Foreign teachers applying for Vietnam work permits must complete a health examination at Ministry of Health-authorized facilities within 12 months before submission. The medical certificate costs VND 500,000-4,000,000 ($20-$160 USD depending on facility type) and requires three examination categories: physical measurements (height, weight, BMI, blood pressure), clinical assessments (internal medicine, ENT, ophthalmology, dental), and laboratory tests (blood work, urinalysis, chest X-ray). Certificates must be signed by Level I specialists or higher and remain valid for 12 months. Foreign-issued certificates require consular legalization and Vietnamese translation but have shorter 6-month validity. Processing takes half day at most facilities.
This comprehensive guide covers all medical examination requirements under Circular 32/2023/TT-BYT (effective January 1, 2024), helping foreign language teachers navigate Vietnam’s work permit health certificate process efficiently. You’ll learn exactly which tests are mandatory, where to get examined, how much it costs, and how to avoid common rejection issues that delay work permit applications.
What Medical Tests Are Required for a Vietnam Work Permit?
Vietnam work permits require three examination categories: physical examination (height, weight, BMI, pulse, blood pressure), clinical examination (internal medicine, surgery, gynecology for females, ophthalmology, ENT, dental, dermatology), and sub-clinical tests (blood work, urinalysis, chest X-ray, ECG). All examinations follow Circular 32/2023/TT-BYT standards effective January 1, 2024.
The Vietnamese Ministry of Health mandates comprehensive health screening to ensure foreign workers can physically perform their job duties and do not pose public health risks. These requirements apply equally to all foreign teachers regardless of nationality or previous health certifications.
Complete Medical Examination Requirements
| Examination Category | Specific Tests | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Physical Examination | Height, weight, BMI calculation, pulse rate, blood pressure | Basic health metrics assessment |
| Clinical Examination | Internal medicine (respiratory, cardiovascular, digestive, kidney-urinary, neurological, musculoskeletal, psychiatric), surgery, gynecology (females), ophthalmology, ENT, dental, dermatology | Specialist assessments across multiple medical fields |
| Sub-clinical Laboratory | Complete blood count (CBC), blood glucose, liver function (ALT/AST/GGT), kidney function (creatinine, urea), Hepatitis B (HBsAg, Anti-HBs), urinalysis, lipid profile | Laboratory blood and urine analysis |
| Imaging Tests | Chest X-ray, ECG (electrocardiogram) | Lung and heart screening |
The physical examination establishes baseline health metrics and identifies obvious physical limitations. Clinical examinations assess organ system function through specialist consultations. Sub-clinical tests detect underlying medical conditions not visible through physical examination alone.
Do Female Teachers Need Additional Medical Tests?
Yes, female teachers must complete gynecological examination as part of the clinical assessment per Circular 32/2023/TT-BYT Article 36. This examination is mandatory regardless of age and forms part of the standard health classification for female foreign workers.
The gynecological assessment is conducted by qualified gynecologists at authorized facilities and maintains patient confidentiality standards. Results contribute to the overall health classification but do not automatically disqualify candidates except in cases of active, untreated communicable diseases affecting work capacity.
Are Mental Health Assessments Mandatory?
Yes, psychiatric assessment is included in the clinical examination category to evaluate neurological and mental fitness for work responsibilities. The psychiatric evaluation screens for conditions that might impair teaching performance or workplace safety.
This assessment is brief screening conducted by psychiatrists or neurologists, not comprehensive psychological evaluation. Most teachers pass this component without issues unless they have documented severe psychiatric conditions requiring ongoing treatment.
Explore This Topic: Vietnam Work Permits Guide 2025: Legal Requirements & Process
How Long Is a Vietnam Work Permit Health Certificate Valid?
Health certificates issued in Vietnam remain valid for 12 months from the date of health conclusion to work permit submission date, following Circular 32/2023/TT-BYT. Foreign-issued certificates have maximum 6-month validity from issuance date and require consular legalization plus Vietnamese translation.
The validity period begins from the date the examining physician signs the health conclusion, not from the examination date itself. This distinction matters because laboratory results may take several hours to process before the doctor can complete the final health classification and sign the certificate.
Certificate Validity Rules
- Vietnam-issued certificates: 12 months validity from health conclusion signature date (Circular 32/2023/TT-BYT)
- Foreign-issued certificates: Maximum 6 months validity from issuance date
- Expiration rule: Must be valid on work permit submission date, not approval date
- Renewal timing: Many teachers schedule examination 2-3 months before work permit expiration
Certificates expired by even one day at submission are rejected automatically by work permit processing officers. Rejected applications require complete resubmission with new medical certificate and VND 600,000 reprocessing fee.
Can I Use My Home Country Medical Certificate?
Yes, but with significant complications. Foreign certificates must meet strict requirements: (1) signed by medical doctor (nurse practitioners NOT accepted per Vietnamese law), (2) consular legalized by Vietnamese authorities, (3) professionally translated to Vietnamese with notarization, (4) valid maximum 6 months versus 12 months for Vietnam certificates.
Real case example from translation agency Thao & Co: An American teacher’s certificate signed by nurse practitioner was rejected by work permit office because Vietnamese law requires medical doctor signature only per Circular 32/2023/TT-BYT Article 31. The teacher required re-examination in Vietnam, causing delay and additional cost.
Foreign certificates must also include all examination components specified in Circular 32/2023/TT-BYT. Many overseas health certificates lack required specialist assessments like dental examinations or specific blood chemistry panels, resulting in rejection.
Recommendation: Get examination in Vietnam at authorized facility to avoid legalization costs (approximately $20-25 per stamp), translation fees ($15-30 per page), and processing complications. The extended validity period makes Vietnam examinations more practical for most teachers.
Before scheduling your medical examination, ensure you understand the complete Vietnam Work Permits Guide 2025: Legal Requirements & Process to coordinate all documentation timelines effectively.
Where Can Foreign Teachers Get Medical Examinations in Vietnam?
Foreign teachers must complete examinations only at Ministry of Health-authorized facilities listed in Official Letter 143/KCB-PHCN&GĐ dated February 5, 2015. Examinations at non-authorized hospitals are automatically rejected by work permit offices regardless of certificate quality.
The authorization list is periodically updated by the Ministry of Health. Only facilities meeting specific infrastructure requirements receive authorization to conduct work permit health examinations.
Authorized Facilities with English-Speaking Staff
Hanoi Options:
- Family Medical Practice – International clinic with English staff
- Hong Ngoc Hospital – Private hospital with English support
- Thu Cuc International Hospital – English-speaking medical staff
- Bach Mai Hospital – Government hospital (limited English)
- Vietnam-France Hospital – French and Vietnamese doctors
Ho Chi Minh City Options:
- Family Medical Practice – International clinic with English staff
- Columbia Asia Saigon International Clinic – English support
- CarePlus Clinic – English-speaking staff
- Cho Ray Hospital – Government hospital (limited English)
- Vinmec International Hospital – English staff available
International medical facilities charge premium prices but offer significant advantages for foreign teachers: English-speaking medical staff eliminate language barriers, efficient processing speeds work permit timelines, and familiar Western medical standards reduce anxiety about examination procedures.
Important: Verify current authorization status before booking appointment. Facilities occasionally lose authorization due to infrastructure changes or regulatory non-compliance.
How Much Does a Work Permit Medical Examination Cost in Vietnam?
Medical examination costs range VND 500,000-4,000,000 ($20-$160 USD) depending on facility type and location. Government hospitals charge VND 500,000-1,500,000 ($20-$60), while private international clinics cost VND 3,000,000-4,000,000 ($120-$160). Price includes all required tests, certificate issuance, and official stamps. Additional costs: 2 passport photos (VND 20,000), translation if needed (VND 200,000-500,000).
The price variation reflects differences in service speed, English language support, facility amenities, and processing efficiency.
Cost Comparison by Facility Type
| Facility Type | Price Range (VND) | Price Range (USD) | Advantages | Processing Time |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Government Hospitals | 500,000-1,500,000 | $20-$60 | Lowest cost, official documentation | Half day to next day |
| Private Vietnamese Clinics | 1,500,000-3,000,000 | $60-$120 | Moderate cost, faster service | Half day |
| International Medical Centers | 3,000,000-4,000,000 | $120-$160 | English staff, efficient processing | Half day, same-day results |
Payment is typically cash-only at government hospitals, though private and international facilities accept credit cards. Some clinics require advance payment at registration before examinations begin.
Budget Planning: Most teachers should budget VND 2-2.5 million ($80-100) for examination at private clinic with English support, plus VND 100,000 ($4) contingency for photos. Total realistic budget: $85-105.
What Documents Do You Need for the Medical Examination?
Bring 5 mandatory items to medical examination: (1) original passport with minimum 6 months validity, (2) two 4x6cm photos white background taken within 6 months, (3) previous medical records if pre-existing conditions, (4) examination fee (VND 500,000-4,000,000), (5) fasting 8-12 hours for blood tests (water only).
Document preparation prevents appointment delays or rescheduling. Many facilities refuse to conduct examinations without complete documentation.
Complete Documentation Checklist
- Original Passport: Valid 6+ months beyond examination date (photocopies not accepted for registration)
- Photos: Two 4x6cm passport-style photos, white background, taken within 6 months
- Medical History: Previous test results, prescriptions, vaccination records if you have chronic conditions
- Payment: Cash payment strongly preferred (amount varies by facility type), international clinics may accept cards
- Fasting Requirements: No food/drinks except water for 8-12 hours before appointment for accurate blood tests
- Clothing: Wear loose, comfortable clothing for physical examination and chest X-ray
- Alcohol Restriction: Avoid alcohol consumption for 24 hours before examination
Pro Tip: Schedule appointments for 7-9 AM so the required 8-12 hour fasting period occurs overnight while sleeping. Bring water bottle for after blood draw.
What Is the Step-by-Step Process for Getting the Medical Certificate?
Complete the examination process in 5 main steps taking approximately half day: (1) Schedule appointment at authorized facility, (2) Submit documents and pay fee at registration, (3) Complete examinations at multiple stations, (4) Wait for results processing and doctor review, (5) Collect certificate with official signature and stamp.
The process follows standardized procedures across all authorized facilities, though timing varies based on facility efficiency and daily patient volume.
Complete Process Timeline
Step 1: Schedule Appointment
- Walk-in availability: Most facilities accept walk-in patients, especially mornings 7-9 AM
- Advance booking: Recommended for international clinics, book 1-3 days ahead
- Fasting preparation: Begin 8-12 hour fast the night before morning appointment (water allowed)
- Alcohol avoidance: No alcohol for 24 hours before examination
Step 2: Registration & Payment
- Submit original passport + 2 photos + previous medical records at registration
- Pay examination fee (amount varies by facility)
- Receive examination form with patient ID number and station instructions
Step 3: Medical Examinations
- Physical measurements station: Height, weight, BMI calculation, blood pressure, pulse rate
- Laboratory collection station: Blood draw, urine sample collection
- Imaging tests station: Chest X-ray, ECG with electrode placement
- Specialist consultation stations: Rotate through internal medicine, ENT, dental, ophthalmology, dermatology examinations
- Additional specialists (if applicable): Gynecology for females
Each station involves waiting as other patients rotate through. Most facilities provide water and seating areas between stations.
Step 4: Results Processing
- Laboratory analysis: Blood chemistry, CBC, urinalysis processed by lab technicians
- Image review: Radiologist reviews chest X-ray and ECG results
- Doctor review: Level I specialist or medical master reviews all results and completes health classification
- Certificate preparation: Administrative staff complete official health certificate form with findings, classification, doctor signature, and facility stamp
Step 5: Certificate Collection
- International clinics: Often provide same-day issuance
- Private clinics: Same day collection typical
- Government hospitals: May require next business day pickup
Collect original certificate for work permit submission. Request additional certified copies if needed for multiple applications (small additional fee). Keep certificate in protective folder.
Processing Time Factors:
- Morning appointments (7-9 AM): Fastest processing
- Afternoon appointments: Generally slower, higher patient volume
- Weekend availability: Limited to select facilities, advance booking essential
What Happens If You Fail the Medical Examination?
Certificate rejection typically results from treatable conditions: uncontrolled hypertension, abnormal liver enzymes, active tuberculosis, or communicable diseases. Failed examinations require medical treatment and re-examination at same cost (VND 500,000-4,000,000 additional).
Most health issues causing initial failure are manageable with short-term medical intervention. Physicians at examination facilities often provide guidance on treatment steps and expected timeline for successful re-examination.
Common Failure Reasons and Solutions
- Hypertension: Elevated blood pressure requires hypertension medication and monitoring period before re-test
- Liver Function Abnormalities: Elevated liver enzymes need follow-up tests and possible lifestyle modification or treatment
- Active Tuberculosis: Positive chest X-ray findings require treatment regimen and medical clearance before re-application
- Uncontrolled Diabetes: Elevated blood glucose needs medication adjustment and stabilization before re-test
Important Clarification: HIV/Hepatitis B positive status is NOT automatic disqualification per Vietnamese Labor Law. Only active, untreated communicable diseases affecting work capacity or posing transmission risk are grounds for rejection. Controlled HIV on antiretroviral therapy or chronic Hepatitis B with normal liver function typically receive health clearance.
Re-examination Process
- Treat underlying condition with prescribed medication (typically several weeks)
- Obtain medical clearance from treating physician
- Schedule re-examination at same authorized facility with clearance documentation
- Pay full examination cost again (original fee is not refundable)
- Processing time: Same as initial examination
After successfully obtaining your medical certificate, proceed with authenticating your educational credentials following our guide: How to Authenticate Your Degree for Vietnam Work Permit.
Frequently Asked Questions About Medical Examinations for Vietnam Work Permits
Can I Get the Medical Examination Before Arriving in Vietnam?
Yes, but with major complications. Foreign-issued certificates have maximum 6-month validity (versus 12 months in Vietnam), require consular legalization, Vietnamese translation, and must be signed by medical doctor (nurse practitioner signatures rejected per Circular 32/2023/TT-BYT). Recommendation: Complete examination in Vietnam to save legalization/translation costs and gain additional validity period.
Do I Need to Repeat the Medical Examination for Work Permit Renewal?
Yes, new health certificate required for each work permit renewal. Certificate must be less than 12 months old at renewal submission date. Many teachers schedule examination several months before work permit expiration for seamless renewal processing.
What If My Medical Certificate Expires During Work Permit Processing?
Application rejected automatically. Certificate must remain valid on submission date, not approval date. Processing typically takes 15-20 working days, so apply with adequate validity remaining. If certificate expires during processing, you must resubmit entire application with new certificate plus VND 600,000 reprocessing fee.
Can I Use the Same Medical Certificate for Work Permit and Temporary Residence Card?
Yes, one health certificate serves both purposes if valid. Temporary Residence Card (TRC) applications also require health certificate issued within 12 months. Submit certified copies for each application – keep original certificate for your records.
What If I Have Pre-Existing Medical Conditions?
Disclose all conditions to examining physician. Pre-existing conditions like controlled diabetes, hypertension under treatment, asthma with management, or previous surgeries do NOT automatically disqualify you. Only active, untreated communicable diseases or severe conditions preventing work capacity cause rejection.
Bring complete medical documentation: current prescriptions, treatment records, previous test results, specialist letters. This helps examining physicians make informed health classification decisions.
How Long Does the Entire Medical Examination Take?
Approximately half day at most facilities from registration to certificate collection. International clinics with English-speaking staff often complete examinations efficiently. Government hospitals may take longer. Best time: Arrive 7-9 AM for faster processing.
Examination duration depends on patient volume, facility efficiency, and any additional consultations required for pre-existing conditions. Plan to dedicate half-day to medical examination.
Is Health Insurance Required for the Medical Examination?
No, work permit health examinations are self-pay only. Health insurance does not cover these employment-related assessments. Cost range: VND 500,000-4,000,000 ($20-$160 USD) paid out-of-pocket at time of examination.
Health insurance is designed for illness and injury treatment, not administrative medical certifications for employment purposes. Even international health insurance policies typically exclude work permit medical examinations from coverage.
Vietnam work permit medical examinations require Ministry-authorized facilities, cost VND 500,000-4,000,000 ($20-$160 depending on facility type), take approximately half day, and yield certificates valid 12 months. Foreign teachers should complete examinations in Vietnam to maximize validity period and avoid legalization complexities. Book morning appointments (7-9 AM) for efficient processing.
Critical Success Checklist
- Schedule examination with adequate time before work permit application deadline
- Fast 8-12 hours before appointment (water only)
- Bring original passport + 2 white-background photos + payment
- Collect certificate according to facility timeline
- Submit to employer for work permit application within 12 months validity window
- Verify certificate details immediately upon receipt
The medical examination is mandatory but straightforward for healthy teachers. Most teachers pass examinations without complications. Success depends on choosing authorized facility, bringing complete documentation, and scheduling with adequate validity timeline.
Explore More Legal & Visa Requirements
Navigating Vietnam’s legal requirements for foreign teachers involves multiple documentation steps beyond medical examinations. Explore our comprehensive guides on work permits, visa regulations, degree authentication, and legal compliance.
