Vietnam work permit processing takes 20-30 working days officially (approximately 1.5-2 months) under previous Decree 152/2020, involving Demand Approval (15 working days) and Work Permit Application (5 working days). However, under new Decree 219/2025 effective August 7, 2025, streamlined procedures process complete applications within 10 working days total. Realistic timelines extend to 2-3 months when including document preparation—criminal background checks require 15 working days (Vietnam) or 3-5+ weeks (home country), health certificates take 3-5 days, and degree legalization needs 2-4 weeks. Processing delays occur from incomplete documents, Vietnamese holidays (especially Tet), and peak application volumes (August-September). Teachers should begin preparation 2-3 months before intended work start date, as penalties for working without permits include VND 15-25 million fines plus deportation.
How Long Does It Take to Get a Vietnam Work Permit?
Vietnam work permit official processing time is 20-30 working days (4-6 weeks) under Decree 152/2020, but streamlined to 10 working days under Decree 219/2025 effective August 7, 2025. Realistic total timeline spans 2-3 months including mandatory document preparation: criminal checks (15 working days in Vietnam or 3-5+ weeks from home country), health certificates (3-5 days in Vietnam), degree legalization (2-4 weeks), and Vietnamese translation (5-7 days). The process divides into two stages under old regulations or single consolidated application under new decree.
What Are the Processing Stages Under Different Decrees?
Under Decree 152/2020 (applies to applications submitted before August 7, 2025): two-stage process taking 20-30 working days total. Stage 1 requires employer to submit demand approval at least 15 working days before intended start date, with authority reviewing within 15 working days. Stage 2 requires complete work permit application submitted at least 15 working days prior to employment, processed within 5 working days for complete files.
Under Decree 219/2025 (applies to applications submitted on/after August 7, 2025): single consolidated process taking 10 working days. Employer submits one combined application including demand explanation and work permit request. Competent authority (Provincial People’s Committee) processes complete applications within 10 working days. If disapproved, written response issued within 3 working days stating reasons.
Key difference: Decree 219/2025 eliminated separate demand approval stage, reducing official processing from 20-30 days to 10 days. However, document preparation timeline (2-3 months) remains unchanged for both decrees.
How Long Does Document Preparation Actually Take?
Document preparation requires 3-5+ weeks minimum, with criminal background checks longest at 15 working days (Vietnam) or 3-5+ weeks (home country). Health certificates take 3-5 days in Vietnam, degree legalization needs 2-4 weeks through home country Ministry of Foreign Affairs plus Vietnam Embassy, and Vietnamese translation requires 5-7 days. Total recommended preparation: 2-3 months before intended work start.
Document Preparation Timeline:
| Document Type | Processing Time | Validity Period | Official Cost |
|---|---|---|---|
| Criminal Record (Vietnam) | 15 working days | 6 months | VND 200,000 (~$8.70 USD) |
| Criminal Record (Home Country) | 3-5+ weeks (varies by country) | 6 months | Varies by country |
| Health Certificate (Vietnam) | 3-5 days | 12 months | VND 1-4 million ($40-160 USD) |
| Degree Legalization | 2-4 weeks | N/A | Varies by country |
| TEFL Certificate Legalization | 1-2 weeks | N/A | Varies by country |
| Vietnamese Translation | 5-7 days per document | N/A | VND 500,000-2 million per document |
Critical note: All foreign-issued documents require consular legalization in home country first, then by Vietnam Embassy/Consulate, adding 2-4 weeks total. Criminal record certificates must be issued within 6 months of work permit application; health certificates within 12 months.
Having trouble obtaining your criminal background check from your home country? Our complete guide explains the process: Police Clearance Certificate in Vietnam: Complete Guide for Foreign Teachers
What Is the Timeline Under New Decree 219/2025?
Decree 219/2025 (effective August 7, 2025) reduces work permit processing to 10 working days for complete applications by consolidating demand approval and permit application into single dossier. New streamlined process requires job posting for minimum 5 working days (down from 15 days previously), shifts licensing authority to Provincial People’s Committees, and expands short-term work exemptions to 90 cumulative days per year (replacing previous “30 days, 3 times yearly” rule). Applications submitted before August 7, 2025, continue processing under Decree 152/2020; applications on/after August 7, 2025, follow new rules.
Before Decree 219/2025 (Decree 152/2020):
- Job posting requirement: Via MOLISA portal, 15 working days before demand application
- Stage 1 – Demand Approval: 15 working days processing
- Stage 2 – Work Permit Application: 5 working days processing
- Total official time: 20-30 working days minimum
- Submit Stage 2 application: At least 15 working days before employment
After Decree 219/2025 (Effective August 7, 2025):
- Job posting requirement: Public platform/company channels, 5 working days minimum
- Single combined application: Demand explanation + work permit request
- Processing time: 10 working days for complete files
- Disapproval notification: Within 3 working days with written reasons
- Authority: Provincial People’s Committees (decentralized from central MOLISA)
Transition provisions: Per Article 34 of Decree 219/2025, work permits issued under Decree 152/2020 remain valid until expiry. Renewals or re-issuances follow new Decree 219/2025 procedures. Applications submitted before August 7, 2025, complete processing under old decree even if decision issued after effective date.
Does Faster Processing Mean I Can Start Teaching Sooner?
No—faster processing (10 days vs. 20-30 days) only reduces official government review time, not document preparation timeline. Teachers still require 2-3 months advance preparation for: obtaining criminal checks from home country (3-5+ weeks), legalizing degrees through home country Ministry of Foreign Affairs (1-2 weeks) and Vietnam Embassy (1-2 weeks), arranging Vietnamese translation (5-7 days), and completing health examination in Vietnam (3-5 days). While Decree 219/2025 saves 10-20 working days in government processing, total timeline from start to permit receipt remains 2-3 months realistic.
Practical example: Teacher plans to start work September 1. Under Decree 152/2020, must submit complete application by August 1 (15 working days prior), with document preparation beginning June 1 (8-12 weeks earlier). Under Decree 219/2025, can submit August 15 (10 working days prior), but document preparation still begins June 1—only final submission deadline extends slightly.
What Factors Can Delay the Work Permit Timeline?
Five primary factors cause delays: incomplete documentation (adds 1-2 weeks), criminal check delays from home country (3-5+ weeks), consular legalization bottlenecks (2-4 weeks), high application volume during peak season (adds 1-2 weeks), and Vietnamese public holidays especially Tet (adds 2-3 weeks). Employers must submit applications with all required documents correctly prepared and translated to avoid rejection. Applications submitted near Tet holiday (late January/early February) or peak hiring season (August-September) experience longest delays.
Common Delay Factors:
1. Incomplete or Incorrect Documentation (Adds 1-2 Weeks)
- Missing signatures, wrong form versions, expired documents
- Criminal check older than 6 months, health certificate older than 12 months
- Degrees/certificates not properly legalized
- Prevention: Use official checklists, verify all requirements before submission
2. Criminal Background Check Delays (Adds 3-5+ Weeks)
- Home country processing varies significantly: USA FBI checks (12-14 weeks), UK DBS (8-12 weeks), Australia (4-6 weeks), Canada (4-8 weeks)
- Vietnam criminal check: 15 working days (approximately 3 weeks)
- Both home country AND Vietnam checks may be required depending on residency history
- Prevention: Initiate criminal check 3 months before planned Vietnam arrival
3. Consular Legalization Bottlenecks (Adds 2-4 Weeks)
- Documents must be authenticated by home country Ministry of Foreign Affairs (1-2 weeks)
- Then legalized by Vietnam Embassy/Consulate in home country (1-2 weeks)
- Apostille countries (Hague Convention members) may process faster but still require 1-2 weeks total
- Prevention: Research specific country procedures early, allow 4-6 weeks buffer
4. High Application Volume Periods (Adds 1-2 Weeks)
- August-September peak: International schools and language centers bulk-hire for new academic year
- December-January rush: Teachers arriving for spring semester
- Provincial authorities may experience backlogs during peak times despite 10-day official processing
- Prevention: Submit applications April-June off-peak months when possible
5. Vietnamese Public Holidays (Adds 2-3 Weeks)
- Tet (Lunar New Year): Typically late January/early February (dates vary yearly), government offices close 7-10 consecutive days, staff extended leave 10-14 days common
- Other major holidays: April 30 (Reunification Day), May 1 (Labor Day), September 2 (Independence Day)
- Applications submitted 2-3 weeks before Tet risk mid-processing closure
- Prevention: Check Vietnamese holiday calendar annually, avoid submissions December-February if possible, add 3-4 weeks buffer if Tet falls within processing window
How Long Do Specific Documents Take to Prepare?
Critical documents require staggered timelines: criminal background checks take 15 working days (Vietnam) or 3-5+ weeks (home country) and are valid 6 months, health certificates require 3-5 days in Vietnam and are valid 12 months, degree legalization needs 2-4 weeks through two-step authentication process, TEFL certificate legalization adds 1-2 weeks, and all foreign documents require Vietnamese translation (5-7 days) plus notarization (2-3 days). Start document preparation minimum 2-3 months before intended employment date to ensure all materials ready when employer submits work permit application.
Criminal Background Check: Vietnam vs. Home Country
Vietnam criminal record processing takes 15 working days (approximately 3 weeks) from submission, costs VND 200,000 (~$8.70 USD), and is valid for 6 months. Foreign nationals who have resided in Vietnam for less than 6 months must obtain criminal check from home country instead. Home country processing varies: USA (FBI) requires 12-14 weeks, UK (DBS) takes 8-12 weeks, Australia needs 4-6 weeks, Canada requires 4-8 weeks. All foreign criminal checks must be legalized in home country, then by Vietnam Embassy, adding 2-4 weeks, plus Vietnamese translation (5-7 days).
Vietnam Criminal Check Requirements:
- Application location: Department of Justice of province/city where residing, or National Center for Criminal Records (9 Tran Vy Street, Cau Giay District, Hanoi)
- Required documents: Application Form 03, certified passport copy (all pages including visa stamps), temporary residence certificate from landlord certified by local police
- Processing: 15 working days from submission
- Cost: VND 200,000 for 2 copies (additional copies: VND 5,000 each from 3rd copy onward)
- Validity: 6 months from issue date
Home Country Criminal Check:
- Must be obtained if Vietnam residence less than 6 months at time of work permit application
- Requires legalization by home country competent authority (Ministry of Foreign Affairs or designated office)
- Then legalized by Vietnam Embassy/Consulate in issuing country
- Must be translated into Vietnamese by certified translator
- Validity: 6 months from issue date
Health Certificate: Vietnam vs. Foreign
Foreign teachers can obtain health certificates from authorized Vietnamese hospitals/clinics in 3-5 days, costing VND 1-4 million ($40-160 USD), valid for 12 months. This is faster and often cheaper than home country legalization. Health certificates issued abroad are accepted only if Vietnam has mutual recognition agreement with issuing country. Major cities (Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, Da Nang) have international hospitals familiar with work permit requirements who can complete examinations within 3-5 working days.
Health Certificate Requirements (Vietnamese hospitals):
- General health examination
- Blood tests (CBC, blood type, HIV, hepatitis)
- Chest X-ray (tuberculosis screening)
- Doctor’s certification of fitness to work
- Processing: 3-5 working days
- Cost: VND 1-4 million depending on hospital (VND 1-2 million at public hospitals, VND 2-4 million at international hospitals)
- Validity: 12 months from issue date
- No legalization required if issued by Vietnamese facility
Foreign Health Certificate (if used):
- Only accepted if Vietnam has mutual recognition agreement with issuing country
- Must be issued within 12 months of work permit application
- Requires consular legalization and Vietnamese translation
- Most teachers find obtaining health certificate in Vietnam more practical
Degree and TEFL Certificate Legalization
University degree legalization requires 2-4 weeks total: 1-2 weeks for home country Ministry of Foreign Affairs authentication, then 1-2 weeks for Vietnam Embassy/Consulate legalization. TEFL/TESOL/CELTA certificates follow identical legalization procedures, adding another 1-2 weeks. Teachers should initiate degree legalization at least 6-8 weeks before planned Vietnam arrival. Apostille countries (Hague Convention signatories) may process slightly faster in 5-10 days per step but still require both home country and Vietnam authentication.
Degree Legalization Process:
Step 1: Home Country Authentication (1-2 weeks)
- Contact Ministry of Foreign Affairs or designated authentication office in degree-issuing country
- Submit original degree or certified copy
- Pay authentication fee (varies by country)
- Receive authenticated/apostilled document
Step 2: Vietnam Embassy Legalization (1-2 weeks)
- Locate Vietnam Embassy/Consulate serving your country
- Submit authenticated degree with required forms
- Pay legalization fee (varies by embassy, typically $50-150 USD)
- Receive Vietnam-legalized document
Step 3: Vietnamese Translation (5-7 days)
- Use certified translation service in Vietnam
- Translation must include notarization seal
- Cost: VND 500,000-2 million per degree depending on page count and language
TEFL Certificate Legalization:
- Follows identical 3-step process as degree
- 120-hour minimum required for most teaching positions
- Must be from recognized provider (TEFL, TESOL, CELTA, Trinity CertTESOL)
- Total timeline: 3-5 weeks including translation
Important note: Some teachers attempt to legalize documents after arriving in Vietnam—this is problematic as home country authentication typically requires in-person submission or notarized representative in home country. Complete all legalization before departing for Vietnam.
Worried about common application mistakes that lead to rejection? Learn how to avoid them: Top 10 Reasons for Vietnam Work Permit Rejection and How to Avoid Them
What Are the Official Costs for Vietnam Work Permit?
Vietnam work permit official government fee is VND 400,000 ($20 USD) for new applications, VND 300,000 ($15 USD) for re-issuance, and VND 200,000 (~$10 USD) for renewals per Decree 152/2020. However, total costs reach $500-1,500 USD when including: criminal record check (VND 200,000 for Vietnam check plus $50-200 USD for home country check), health certificate (VND 1-4 million / $40-160 USD), consular legalization ($50-300 USD per document varies by country), Vietnamese translation and notarization (VND 500,000-2 million / $20-80 USD per document), and optional service agency processing assistance ($200-500 USD).
Complete Cost Breakdown:
| Cost Category | Amount (VND) | Amount (USD) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Work Permit Fee (New) | 400,000 | ~$20 | Government stamp fee |
| Work Permit Renewal | 200,000 | ~$10 | One-time renewal allowed |
| Work Permit Re-issuance | 300,000 | ~$15 | Lost/damaged permit |
| Criminal Check (Vietnam) | 200,000 | ~$8.70 | 2 copies included |
| Criminal Check (Home Country) | Varies | $50-200 | Country-specific |
| Health Certificate (Vietnam) | 1-4 million | $40-160 | Hospital-dependent |
| Consular Legalization | Varies | $50-300 | Per document, per country |
| Vietnamese Translation | 500,000-2 million | $20-80 | Per document |
| Notarization Services | 100,000-500,000 | $4-20 | Per document |
| Service Agency (Optional) | 5-10 million | $200-500 | Full application processing |
| TOTAL ESTIMATED | 10-30 million | $400-1,500 | Complete process |
Notes on Costs:
- Work permit fees established in Decree 152/2020; Decree 219/2025 does not change government stamp fees
- Criminal check cost: Additional VND 5,000 per copy from 3rd copy onward
- Health certificate cost varies: public hospitals (VND 1-2 million), international hospitals (VND 2-4 million)
- Consular legalization costs vary significantly by country and embassy
- Vietnamese translation costs depend on document length, language pair, and service urgency
- Service agencies handle entire process but add $200-500 fee; many legitimate employers cover this cost
Who pays these costs? Legitimate employers typically cover most work permit costs including government fees, translation, and legalization. Teachers usually responsible for obtaining original documents (criminal check from home country, passport photos) and may pay for expedited services. Always clarify cost responsibility in employment contract before accepting position.
What Happens If I Work Without a Valid Permit?
Working in Vietnam without valid work permit results in severe penalties: foreign workers face fines of VND 15-25 million ($588-980 USD) plus mandatory deportation, per Decree 12/2022/ND-CP. Employers hiring workers without proper permits receive fines of VND 30-75 million ($1,176-2,940 USD) based on number of violations: VND 30-45 million for 1-10 workers, VND 45-60 million for 11-20 workers, VND 60-75 million for 21+ workers. Violations also result in entry ban, blacklisting from future Vietnam employment, and potential criminal prosecution for repeat offenders. Organizations (enterprises) face double the individual employer penalties.
Teaching on Tourist Visa: Risks and Consequences
Teaching English or any work on tourist visa is illegal in Vietnam and grounds for immediate deportation, fines of VND 15-25 million, and potential 5-10 year entry ban. While some schools suggest “training period” or “observer” arrangements, these are illegal workarounds exposing both teacher and school to penalties. Only Business Visa or LD (work) visa holders with valid work permits issued by Provincial People’s Committee (under Decree 219/2025) or DOLISA/MOLISA (under Decree 152/2020) can legally teach.
Enforcement actions when caught:
- Immediate confiscation of passport
- Detention until fine payment (cash payment required)
- Forced exit from Vietnam within 24-48 hours
- Deportation stamp in passport affecting future visa applications globally
- Entry ban to Vietnam: 5-10 years minimum
- Shared immigration databases: ASEAN nations may deny entry based on Vietnam violation
- Employer penalties: school faces VND 30-75 million fine, potential license suspension
Common misconceptions:
- “Many teachers work illegally without problems” — Enforcement increased significantly since 2020; risks far exceed $400-1,500 legal processing costs
- “Tourist visa allows ‘unpaid volunteer teaching'” — Any teaching activity, paid or unpaid, requires work permit
- “Business visa means I can work while waiting for permit” — Business visa allows business meetings only, not work activity; employment begins only after work permit issued
- “I can leave and re-enter Vietnam to reset visa” — Visa runs do not resolve illegal work status; immigration officers track work patterns and can deny re-entry
Long-Term Consequences Beyond Immediate Fines
Beyond immediate fines and deportation, illegal work violations create permanent immigration records affecting: Vietnam re-entry ban of 5-10 years minimum, Asia-wide visa difficulties in ASEAN nations with shared immigration databases, career damage as deportation records appear in background checks for future international teaching positions, employer penalties including school license suspension or revocation, and criminal record in home country if prosecution occurs. These consequences far exceed the $400-1,500 USD cost and 2-3 months timeline for legal work permit processing.
Professional impact:
- International teaching agencies require disclosure of visa violations
- Background checks reveal immigration violations
- School references from Vietnam school may be withheld due to illegal employment
- Future employers question integrity and judgment
Legal alternatives for pre-permit period:
- Enter Vietnam on Business Visa while employer processes work permit (2-3 months)
- Employer may offer unpaid “observation period” but teacher cannot teach any classes
- Teacher prepares lessons, attends training, observes classes (no direct student instruction)
- Salary begins only after work permit issued and labor contract signed
- Legitimate employers understand and budget for this 2-3 month onboarding timeline
When Should I Start the Work Permit Application Process?
Start work permit preparation minimum 2-3 months (8-12 weeks) before intended employment start date. Optimal timeline: Begin 3-4 months before departure to Vietnam. Critical milestone deadlines: Initiate criminal background check Week 1-2 (longest processing: 3-5+ weeks from home country or 15 working days from Vietnam), begin degree legalization Week 2-3 (requires 2-4 weeks two-step authentication), employer posts job opening at least 5 working days before application (Decree 219/2025) or 15 working days (Decree 152/2020), and submits complete work permit application 10 working days (Decree 219/2025) or 15 working days (Decree 152/2020) before employment begins. This buffer accounts for unexpected delays in home country processing, Vietnamese holidays (especially Tet), and document corrections.
Recommended Timeline (Working Backwards from Start Date):
12-16 Weeks Before (Ideal Start):
- Research employers and secure job offer with clear start date
- Immediately initiate criminal background check in home country (FBI/DBS/etc. processing: 3-5+ weeks)
- Begin gathering university degrees, TEFL certificates for legalization
- Contact home country Ministry of Foreign Affairs about authentication procedures
10-12 Weeks Before:
- Submit degrees for authentication by home country Ministry of Foreign Affairs (1-2 weeks processing)
- Receive authenticated/apostilled documents
- Submit authenticated documents to Vietnam Embassy/Consulate in home country for legalization (1-2 weeks)
- Prepare passport photos (4x6cm, white background, taken within last 6 months)
8-10 Weeks Before:
- Receive Vietnam Embassy-legalized documents
- Receive criminal background check from home country (if applicable)
- Arrange to send legalized documents to employer in Vietnam via courier (DHL/FedEx: 3-5 days)
6-8 Weeks Before:
- Enter Vietnam on Business Visa (employer-sponsored letter provided)
- Employer arranges Vietnamese translation services for all documents (5-7 days)
- Complete health certificate at Vietnamese hospital (3-5 working days)
- If eligible (resided in Vietnam less than 6 months), obtain Vietnam criminal check from Department of Justice or National Center for Criminal Records (15 working days)
4-6 Weeks Before (30-45 Days):
- Employer receives all translated and notarized documents
- Employer posts job opening announcement on public platform or company channels for minimum 5 working days (Decree 219/2025)
- Employer prepares work permit application Form 03 (Decree 219/2025) or Forms 01/PLI and 11/PLI (Decree 152/2020)
2-3 Weeks Before (10-15 Days):
- Employer submits complete work permit application to Provincial People’s Committee (Decree 219/2025) or DOLISA (Decree 152/2020)
- Government processing begins: 10 working days (Decree 219/2025) or 20-30 working days (Decree 152/2020)
- Note: Applications submitted before August 7, 2025, process under old timeline; applications on/after August 7, 2025, process under new timeline
Work Start Date:
- Receive work permit (Form 12/PLI)
- Sign official labor contract with employer (contract duration cannot exceed work permit validity)
- Employer submits signed contract copy to issuing authority within 5 working days
- Teaching can legally commence
Tet Holiday Adjustment: If employment begins during or shortly after Tet (Lunar New Year, typically late January/early February), add additional 3-4 weeks buffer. Example: Employment start date March 1 → Begin process by November 1 (4 months prior) to account for 7-10 day government closure plus 2-3 week backlog after holiday.
How Long Is the Work Permit Valid?
Vietnam work permits are valid for maximum 2 years per Decree 219/2025 and Labor Code 2019, matching labor contract duration but never exceeding 2-year ceiling. Permits can be renewed once for additional 2-year period, creating maximum total validity of 4 years. After 4 years, foreign workers must apply for completely new work permit through full application process with fresh documentation. Renewal applications must be submitted at least 45 days before current permit expires (minimum 5 days legally required per Decree 152/2020, but 45 days strongly recommended to avoid gaps). Work permit validity directly determines Temporary Residence Card (TRC) eligibility—TRC validity cannot exceed work permit duration.
Work Permit Validity Rules:
Initial Work Permit:
- Maximum validity: 2 years
- Actual validity: Matches labor contract duration (if contract 1 year, permit issued for 1 year)
- Cannot exceed 2 years regardless of contract length
- Validity period printed on work permit Form 12/PLI
- Must remain valid for entire employment duration
Renewal (One-Time Only):
- Allowed only once per work permit
- Maximum renewal period: 2 years
- Can renew if remaining validity between 5-45 days (optimal timing: 45 days before expiry)
- Requires: renewal application, valid passport, labor contract extension, updated health certificate (if original expires), current work permit
- Processing time: 10 working days (Decree 219/2025) or 5 working days (Decree 152/2020)
- Cost: VND 200,000 (~$10 USD)
- Cannot renew expired permit—must apply for new permit if expired
After 4 Years (Maximum Total):
- Must apply for completely new work permit
- Repeat full application process: criminal check, health certificate, degree legalization (if not still valid), demand approval, complete application dossier
- No “automatic renewal” or simplified process after 4-year maximum
- Processing timeline returns to 2-3 months including document preparation
Can I Work for Different Employers With Same Permit?
No—work permits are employer-specific and position-specific per Labor Code 2019 Article 151. Work permit states: employing company name, job position, work location (province/city). Changing employers requires applying for new work permit with new employer as sponsor. However, under Decree 219/2025 Article 25, work permit issued in one province can be used for work in multiple provinces if: (1) initial application lists all intended work locations, or (2) employer notifies local labor authority at least 3 working days before employee starts work in new location (notification must include: full name, age, nationality, passport number, work permit number, employer name, start/end dates not exceeding permit validity).
Changing employers process:
- Teacher must terminate employment with current employer
- Current employer returns work permit to issuing authority
- New employer initiates completely new work permit application
- Teacher cannot work for new employer until new work permit issued
- Gap between jobs allowed if visa/TRC remains valid
- Processing timeline: 10 working days (Decree 219/2025) or 20-30 working days (Decree 152/2020) plus document preparation
Working multiple locations (same employer):
- Under Decree 219/2025: can work in multiple provinces with single work permit if properly declared
- Example: Teacher employed by language center chain with branches in Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, Da Nang
- Initial application must list all provinces where teaching may occur, OR
- Employer files notification 3 working days before teacher begins teaching at new branch location
- Simplifies process for businesses with multi-province operations
Frequently Asked Questions About Vietnam Work Permit Timeline
Can the work permit process be completed in less than 1 month?
Theoretically possible under Decree 219/2025 (10 working days official processing) but practically unlikely—requires all documents pre-prepared, legalized, and translated. Expedited processing possible only if: criminal check already obtained from home country (3-5 weeks advance), all degrees pre-legalized through two-step authentication (2-4 weeks), teacher already in Vietnam on valid Business Visa, and application submitted during off-peak season. Realistically, even “fast-tracked” processing requires 6-8 weeks total from document initiation to final permit issuance. Most teachers should plan 2-3 months minimum to avoid stress and potential employment start delays.
Does online submission speed up the timeline?
Slightly—online submission through National Public Service Portal (procedure code 194248 or 9151) saves 2-3 days compared to in-person submission by eliminating mail/courier time. Official processing remains 10 working days (Decree 219/2025) regardless of submission method. Primary advantage: real-time status tracking and immediate notification of document deficiencies, reducing correction delays. However, original documents must still be prepared physically for final verification, so document preparation timeline (2-3 months) remains unchanged. Online system allows viewing application status, downloading approval notices, and tracking processing stages through government portal.
What if my work permit application is rejected?
Rejected applications receive written explanation within 3 working days (Decree 219/2025) or reasonable timeframe (Decree 152/2020) specifying deficiency reasons. Common rejection causes: incomplete/incorrect documentation, expired supporting documents (criminal check older than 6 months, health certificate older than 12 months), insufficient qualifications (no bachelor’s degree or alternative 5 years documented teaching experience), employer demand justification insufficient, or position requirements not matching stated qualifications. After rejection, applicants can reapply immediately after correcting deficiencies—no mandatory waiting period. Reapplication follows same timeline: 10 working days (Decree 219/2025) or 20-30 working days (Decree 152/2020) processing. Teachers should verify all requirements meticulously before initial submission to avoid 4-6 week reprocessing delays.
Can I start teaching while waiting for my work permit?
Absolutely not—Vietnamese law strictly prohibits any work activity before work permit issuance per Labor Code 2019 Article 151. Teaching even one class without valid permit violates immigration law, risking VND 15-25 million fines, immediate deportation, and 5-10 year entry ban. Some schools suggest “training period” or “observer” arrangements—these are illegal workarounds exposing both teacher and school to penalties (school faces VND 30-75 million fines, potential license suspension). Only legal option: Enter Vietnam on Business Visa (employer-sponsored), complete work permit processing (2-3 months), receive permit, sign labor contract, then begin teaching. Legitimate schools understand this timeline and budget for 2-3 month onboarding periods for foreign teachers without expecting illegal work.
How does Tet (Lunar New Year) affect processing times?
Tet significantly impacts timelines as Vietnamese government offices close for 7-10 consecutive days (typically late January/early February, dates vary yearly by lunar calendar). Applications submitted 2-3 weeks before Tet experience delays: offices close mid-processing, staff take extended leave (10-14 days common), backlog accumulates extending post-Tet processing by 2-3 weeks. Critical planning rule: Avoid applications December through February if possible. If teaching contract begins post-Tet (February-March), initiate work permit process before November to ensure completion before holiday closures. Plan additional 3-4 weeks buffer if Tet falls within processing window. Check Vietnamese holiday calendar annually as Tet date changes per lunar calendar (ranges: mid-January to mid-February).
2026 Tet dates: January 28 – February 3, 2026 (7 days official), plus extended staff leave typically January 24 – February 8 (2 weeks practical closure).
Are there work permit exemptions for English teachers?
Generally no—English teachers (ESL/EFL) working in schools, language centers, or businesses require full work permits regardless of employment duration exceeding 3 months per Labor Code 2019. Limited exemptions exist under Decree 219/2025 Article 7: (1) Teachers at schools managed by foreign diplomatic missions or international organizations (requires Ministry of Education and Training certification per Article 7, Clause 14), (2) Short-term teaching under 90 cumulative days per year (January 1 – December 31) for lectures, seminars, workshops—not regular classroom teaching (Article 7, Clause 13), and (3) Teachers certified by ministries/provincial People’s Committees working in priority sectors (finance, science, technology, innovation, digital transformation) per Article 7, Clause 15. Standard English teachers at private language centers, public schools, international schools, and universities do not qualify for exemptions and must complete full work permit process (2-3 months timeline). Teachers claiming exemption must still file notification with Provincial People’s Committee 3 working days before employment begins; failure to notify results in penalties.
Can I extend my work permit if my contract is extended?
Yes, but only once with maximum 2-year extension creating 4-year total limit. Extension applications must be submitted when remaining permit validity is at least 5 days but not exceeding 45 days (Decree 152/2020 Article 16, Clause 1). Recommended timing: 45 days before expiry to ensure processing completes before current permit expires. Extension requires: renewal application form, valid passport with minimum 6 months validity, labor contract extension document, current work permit, updated health certificate (if original will expire during renewal period), employer letter requesting extension. Processing: 10 working days (Decree 219/2025) or 5 working days (Decree 152/2020). Cost: VND 200,000 (~$10 USD). After single extension expires (4 years total), must apply for completely new work permit with full documentation and processing timeline.
The Vietnam work permit timeline requires strategic planning and early preparation to avoid delays that could jeopardize teaching positions. While official processing takes 10 working days (Decree 219/2025, effective August 7, 2025) or 20-30 working days (Decree 152/2020, for applications submitted before August 7, 2025), realistic complete timeline spans 2-3 months when accounting for document preparation, legalization, translation, and potential delays from holidays, peak seasons, or document corrections.
For foreign teachers, the Vietnam work permit timeline demands patience and meticulous preparation. Working with reputable schools through Vietnam Teaching Jobs that understand legal requirements, initiate applications early, and provide comprehensive support transforms the complex 2-3 month process into manageable step-by-step progression culminating in legal teaching careers. Cutting corners or working illegally exposes teachers to severe penalties far exceeding time and cost of proper processing—legal compliance protects both career and future international mobility.
Need More Legal Guidance for Teaching in Vietnam?
Navigating Vietnam’s work permit regulations is essential for teaching legally in this dynamic country. From visa requirements to Temporary Residence Cards, understanding Vietnamese immigration and labor law ensures smooth, stress-free teaching experiences.
Explore our complete Legal & Visa Requirements guides at Vietnam Teaching Jobs:
- Criminal background check procedures and document authentication processes
- Vietnam visa types and conversion processes specific to foreign teachers
- Temporary Residence Card application timelines and renewal procedures
- Employment contract negotiation and labor law protections for educators
- Tax obligations and social insurance requirements for foreign teachers
- Common legal pitfalls and how to avoid work permit rejection
Browse All Legal & Visa Guides at Vietnam Teaching Jobs
Stay informed, stay legal, and focus on what matters most—inspiring your Vietnamese students with quality English education.
