (HCMC). An emergency is defined as: arrest or detention, serious injury or illness requiring hospitalization, death of a citizen, lost or stolen passport with travel within 24-48 hours, or immediate threat to personal safety. Non-emergencies including routine visa questions, general travel advice, or appointment scheduling should wait for standard office hours Monday-Friday 8:30 AM to 5:00 PM.
Step-by-Step Emergency Contact Procedure
1. Assess the Situation
Genuine emergencies only:
- You have been arrested or detained
- You or a fellow citizen is hospitalized with serious injury or illness
- A citizen has died
- Your passport was stolen and you must travel within 24-48 hours
- You face immediate physical danger
2. Call the 24/7 Emergency Hotline
Have ready:
- Your passport number and nationality
- Current location address in Vietnam
- Brief description of emergency
- Contact phone number where embassy can reach you
- Names of other people involved (if applicable)
3. Follow Instructions from Duty Officer
The embassy duty officer will:
- Verify the emergency nature of your situation
- Provide immediate guidance on next steps
- Arrange in-person assistance if warranted
- Connect you with local authorities if needed
- Schedule follow-up contact
4. What Happens Next
For arrests: Embassy will send consular officer to visit within 24-48 hours, provide list of local lawyers, contact family if requested.
For hospitalization: Embassy can contact family, provide list of English-speaking medical facilities for transfer if needed, assist with medical evacuation arrangements if you have appropriate insurance.
For lost passport with immediate travel: Emergency travel document can be issued within 1-3 working days. You must obtain police report, passport photos, and pay emergency passport fee.
Non-Emergency Contact During Office Hours
For routine matters, contact embassies via:
- Email inquiries: Check embassy website for consular services email
- Online contact forms: Most embassies use secure online inquiry systems
- Phone during business hours: General switchboard numbers provided above
- Appointment booking systems: GOV.UK portal for UK, online systems for U.S. and others
Response Time: Embassies typically respond to non-emergency inquiries within 1-3 business days. Do not use emergency hotlines for visa questions, passport renewal inquiries, or general travel advice.
Which Embassy Should I Contact for Work Permit Document Authentication?
Contact your home country embassy for document authentication required for Vietnam work permits: degree certificates cost $50-$85 with 3-5 working day processing, police clearances $20-$30 processed same day to 1 week, and birth certificates $50-$85 with 3-5 days processing. U.S. citizens use Consular Services at 170 Ngoc Khanh Street, Hanoi or 4 Le Duan, HCMC; UK citizens at embassy locations require appointments booked via GOV.UK portal; other nationalities follow similar embassy-specific procedures.
Document Authentication Requirements by Country
United States:
- Location: Consular Section, Rose Garden Building, 170 Ngoc Khanh Street, Hanoi OR American Citizen Services, 4 Le Duan, HCMC
- Appointment: Required via https://evisaforms.state.gov
- Fee: $50 per document notarization
- Processing: 3-5 working days
- Office Hours: Monday-Thursday 8:30-11:30 AM & 1:30-3:30 PM, Friday 8:30-11:30 AM
United Kingdom:
- Location: British Embassy Hanoi OR British Consulate General HCMC
- Appointment: Required via GOV.UK portal (https://www.gov.uk/guidance/notarial-and-documentary-services-guide-for-vietnam)
- Fee: £50 (approximately $65) per document
- Public Hours: Monday, Tuesday, Thursday 9:00-11:45 AM; Wednesday 2:00-3:30 PM
- Processing: Same day to 3 working days
Ireland:
- Location: 2nd floor, 41A Ly Thai To, Hanoi (no HCMC office)
- Appointment: Email embassy via contact form at ireland.ie
- Fee: Varies by document type
- Note: Southern Vietnam residents must courier documents to Hanoi, adding 2-3 days processing
New Zealand:
- Location: Level 5, 63 Ly Thai To, Hanoi OR Suite 804, 235 Dong Khoi, HCMC
- Appointment: Contact embassy via phone
- Services: Witnessing affidavits, statutory declarations, document certification
Vietnam Work Permit Authentication Process
Step 1: Obtain Original Documents
- Degree certificate from your university
- Police clearance certificate from home country (typically valid 6 months)
- Birth certificate (some cases)
Step 2: Embassy Authentication
- Book appointment at your embassy
- Bring originals and photocopies
- Pay authentication fee
- Collect authenticated documents after 3-5 days
Step 3: Vietnamese Ministry of Foreign Affairs Legalization
- Submit embassy-authenticated documents to Vietnam MOFA Consular Department
- Pay legalization fee (VND 200,000-500,000 per document)
- Processing time: 3-5 working days
- Hanoi Office: 40 Tran Phu Street, Ba Dinh District
- HCMC Office: 6 Alexandre de Rhodes, District 1
Total Timeline: Budget 7-12 working days total for complete authentication process from embassy submission to final MOFA legalization.
Cost Summary:
- Embassy authentication: $50-$85 per document
- MOFA legalization: VND 200,000-500,000 ($8-$20) per document
- Translation (if needed): VND 100,000-200,000 ($4-$8) per page
Frequently Asked Questions About Embassies in Vietnam
Do I need an appointment to visit my embassy in Vietnam?
Yes, most embassies require appointments for routine services including passport renewal and notarial services. The U.S. Embassy uses online appointment system at https://evisaforms.state.gov, UK uses GOV.UK appointment portal at https://www.gov.uk/guidance/notarial-and-documentary-services-guide-for-vietnam. Emergency walk-ins are accepted 24/7 for genuine emergencies including arrest, hospitalization, immediate travel with lost passport, or threat to personal safety. Attempting to visit without an appointment for routine services will result in being turned away at embassy security screening.
Appointment Lead Times:
- U.S. Embassy: Book 1-2 weeks in advance during busy periods
- UK Embassy: Typically 3-5 business days advance booking
- Ireland Embassy: Email inquiry may take 2-3 days for appointment confirmation
- New Zealand: Usually can schedule within same week
Walk-In Emergencies Only: Security personnel at embassy gates will verify emergency status. Acceptable emergencies include arrest, serious hospitalization, passport loss with departure within 24-48 hours, or immediate threat. Visa questions, general travel advice, or routine document requests do not qualify as emergencies.
What documents do I need to renew my passport at the embassy?
Passport renewal requires: current passport even if expired, completed application form downloaded from embassy website or obtained at appointment, two recent passport photos with white background and no glasses taken within last 6 months, payment of $130-$165 for most countries by cash or card depending on embassy, and proof of residence in Vietnam such as work permit or visa. Processing takes 2-3 weeks for standard service or 1 week for expedited service with additional $60 fee.
Detailed Requirements:
Passport Photos:
- Size: 2×2 inches (51x51mm) for U.S., 35x45mm for UK
- Background: White or light-colored, no patterns
- Recent: Taken within last 6 months
- No glasses unless medical necessity with doctor’s note
- No head coverings except religious purposes
- Neutral expression, eyes open, mouth closed
Application Forms:
- U.S.: DS-82 (Renewal) or DS-11 (First-time adult)
- UK: Completed online before appointment
- Ireland: Available at embassy or downloadable from ireland.ie
- New Zealand: Forms provided at embassy appointment
Proof of Residence:
- Valid Vietnam work permit (preferred)
- Current visa in passport
- Temporary Residence Card (TRC) if applicable
- Utility bills or rental agreements may supplement
Payment Methods:
- U.S. Embassy: Credit card (Visa, Mastercard), U.S. dollars cash
- UK Embassy: Credit card, British pounds, U.S. dollars
- Ireland Embassy: Bank transfer to VietinBank account or cash only (no credit cards accepted)
- New Zealand: Check embassy website for current payment methods
Processing Times:
- Standard: 2-3 weeks from submission to collection
- Expedited: 1 week (additional $60-$85 fee)
- Emergency: 1-3 working days (additional $90-$140 fee, requires proof of immediate travel)
Collection: Most embassies require in-person collection. Some offer courier delivery for additional fee. Bring original receipt and identification when collecting.
Can my embassy help if I have problems with my employer in Vietnam?
Embassies provide limited employment support: they cannot intervene in labor disputes or force employers to pay salaries, but they can provide list of English-speaking lawyers charging $150-$300 per hour, explain Vietnamese labor law basics under Labor Code 2019, and facilitate communication with local authorities if employment rights are violated. For serious issues including unpaid wages exceeding 15 days, contract violations, or unsafe working conditions, contact Vietnam Ministry of Labor hotline 1900-0072 (VND 1,000 per minute) or file complaint at provincial Department of Labor, Invalids and Social Affairs.
What Your Embassy Can Do:
Legal Referrals:
- Provide list of English-speaking lawyers experienced in labor law
- Typical lawyer rates: $150-$300 per hour, some offer fixed-fee consultations $50-$100
- Embassy cannot recommend specific lawyers but maintains verified list
General Information:
- Explain basic Vietnamese labor law rights under Labor Code 2019
- Clarify contract termination procedures and severance pay calculations
- Provide information about labor dispute resolution process
- Outline workers’ rights regarding working hours, overtime, and leave entitlements
Communication Facilitation:
- Contact local authorities on your behalf if language barrier exists
- Write formal letters to employers if needed (not legal representation)
- Attend meetings with employers as observer (cannot negotiate)
What Your Embassy Cannot Do:
No Legal Intervention:
- Cannot force employer to pay salaries or honor contracts
- Cannot represent you in labor court or arbitration
- Cannot file complaints with authorities on your behalf
- Cannot provide legal advice beyond general information
No Financial Assistance:
- Cannot pay unpaid salaries or provide loans for living expenses
- Cannot cover legal fees or court costs
- Emergency repatriation loans available only in extreme destitution cases
Vietnamese Resources for Employment Problems:
Ministry of Labor Hotline: 1900-0072
Cost: VND 1,000 per minute
Hours: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM Monday-Friday
Languages: Vietnamese only (translator needed)
Department of Labor, Invalids and Social Affairs (DOLISA):
- Every province has DOLISA office handling labor complaints
- File written complaint within 6 months of contract violation
- Mediation typically scheduled within 5-7 working days
- Free service, no fees for filing complaints
Labor Arbitration Council:
- Handles disputes after DOLISA mediation fails
- Decision issued within 5-7 working days
- Enforceable through labor court if employer doesn’t comply
Legal Aid Centers:
- Free legal consultations for foreign workers in some cities
- Hanoi: Legal Aid Center, 59 Ly Thai To (+84-24-3942-3446)
- HCMC: Legal Aid Center, 56 Cao Thang (+84-28-3930-0230)
What are the embassy office hours and holidays?
Most embassies operate 8:30 AM to 5:00 PM Monday-Friday with lunch break 12:00 PM to 1:00 PM, though specific hours vary: U.S. Embassy 8:00 AM-5:00 PM with no lunch closure, UK Embassy Monday-Thursday 8:30 AM-12:30 PM & 1:30-4:45 PM and Friday 8:30 AM-12:30 PM & 1:00-3:00 PM. Embassies close for both Vietnamese holidays including Tet Lunar New Year in late January/early February, National Day September 2, Liberation Day April 30, and home country holidays such as U.S. Independence Day July 4, UK King’s Birthday in June, varying annually. Emergency services available 24/7 via emergency hotlines regardless of holidays.
Standard Embassy Operating Hours:
| Embassy | Monday-Thursday | Friday | Saturday-Sunday |
|---|---|---|---|
| U.S. | 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM | 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM | Closed |
| UK | 8:30 AM-12:30 PM & 1:30-4:45 PM | 8:30 AM-12:30 PM & 1:00-3:00 PM | Closed |
| Ireland | 9:00 AM-12:00 PM & 1:00-4:30 PM | 9:00 AM-12:00 PM & 1:00-4:30 PM | Closed |
| New Zealand | 8:30 AM-12:00 PM & 1:00-5:00 PM | 8:30 AM-12:00 PM & 1:00-5:00 PM | Closed |
Vietnamese Public Holidays (Embassies Closed):
- Tet Lunar New Year: 5-9 days in late January or early February 2025
- Hung Kings’ Commemoration Day: 10th day of 3rd lunar month (varies annually)
- Liberation Day: April 30
- International Labor Day: May 1
- National Day: September 2
Home Country Holidays (Embassy Closed, Varies by Embassy):
United States:
- New Year’s Day: January 1
- Martin Luther King Jr. Day: Third Monday in January
- Presidents’ Day: Third Monday in February
- Memorial Day: Last Monday in May
- Independence Day: July 4
- Labor Day: First Monday in September
- Columbus Day: Second Monday in October
- Veterans Day: November 11
- Thanksgiving: Fourth Thursday in November
- Christmas: December 25
United Kingdom:
- New Year’s Day: January 1
- Good Friday: Varies (March/April)
- Easter Monday: Varies (March/April)
- Early May Bank Holiday: First Monday in May
- King’s Birthday: Second Saturday in June (observed on following Monday)
- Summer Bank Holiday: Last Monday in August
- Christmas Day: December 25
- Boxing Day: December 26
Important: Check embassy websites before visiting, especially near holiday periods. Some embassies may have reduced hours or special closures for staff training days or security assessments not reflected in standard calendars.
How much do embassy services cost for foreign teachers?
Common service fees include: passport renewal $130-$165 standard processing or $190-$250 expedited within 1 week, notary service $50 per document for signature witnessing or document certification, document authentication $50-$85 per document for degree certificates and police clearances needed for work permits, emergency passport $140-$185 including urgency fee, and birth registration $100-$135. Most embassies accept credit card (Visa, Mastercard) or U.S. dollars cash, though Ireland Embassy requires bank transfer to VietinBank account or Vietnamese dong cash only with no credit card option – confirm payment methods when booking appointment.
Detailed Service Cost Breakdown:
Passport Services:
- Renewal (Standard): $130 (U.S.), $132 (UK), €80 (Ireland), NZ$206 (New Zealand)
- Processing Time: 2-3 weeks
- Renewal (Expedited): Add $60-$85, processing 1 week
- Emergency Passport: $140-$185 total, includes limited-validity document, processing 1-3 days
- Extra Pages: Not available (most countries issue fixed-page passports)
- Lost/Stolen Replacement: Same as renewal fee plus emergency fee if needed urgently
Notarial Services:
- Signature Witnessing: $50 per document
- Certified Copy: $50 per document (passports, ID cards)
- Affidavits: $50 per affidavit
- Powers of Attorney: $50-$100 depending on complexity
- Name Change Documentation: $50-$100
Document Authentication (Work Permits):
- Degree Certificate: $50-$85 per document
- Police Clearance: $20-$30 per document
- Birth Certificate: $50-$85 per document
- Processing Time: 3-5 working days for all documents
Consular Reports:
- Birth Abroad Registration: $100-$135
- Passport for Child Born Abroad: Standard passport fees apply
- Death Certificate: Usually no fee, expedited copies $50
Other Services:
- Emergency Message Relay: Usually free
- Prison Visit: No fee for consular visit
- Medical Evacuation Facilitation: No embassy fee (insurance covers evacuation costs)
- Emergency Repatriation Loan: Must be repaid to U.S. government, typically $1,000-$3,000
Payment Methods by Embassy:
U.S. Embassy:
- Credit cards: Visa, Mastercard
- Cash: U.S. dollars
- No personal checks or Vietnamese dong
UK Embassy:
- Credit cards: Visa, Mastercard
- Cash: British pounds, U.S. dollars, Vietnamese dong
- Online payment for some services
Ireland Embassy:
- Bank transfer ONLY to VietinBank account (account details provided at appointment)
- Vietnamese dong cash accepted at embassy
- NO credit cards accepted under any circumstances
- Bank fees are applicant’s responsibility
New Zealand Embassy:
- Check embassy website for current payment methods
- Typically credit card and U.S. dollars accepted
Currency Exchange Rates: Embassies use official exchange rates updated monthly. U.S. Embassy current rate: 1 USD = 27,000 VND (effective May 5, 2025). Rates may differ from market rates.
Knowing your embassy location and emergency contacts is critical safety preparation for foreign teachers in Vietnam. Keep emergency hotlines saved in your phone including U.S. +84-24-3850-5000 (Hanoi) or +84-28-3520-4200 (HCMC), UK +84-24-3936-0500 (Hanoi) or +84-28-3825-1380 (HCMC), complete Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) or equivalent registration through your embassy’s website, and maintain digital copies of passport and work permit accessible from embassy portal or cloud storage. The 90+ embassies in Vietnam provide comprehensive support including 24/7 emergency assistance, document authentication for work permits within 3-5 working days, passport services, and legal referrals, but cannot replace proper planning, valid documentation, and understanding Vietnamese regulations governing foreign teachers.
Essential Actions Every Foreign Teacher Should Take
1. Register with Your Embassy
- U.S. Citizens: Enroll in STEP (Smart Traveler Enrollment Program) at https://step.state.gov
- UK Citizens: No formal registration but update contact details via GOV.UK
- Other Nationalities: Check embassy website for registration portals
- Benefits: Embassy can contact you during emergencies, natural disasters, or civil unrest; receive safety alerts for Vietnam
2. Save Emergency Contacts
- Store 24/7 embassy emergency number in phone under “ICE” (In Case of Emergency)
- Keep printed copy of embassy address and phone in wallet
- Share emergency contacts with family, employer, and close friends in Vietnam
3. Maintain Document Copies
- Digital copies of passport photo page, Vietnam visa, work permit
- Store in cloud service (Google Drive, Dropbox) accessible from any device
- Email copies to yourself at multiple email addresses
- Keep paper copies separate from originals (hotel safe, trusted friend)
4. Understand Your Rights
- Read embassy’s “Living in Vietnam” guide on their website
- Familiarize yourself with Vietnamese Labor Code 2019 provisions
- Know your employment contract rights regarding salary, termination, leave
- Understand visa regulations and overstay penalties
5. Prepare for Emergencies
- Purchase comprehensive travel insurance covering medical evacuation ($100,000+ coverage recommended)
- Identify closest international hospital to your location
- Know your blood type and any medical conditions in Vietnamese and English
- Have emergency fund accessible ($1,000+ recommended) for unexpected situations
When Embassy Support Is Most Critical
Embassies become invaluable during:
- Arrest or detention: Immediate consular visit, lawyer referrals, family notification
- Serious illness or injury: Hospital recommendations, medical evacuation facilitation, family contact
- Passport loss before departure: Emergency travel documents within 1-3 days
- Employer disputes: Legal referrals, labor law information, communication facilitation
- Natural disasters: Safety alerts, evacuation coordination if necessary
- Political unrest: Updated security information, recommended actions
However, embassies cannot solve all problems. Maintain valid documents, understand Vietnamese law, fulfill contract obligations, and practice basic safety precautions to minimize situations requiring embassy intervention.
Additional Safety Resources for Foreign Teachers
For comprehensive guidance on emergency procedures, health insurance requirements, legal rights under Vietnamese law, and crisis preparedness essential for teaching professionals in Vietnam, explore additional guides in our SAFETY & EMERGENCY category. Topics include hospital directory with English-speaking medical facilities, Vietnamese labor law explained for foreign teachers, emergency evacuation procedures, and insurance coverage requirements.
