Clinical work — practice licence and labour paper are two gates

In plain termsForeign doctors and nurses earn in private and international hospitals. Health law adds a practice-licence gate on top of the ordinary foreign-worker stack. A visa alone does not grant work (

Source BLLĐ / NĐ 219 — labour permission (permit or exemption) is a separate system from immigration status

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Method: figures past 2× SLA hide. See /method · /status · /changelog.

What people actually do

Clinicians appear in FV, Vinmec, and other international-facing facilities, plus specialty clinics and teaching posts. Default language of practice is Vietnamese (

yes

Source Luật 15/2023 Điều 21 khoản 1

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); listed exceptions exist (

yes

Source Luật 15/2023 Điều 21 khoản 2–3

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Method: figures past 2× SLA hide. See /method · /status · /changelog.

). Humanitarian / tech-transfer batches can skip standing-licence limbs (

yes

Source Luật 15/2023 Điều 19 khoản 3

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Method: figures past 2× SLA hide. See /method · /status · /changelog.

) — that is not a standing job.

Dual gates

1. Medical practice licence
Clinical practice requires a valid licence (
yes
Source Luật 15/2023/QH15 Điều 19 khoản 1 điểm a (VBHN 26/VBHN-VPQH; nguon/LUAT_15_2023_KCB_PRACTICE.md)
Checked Aug 2026 · Band low · Status fresh
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Method: figures past 2× SLA hide. See /method · /status · /changelog.
). One licence per person, nationwide (
yes
Source Luật 15/2023 Điều 27 khoản 1
Checked Aug 2026 · Band low · Status fresh
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Method: figures past 2× SLA hide. See /method · /status · /changelog.
), term
5 years
Source Luật 15/2023 Điều 27 khoản 2
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Method: figures past 2× SLA hide. See /method · /status · /changelog.
. Usual issuer:
provincial health authority (except facilities under MoH, Ministry of Defence, or Ministry of Public Security)
Source Luật 15/2023 Điều 28 khoản 1 điểm d
Checked Aug 2026 · Band low · Status fresh
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.
Foreign licences have a recognition path (
yes
Source Luật 15/2023 Điều 29 khoản 1
Checked Aug 2026 · Band low · Status fresh
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Method: figures past 2× SLA hide. See /method · /status · /changelog.
) at the
Ministry of Health
Source Luật 15/2023 Điều 29 khoản 2 điểm a
Checked Aug 2026 · Band low · Status fresh
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Method: figures past 2× SLA hide. See /method · /status · /changelog.
, reply clock
30 days
Source Luật 15/2023 Điều 29 khoản 2 điểm b; NĐ 96/2023 Điều 37
Checked Aug 2026 · Band med · Status fresh
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Method: figures past 2× SLA hide. See /method · /status · /changelog.
. Recognised licences skip Vietnam practice hours and the competency exam (
yes
Source Luật 15/2023 Điều 29 khoản 4
Checked Aug 2026 · Band low · Status fresh
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Method: figures past 2× SLA hide. See /method · /status · /changelog.
). New-licence clock:
30 days
Source Luật 15/2023 Điều 30 khoản 5 điểm b
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Method: figures past 2× SLA hide. See /method · /status · /changelog.
. If foreign documents need verification, that clock runs from the verification result (
30 days
Source Luật 15/2023 Điều 30 khoản 5 điểm c
Checked Aug 2026 · Band med · Status fresh
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Method: figures past 2× SLA hide. See /method · /status · /changelog.
). Exam fees and Vietnamese-language thresholds are not filed.
2. Work permit (or filed exemption)
Foreign workers generally need a permit (
yes
Source Bộ luật Lao động 45/2019/QH14 Điều 153 khoản 2
Checked Aug 2026 · Band low · Status fresh
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Method: figures past 2× SLA hide. See /method · /status · /changelog.
). Positions:
manager, executive, expert, technician
Source BLLĐ 45/2019 Điều 152 khoản 1; NĐ 219/2025/NĐ-CP Điều 3
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Method: figures past 2× SLA hide. See /method · /status · /changelog.
. Expert limbs:
2 years
Source NĐ 219/2025/NĐ-CP Điều 3 khoản 3 điểm a
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Method: figures past 2× SLA hide. See /method · /status · /changelog.
years matching experience. Labour paper does not replace the practice licence.

Stay usually LĐ, TRC capped at

2 years

Source Luật Nhập cảnh Điều 38 khoản 5

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Method: figures past 2× SLA hide. See /method · /status · /changelog.

. Consequence without lawful labour:

forced exit or deportation

Source BLLĐ 45/2019 Điều 153 khoản 2

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Method: figures past 2× SLA hide. See /method · /status · /changelog.

Tax and life

Resident worldwide (

yes

Source Luật 109/2025/QH15 Điều 2 khoản 1; NĐ 253/2026/NĐ-CP Điều 6 khoản 2 điểm a

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Method: figures past 2× SLA hide. See /method · /status · /changelog.

). Non-resident employment flat

20%

Source Luật 109/2025/QH15 Điều 21; NĐ 253/2026/NĐ-CP Điều 64 khoản 1

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Method: figures past 2× SLA hide. See /method · /status · /changelog.

. Personal health cover for your family is a different product from your right to practice — see health insurance.

Dead ends

Tourist stamp + clinic shifts.
Home-country medical licence alone as Vietnam practice rights.
Assuming a hospital job offer skips the Ministry of Health gate.

Open the next door

Earn hubAll clusters Work permitLabour gate Health insurancePersonal cover, not practice Work purposeLabour → stay → tax

Evidence and sources14 dated facts for Vietnam medical practice licence (clinical)

The readable briefing above uses these cells. Open a source only when you need to verify a number, date, or legal gate.

Clinical practice in Vietnam requires a valid practice licence
Luật 15/2023/QH15 Điều 19 khoản 1 điểm a (VBHN 26/VBHN-VPQH; nguon/LUAT_15_2023_KCB_PRACTICE.md)
yes
Source Luật 15/2023/QH15 Điều 19 khoản 1 điểm a (VBHN 26/VBHN-VPQH; nguon/LUAT_15_2023_KCB_PRACTICE.md)
Checked Aug 2026 · Band low · Status fresh
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Method: figures past 2× SLA hide. See /method · /status · /changelog.
checked Aug 2026
Professional titles that require a practice licence
Luật 15/2023 Điều 26 khoản 1
doctor; assistant doctor; nurse; midwife; medical technician; clinical nutritionist; out-of-hospital emergency practitioner; clinical psychologist; traditional practitioner; holder of a family remedy or method
Source Luật 15/2023 Điều 26 khoản 1
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Method: figures past 2× SLA hide. See /method · /status · /changelog.
checked Aug 2026
Practice-licence term
Luật 15/2023 Điều 27 khoản 2
5 years
Source Luật 15/2023 Điều 27 khoản 2
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Method: figures past 2× SLA hide. See /method · /status · /changelog.
checked Aug 2026
One licence per person, valid nationwide
Luật 15/2023 Điều 27 khoản 1
yes
Source Luật 15/2023 Điều 27 khoản 1
Checked Aug 2026 · Band low · Status fresh
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Method: figures past 2× SLA hide. See /method · /status · /changelog.
checked Aug 2026
Usual issuing authority for private / provincial facilities
Luật 15/2023 Điều 28 khoản 1 điểm d
provincial health authority (except facilities under MoH, Ministry of Defence, or Ministry of Public Security)
Source Luật 15/2023 Điều 28 khoản 1 điểm d
Checked Aug 2026 · Band low · Status fresh
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Method: figures past 2× SLA hide. See /method · /status · /changelog.
checked Aug 2026
Foreign practice licences can be recognised (not automatic)
Luật 15/2023 Điều 29 khoản 1
yes
Source Luật 15/2023 Điều 29 khoản 1
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Method: figures past 2× SLA hide. See /method · /status · /changelog.
checked Aug 2026
Recognition dossier is filed with the Ministry of Health
Luật 15/2023 Điều 29 khoản 2 điểm a
Ministry of Health
Source Luật 15/2023 Điều 29 khoản 2 điểm a
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Method: figures past 2× SLA hide. See /method · /status · /changelog.
checked Aug 2026
MoH must reply on recognition within this many days of receiving the dossier
Luật 15/2023 Điều 29 khoản 2 điểm b; NĐ 96/2023 Điều 37
30 days
Source Luật 15/2023 Điều 29 khoản 2 điểm b; NĐ 96/2023 Điều 37
Checked Aug 2026 · Band med · Status fresh
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Method: figures past 2× SLA hide. See /method · /status · /changelog.
checked Aug 2026
Recognised foreign licence skips Vietnam clinical practice hours and competency exam
Luật 15/2023 Điều 29 khoản 4
yes
Source Luật 15/2023 Điều 29 khoản 4
Checked Aug 2026 · Band low · Status fresh
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Method: figures past 2× SLA hide. See /method · /status · /changelog.
checked Aug 2026
Default language of clinical practice is Vietnamese
Luật 15/2023 Điều 21 khoản 1
yes
Source Luật 15/2023 Điều 21 khoản 1
Checked Aug 2026 · Band low · Status fresh
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Method: figures past 2× SLA hide. See /method · /status · /changelog.
checked Aug 2026
Listed exceptions allow another language; some cases need an interpreter
Luật 15/2023 Điều 21 khoản 2–3
yes
Source Luật 15/2023 Điều 21 khoản 2–3
Checked Aug 2026 · Band low · Status fresh
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Method: figures past 2× SLA hide. See /method · /status · /changelog.
checked Aug 2026
New licence decision within this many days of a complete dossier
Luật 15/2023 Điều 30 khoản 5 điểm b
30 days
Source Luật 15/2023 Điều 30 khoản 5 điểm b
Checked Aug 2026 · Band med · Status fresh
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Method: figures past 2× SLA hide. See /method · /status · /changelog.
checked Aug 2026
Humanitarian / tech-transfer batches can skip the standing licence + registration limbs
Luật 15/2023 Điều 19 khoản 3
yes
Source Luật 15/2023 Điều 19 khoản 3
Checked Aug 2026 · Band low · Status fresh
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Method: figures past 2× SLA hide. See /method · /status · /changelog.
checked Aug 2026
When foreign documents need verification, the new-licence clock runs from the verification result
Luật 15/2023 Điều 30 khoản 5 điểm c
30 days
Source Luật 15/2023 Điều 30 khoản 5 điểm c
Checked Aug 2026 · Band med · Status fresh
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Method: figures past 2× SLA hide. See /method · /status · /changelog.
checked Aug 2026

Evidence and sources76 dated facts for Vietnam work permit for foreigners

The readable briefing above uses these cells. Open a source only when you need to verify a number, date, or legal gate.

Foreign workers generally need a work permit
Bộ luật Lao động 45/2019/QH14 Điều 153 khoản 2
yes
Source Bộ luật Lao động 45/2019/QH14 Điều 153 khoản 2
Checked Aug 2026 · Band low · Status fresh
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Method: figures past 2× SLA hide. See /method · /status · /changelog.
checked Aug 2026
Positions for which foreigners may be hired
BLLĐ 45/2019 Điều 152 khoản 1; NĐ 219/2025/NĐ-CP Điều 3
manager, executive, expert, technician
Source BLLĐ 45/2019 Điều 152 khoản 1; NĐ 219/2025/NĐ-CP Điều 3
Checked Aug 2026 · Band low · Status fresh
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Method: figures past 2× SLA hide. See /method · /status · /changelog.
checked Aug 2026
Maximum work-permit term
BLLĐ 45/2019 Điều 155; NĐ 219/2025/NĐ-CP Điều 21
24 months
Source BLLĐ 45/2019 Điều 155; NĐ 219/2025/NĐ-CP Điều 21
Checked Aug 2026 · Band low · Status fresh
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Method: figures past 2× SLA hide. See /method · /status · /changelog.
checked Aug 2026
Maximum term of a one-time renewal
BLLĐ 45/2019 Điều 155; NĐ 219/2025/NĐ-CP Điều 29
24 months
Source BLLĐ 45/2019 Điều 155; NĐ 219/2025/NĐ-CP Điều 29
Checked Aug 2026 · Band low · Status fresh
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Method: figures past 2× SLA hide. See /method · /status · /changelog.
checked Aug 2026
Married to a Vietnamese citizen and living in Vietnam — permit exempt
BLLĐ 45/2019 Điều 154 khoản 8 (via NĐ 219/2025 Điều 7 khoản 1)
yes
Source BLLĐ 45/2019 Điều 154 khoản 8 (via NĐ 219/2025 Điều 7 khoản 1)
Checked Aug 2026 · Band low · Status fresh
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Method: figures past 2× SLA hide. See /method · /status · /changelog.
checked Aug 2026
Capital contribution threshold for owner/board exemption
NĐ 219/2025/NĐ-CP Điều 7 khoản 2–3
3,000,000,000 VND
Source NĐ 219/2025/NĐ-CP Điều 7 khoản 2–3
Checked Aug 2026 · Band high · Status fresh
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Method: figures past 2× SLA hide. See /method · /status · /changelog.
checked Aug 2026
Under this many work days in a calendar year — permit exempt
NĐ 219/2025/NĐ-CP Điều 7 khoản 13 điểm a
90 days
Source NĐ 219/2025/NĐ-CP Điều 7 khoản 13 điểm a
Checked Aug 2026 · Band high · Status fresh
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Method: figures past 2× SLA hide. See /method · /status · /changelog.
checked Aug 2026
Under 3 months to sell services — permit exempt
BLLĐ 45/2019 Điều 154 khoản 4
yes
Source BLLĐ 45/2019 Điều 154 khoản 4
Checked Aug 2026 · Band low · Status fresh
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Method: figures past 2× SLA hide. See /method · /status · /changelog.
checked Aug 2026
NĐ 219/2025 effective date
NĐ 219/2025/NĐ-CP Điều 35 khoản 1
2025-08-07
Source NĐ 219/2025/NĐ-CP Điều 35 khoản 1
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Method: figures past 2× SLA hide. See /method · /status · /changelog.
checked Aug 2026
Issuing authority
NĐ 219/2025/NĐ-CP Điều 4
provincial People's Committee where the foreigner will work
Source NĐ 219/2025/NĐ-CP Điều 4
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Method: figures past 2× SLA hide. See /method · /status · /changelog.
checked Aug 2026
Work permit may be renewed this many times
BLLĐ 45/2019 Điều 155; NĐ 219/2025 Điều 29
1
Source BLLĐ 45/2019 Điều 155; NĐ 219/2025 Điều 29
Checked Aug 2026 · Band low · Status fresh
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Method: figures past 2× SLA hide. See /method · /status · /changelog.
checked Aug 2026
One permit cycle ceiling before a fresh issue is required
BLLĐ 45/2019 Điều 155 — 24 + one renewal 24, then new issue
48 months
Source BLLĐ 45/2019 Điều 155 — 24 + one renewal 24, then new issue
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Method: figures past 2× SLA hide. See /method · /status · /changelog.
checked Aug 2026
Under 3 months for complex tech incident — permit exempt
BLLĐ 45/2019 Điều 154 khoản 5 (via NĐ 219 Điều 7 khoản 1)
yes
Source BLLĐ 45/2019 Điều 154 khoản 5 (via NĐ 219 Điều 7 khoản 1)
Checked Aug 2026 · Band low · Status fresh
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Method: figures past 2× SLA hide. See /method · /status · /changelog.
checked Aug 2026
Licensed foreign lawyer in Vietnam — permit exempt
BLLĐ 45/2019 Điều 154 khoản 6 (via NĐ 219 Điều 7 khoản 1)
yes
Source BLLĐ 45/2019 Điều 154 khoản 6 (via NĐ 219 Điều 7 khoản 1)
Checked Aug 2026 · Band low · Status fresh
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Method: figures past 2× SLA hide. See /method · /status · /changelog.
checked Aug 2026
Head of foreign NGO / international org project or rep office — permit exempt
BLLĐ 45/2019 Điều 154 khoản 3 (via NĐ 219 Điều 7 khoản 1)
yes
Source BLLĐ 45/2019 Điều 154 khoản 3 (via NĐ 219 Điều 7 khoản 1)
Checked Aug 2026 · Band low · Status fresh
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Method: figures past 2× SLA hide. See /method · /status · /changelog.
checked Aug 2026
Cases under an international treaty Vietnam is party to — permit exempt
BLLĐ 45/2019 Điều 154 khoản 7 (via NĐ 219 Điều 7 khoản 1)
yes
Source BLLĐ 45/2019 Điều 154 khoản 7 (via NĐ 219 Điều 7 khoản 1)
Checked Aug 2026 · Band low · Status fresh
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Method: figures past 2× SLA hide. See /method · /status · /changelog.
checked Aug 2026
Priority-field confirmation exemption (filed categories)
NĐ 219/2025/NĐ-CP Điều 7 khoản 14–15
finance; science & technology; innovation; national digital transformation — with ministry/provincial confirmation
Source NĐ 219/2025/NĐ-CP Điều 7 khoản 14–15
Checked Aug 2026 · Band high · Status fresh
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Method: figures past 2× SLA hide. See /method · /status · /changelog.
checked Aug 2026
Owner/board with capital below the exemption threshold still needs a permit
NĐ 219/2025/NĐ-CP Điều 2 khoản 1 điểm l
yes
Source NĐ 219/2025/NĐ-CP Điều 2 khoản 1 điểm l
Checked Aug 2026 · Band high · Status fresh
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Method: figures past 2× SLA hide. See /method · /status · /changelog.
checked Aug 2026
Authority when work spans multiple provinces
NĐ 219/2025/NĐ-CP Điều 4
People's Committee where the employer's head office is
Source NĐ 219/2025/NĐ-CP Điều 4
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Method: figures past 2× SLA hide. See /method · /status · /changelog.
checked Aug 2026
Filing channel for work-permit dossiers
NĐ 219/2025/NĐ-CP Điều 6, Điều 22
National Public Service Portal; Public Administration Service Centre
Source NĐ 219/2025/NĐ-CP Điều 6, Điều 22
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Method: figures past 2× SLA hide. See /method · /status · /changelog.
checked Aug 2026
Criminal-record certificate is bundled in the same dossier
NĐ 219/2025/NĐ-CP Điều 6
yes
Source NĐ 219/2025/NĐ-CP Điều 6
Checked Aug 2026 · Band high · Status fresh
Open primary URL
Method: figures past 2× SLA hide. See /method · /status · /changelog.
checked Aug 2026
Earliest days before start date to file a new permit
NĐ 219/2025/NĐ-CP Điều 22
10 days
Source NĐ 219/2025/NĐ-CP Điều 22
Checked Aug 2026 · Band high · Status fresh
Open primary URL
Method: figures past 2× SLA hide. See /method · /status · /changelog.
checked Aug 2026
Latest days before start date to file a new permit
NĐ 219/2025/NĐ-CP Điều 22
60 days
Source NĐ 219/2025/NĐ-CP Điều 22
Checked Aug 2026 · Band high · Status fresh
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Method: figures past 2× SLA hide. See /method · /status · /changelog.
checked Aug 2026
Statutory processing days to issue a permit
NĐ 219/2025/NĐ-CP Điều 22 (Mẫu số 04)
10 working days
Source NĐ 219/2025/NĐ-CP Điều 22 (Mẫu số 04)
Checked Aug 2026 · Band high · Status fresh
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checked Aug 2026
Statutory days to refuse in writing
NĐ 219/2025/NĐ-CP Điều 22
3 working days
Source NĐ 219/2025/NĐ-CP Điều 22
Checked Aug 2026 · Band high · Status fresh
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Method: figures past 2× SLA hide. See /method · /status · /changelog.
checked Aug 2026
Earliest days before expiry to file renewal
NĐ 219/2025/NĐ-CP Điều 28
10 days
Source NĐ 219/2025/NĐ-CP Điều 28
Checked Aug 2026 · Band high · Status fresh
Open primary URL
Method: figures past 2× SLA hide. See /method · /status · /changelog.
checked Aug 2026
Latest days before expiry to file renewal
NĐ 219/2025/NĐ-CP Điều 28
45 days
Source NĐ 219/2025/NĐ-CP Điều 28
Checked Aug 2026 · Band high · Status fresh
Open primary URL
Method: figures past 2× SLA hide. See /method · /status · /changelog.
checked Aug 2026
Max age of health certificate for renewal
NĐ 219/2025/NĐ-CP Điều 27
12 months
Source NĐ 219/2025/NĐ-CP Điều 27
Checked Aug 2026 · Band high · Status fresh
Open primary URL
Method: figures past 2× SLA hide. See /method · /status · /changelog.
checked Aug 2026
Passport must still be valid at renewal
NĐ 219/2025/NĐ-CP Điều 27
yes
Source NĐ 219/2025/NĐ-CP Điều 27
Checked Aug 2026 · Band high · Status fresh
Open primary URL
Method: figures past 2× SLA hide. See /method · /status · /changelog.
checked Aug 2026
Processing days to reissue a permit
NĐ 219/2025/NĐ-CP Điều 23–26
3 working days
Source NĐ 219/2025/NĐ-CP Điều 23–26
Checked Aug 2026 · Band high · Status fresh
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Method: figures past 2× SLA hide. See /method · /status · /changelog.
checked Aug 2026
Reissue does not reset the permit clock
NĐ 219/2025/NĐ-CP Điều 26 — reissue term = prior term minus time already worked
yes
Source NĐ 219/2025/NĐ-CP Điều 26 — reissue term = prior term minus time already worked
Checked Aug 2026 · Band high · Status fresh
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Method: figures past 2× SLA hide. See /method · /status · /changelog.
checked Aug 2026
Job title or work form change with same employer needs a new permit
NĐ 219/2025/NĐ-CP Điều 20 khoản 2
yes
Source NĐ 219/2025/NĐ-CP Điều 20 khoản 2
Checked Aug 2026 · Band high · Status fresh
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Method: figures past 2× SLA hide. See /method · /status · /changelog.
checked Aug 2026
Minimum notice days before multi-province work
NĐ 219/2025/NĐ-CP Điều 22 khoản 5
3 days
Source NĐ 219/2025/NĐ-CP Điều 22 khoản 5
Checked Aug 2026 · Band high · Status fresh
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Method: figures past 2× SLA hide. See /method · /status · /changelog.
checked Aug 2026
Permit dies when the employment contract ends — does not wait for printed expiry
BLLĐ 45/2019 Điều 156 khoản 2 via NĐ 219/2025 Điều 30 khoản 1
yes
Source BLLĐ 45/2019 Điều 156 khoản 2 via NĐ 219/2025 Điều 30 khoản 1
Checked Aug 2026 · Band low · Status fresh
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Method: figures past 2× SLA hide. See /method · /status · /changelog.
checked Aug 2026
Labour contract term cannot exceed the work-permit term
BLLĐ 45/2019 Điều 151 khoản 2
yes
Source BLLĐ 45/2019 Điều 151 khoản 2
Checked Aug 2026 · Band low · Status fresh
Open primary URL
Method: figures past 2× SLA hide. See /method · /status · /changelog.
checked Aug 2026
Employer must justify labour need and get written approval before hiring
BLLĐ 45/2019 Điều 152 khoản 2
yes
Source BLLĐ 45/2019 Điều 152 khoản 2
Checked Aug 2026 · Band low · Status fresh
Open primary URL
Method: figures past 2× SLA hide. See /method · /status · /changelog.
checked Aug 2026
Consequence of working without a permit
BLLĐ 45/2019 Điều 153 khoản 2
forced exit or deportation
Source BLLĐ 45/2019 Điều 153 khoản 2
Checked Aug 2026 · Band low · Status fresh
Open primary URL
Method: figures past 2× SLA hide. See /method · /status · /changelog.
checked Aug 2026
Max term of exemption confirmation certificate
NĐ 219/2025/NĐ-CP Điều 10
24 months
Source NĐ 219/2025/NĐ-CP Điều 10
Checked Aug 2026 · Band high · Status fresh
Open primary URL
Method: figures past 2× SLA hide. See /method · /status · /changelog.
checked Aug 2026
Max term of one renewal of exemption confirmation
NĐ 219/2025/NĐ-CP Điều 17
24 months
Source NĐ 219/2025/NĐ-CP Điều 17
Checked Aug 2026 · Band high · Status fresh
Open primary URL
Method: figures past 2× SLA hide. See /method · /status · /changelog.
checked Aug 2026
Processing days to issue exemption confirmation
NĐ 219/2025/NĐ-CP Điều 9
5 working days
Source NĐ 219/2025/NĐ-CP Điều 9
Checked Aug 2026 · Band high · Status fresh
Open primary URL
Method: figures past 2× SLA hide. See /method · /status · /changelog.
checked Aug 2026
Days to refuse exemption confirmation in writing
NĐ 219/2025/NĐ-CP Điều 9
3 working days
Source NĐ 219/2025/NĐ-CP Điều 9
Checked Aug 2026 · Band high · Status fresh
Open primary URL
Method: figures past 2× SLA hide. See /method · /status · /changelog.
checked Aug 2026
Notify-only path: working days before start
NĐ 219/2025/NĐ-CP Điều 9 khoản 4
3 working days
Source NĐ 219/2025/NĐ-CP Điều 9 khoản 4
Checked Aug 2026 · Band high · Status fresh
Open primary URL
Method: figures past 2× SLA hide. See /method · /status · /changelog.
checked Aug 2026
A prior work permit or exemption confirmation can substitute experience proof
NĐ 219/2025/NĐ-CP Điều 18–20
yes
Source NĐ 219/2025/NĐ-CP Điều 18–20
Checked Aug 2026 · Band high · Status fresh
Open primary URL
Method: figures past 2× SLA hide. See /method · /status · /changelog.
checked Aug 2026
Revoked exemption confirmation must be reported to Immigration Department (Ministry of Public Security)
NĐ 219/2025/NĐ-CP Điều 33 khoản 2
yes
Source NĐ 219/2025/NĐ-CP Điều 33 khoản 2
Checked Aug 2026 · Band high · Status fresh
Open primary URL
Method: figures past 2× SLA hide. See /method · /status · /changelog.
checked Aug 2026
Numeric experience thresholds for the four positions are filed in facts.json
NĐ 219/2025/NĐ-CP Điều 3 — filed 2026-08-09
yes
Source NĐ 219/2025/NĐ-CP Điều 3 — filed 2026-08-09
Checked Aug 2026 · Band high · Status fresh
Open primary URL
Method: figures past 2× SLA hide. See /method · /status · /changelog.
checked Aug 2026
Điều 7 khoản 4–12 exemption limbs are fully filed in facts.json
NĐ 219/2025/NĐ-CP Điều 7 khoản 1–15 — filed 2026-08-09
yes
Source NĐ 219/2025/NĐ-CP Điều 7 khoản 1–15 — filed 2026-08-09
Checked Aug 2026 · Band high · Status fresh
Open primary URL
Method: figures past 2× SLA hide. See /method · /status · /changelog.
checked Aug 2026
Who counts as a manager for work-permit positions
NĐ 219/2025/NĐ-CP Điều 3 khoản 1
enterprise manager under Enterprise Law Art 4(24), or head/deputy head of an agency/organisation
Source NĐ 219/2025/NĐ-CP Điều 3 khoản 1
Checked Aug 2026 · Band high · Status fresh
Open primary URL
Method: figures past 2× SLA hide. See /method · /status · /changelog.
checked Aug 2026
Head of a branch, representative office, or business location counts as executive
NĐ 219/2025/NĐ-CP Điều 3 khoản 2 điểm a
yes
Source NĐ 219/2025/NĐ-CP Điều 3 khoản 2 điểm a
Checked Aug 2026 · Band high · Status fresh
Open primary URL
Method: figures past 2× SLA hide. See /method · /status · /changelog.
checked Aug 2026
Min years experience for field-head executive limb
NĐ 219/2025/NĐ-CP Điều 3 khoản 2 điểm b
3 years
Source NĐ 219/2025/NĐ-CP Điều 3 khoản 2 điểm b
Checked Aug 2026 · Band high · Status fresh
Open primary URL
Method: figures past 2× SLA hide. See /method · /status · /changelog.
checked Aug 2026
Min years experience for expert with university degree (general)
NĐ 219/2025/NĐ-CP Điều 3 khoản 3 điểm a
2 years
Source NĐ 219/2025/NĐ-CP Điều 3 khoản 3 điểm a
Checked Aug 2026 · Band high · Status fresh
Open primary URL
Method: figures past 2× SLA hide. See /method · /status · /changelog.
checked Aug 2026
Min years experience for expert in priority fields with matching degree
NĐ 219/2025/NĐ-CP Điều 3 khoản 3 điểm b
1 years
Source NĐ 219/2025/NĐ-CP Điều 3 khoản 3 điểm b
Checked Aug 2026 · Band high · Status fresh
Open primary URL
Method: figures past 2× SLA hide. See /method · /status · /changelog.
checked Aug 2026
Min years experience for technician with ≥1 year training
NĐ 219/2025/NĐ-CP Điều 3 khoản 4 điểm a
2 years
Source NĐ 219/2025/NĐ-CP Điều 3 khoản 4 điểm a
Checked Aug 2026 · Band high · Status fresh
Open primary URL
Method: figures past 2× SLA hide. See /method · /status · /changelog.
checked Aug 2026
Min training years for technician limb (a)
NĐ 219/2025/NĐ-CP Điều 3 khoản 4 điểm a
1 years
Source NĐ 219/2025/NĐ-CP Điều 3 khoản 4 điểm a
Checked Aug 2026 · Band high · Status fresh
Open primary URL
Method: figures past 2× SLA hide. See /method · /status · /changelog.
checked Aug 2026
Min years experience for technician limb without stated training requirement
NĐ 219/2025/NĐ-CP Điều 3 khoản 4 điểm b
3 years
Source NĐ 219/2025/NĐ-CP Điều 3 khoản 4 điểm b
Checked Aug 2026 · Band high · Status fresh
Open primary URL
Method: figures past 2× SLA hide. See /method · /status · /changelog.
checked Aug 2026
ODA advisory / project support under international agreement — permit exempt
NĐ 219/2025/NĐ-CP Điều 7 khoản 4
yes
Source NĐ 219/2025/NĐ-CP Điều 7 khoản 4
Checked Aug 2026 · Band high · Status fresh
Open primary URL
Method: figures past 2× SLA hide. See /method · /status · /changelog.
checked Aug 2026
Foreign journalist confirmed by Ministry of Foreign Affairs — permit exempt
NĐ 219/2025/NĐ-CP Điều 7 khoản 5
yes
Source NĐ 219/2025/NĐ-CP Điều 7 khoản 5
Checked Aug 2026 · Band high · Status fresh
Open primary URL
Method: figures past 2× SLA hide. See /method · /status · /changelog.
checked Aug 2026
Teaching/management at diplomatic/intergovernmental school or treaty body — permit exempt
NĐ 219/2025/NĐ-CP Điều 7 khoản 6
yes
Source NĐ 219/2025/NĐ-CP Điều 7 khoản 6
Checked Aug 2026 · Band high · Status fresh
Open primary URL
Method: figures past 2× SLA hide. See /method · /status · /changelog.
checked Aug 2026
Student / trainee internship (incl. VN seafarer training) — permit exempt
NĐ 219/2025/NĐ-CP Điều 7 khoản 7
yes
Source NĐ 219/2025/NĐ-CP Điều 7 khoản 7
Checked Aug 2026 · Band high · Status fresh
Open primary URL
Method: figures past 2× SLA hide. See /method · /status · /changelog.
checked Aug 2026
Family member of foreign mission staff allowed to work under treaty — permit exempt
NĐ 219/2025/NĐ-CP Điều 7 khoản 8
yes
Source NĐ 219/2025/NĐ-CP Điều 7 khoản 8
Checked Aug 2026 · Band high · Status fresh
Open primary URL
Method: figures past 2× SLA hide. See /method · /status · /changelog.
checked Aug 2026
Official-passport work for state / political / socio-political body — permit exempt
NĐ 219/2025/NĐ-CP Điều 7 khoản 9
yes
Source NĐ 219/2025/NĐ-CP Điều 7 khoản 9
Checked Aug 2026 · Band high · Status fresh
Open primary URL
Method: figures past 2× SLA hide. See /method · /status · /changelog.
checked Aug 2026
Person responsible for establishing a commercial presence — permit exempt
NĐ 219/2025/NĐ-CP Điều 7 khoản 10
yes
Source NĐ 219/2025/NĐ-CP Điều 7 khoản 10
Checked Aug 2026 · Band high · Status fresh
Open primary URL
Method: figures past 2× SLA hide. See /method · /status · /changelog.
checked Aug 2026
Unpaid volunteer under treaty with diplomatic/IO confirmation — permit exempt
NĐ 219/2025/NĐ-CP Điều 7 khoản 11
yes
Source NĐ 219/2025/NĐ-CP Điều 7 khoản 11
Checked Aug 2026 · Band high · Status fresh
Open primary URL
Method: figures past 2× SLA hide. See /method · /status · /changelog.
checked Aug 2026
Work under central/provincial international agreement — permit exempt
NĐ 219/2025/NĐ-CP Điều 7 khoản 12
yes
Source NĐ 219/2025/NĐ-CP Điều 7 khoản 12
Checked Aug 2026 · Band high · Status fresh
Open primary URL
Method: figures past 2× SLA hide. See /method · /status · /changelog.
checked Aug 2026
Intra-company transfer: prior continuous employment months required
NĐ 219/2025/NĐ-CP Điều 7 khoản 13 điểm b
12 months
Source NĐ 219/2025/NĐ-CP Điều 7 khoản 13 điểm b
Checked Aug 2026 · Band high · Status fresh
Open primary URL
Method: figures past 2× SLA hide. See /method · /status · /changelog.
checked Aug 2026
Ministry of Education & Training confirmation path — permit exempt
NĐ 219/2025/NĐ-CP Điều 7 khoản 14
yes
Source NĐ 219/2025/NĐ-CP Điều 7 khoản 14
Checked Aug 2026 · Band high · Status fresh
Open primary URL
Method: figures past 2× SLA hide. See /method · /status · /changelog.
checked Aug 2026
Days for employer to return an expired/invalid work permit to the issuer
NĐ 219/2025/NĐ-CP Điều 31 khoản 1
15 days
Source NĐ 219/2025/NĐ-CP Điều 31 khoản 1
Checked Aug 2026 · Band high · Status fresh
Open primary URL
Method: figures past 2× SLA hide. See /method · /status · /changelog.
checked Aug 2026
On administrative revoke, issuer notifies employer and Immigration Department
NĐ 219/2025/NĐ-CP Điều 31 khoản 2
yes
Source NĐ 219/2025/NĐ-CP Điều 31 khoản 2
Checked Aug 2026 · Band high · Status fresh
Open primary URL
Method: figures past 2× SLA hide. See /method · /status · /changelog.
checked Aug 2026
Days for employer to return an expired exemption confirmation
NĐ 219/2025/NĐ-CP Điều 33 khoản 1
15 days
Source NĐ 219/2025/NĐ-CP Điều 33 khoản 1
Checked Aug 2026 · Band high · Status fresh
Open primary URL
Method: figures past 2× SLA hide. See /method · /status · /changelog.
checked Aug 2026
Labour Code defines a day-count for 'living in Vietnam' marriage exemption
BLLĐ 45/2019 Điều 154 khoản 8 — 'sinh sống trên lãnh thổ Việt Nam' with no day-count or registration threshold in the Labour Code
no
Source BLLĐ 45/2019 Điều 154 khoản 8 — 'sinh sống trên lãnh thổ Việt Nam' with no day-count or registration threshold in the Labour Code
Checked Aug 2026 · Band low · Status fresh
Open primary URL
Method: figures past 2× SLA hide. See /method · /status · /changelog.
checked Aug 2026
Number of statutory work-form limbs for foreign workers
NĐ 219/2025/NĐ-CP Điều 2 khoản 1 điểm a→m
13
Source NĐ 219/2025/NĐ-CP Điều 2 khoản 1 điểm a→m
Checked Aug 2026 · Band high · Status fresh
Open primary URL
Method: figures past 2× SLA hide. See /method · /status · /changelog.
checked Aug 2026
Thirteen work forms (Điều 2.1 a–m)
NĐ 219/2025/NĐ-CP Điều 2 khoản 1 (vbpl ItemID=180273)
a employment contract; b intra-company transfer; c economic/social contracts; d contractual service supplier; đ service seller; e volunteer; g commercial-presence founder; h secondment (ex-ICT); i project/bid packages; k diplomatic-family treaty work; l board/owner capital under 3bn VND; m employment with foreign mission/org in VN
Source NĐ 219/2025/NĐ-CP Điều 2 khoản 1 (vbpl ItemID=180273)
Checked Aug 2026 · Band high · Status fresh
Open primary URL
Method: figures past 2× SLA hide. See /method · /status · /changelog.
checked Aug 2026
Board/owner under 3bn VND is a permit-required work form
NĐ 219/2025/NĐ-CP Điều 2 khoản 1 điểm l — capital under 3 billion VND is a work form that requires a permit
yes
Source NĐ 219/2025/NĐ-CP Điều 2 khoản 1 điểm l — capital under 3 billion VND is a work form that requires a permit
Checked Aug 2026 · Band high · Status fresh
Open primary URL
Method: figures past 2× SLA hide. See /method · /status · /changelog.
checked Aug 2026
Forms a and m require a written employment contract before start
NĐ 219/2025/NĐ-CP Điều 22 khoản 4 — forms a and m must sign written employment contract before planned start
yes
Source NĐ 219/2025/NĐ-CP Điều 22 khoản 4 — forms a and m must sign written employment contract before planned start
Checked Aug 2026 · Band high · Status fresh
Open primary URL
Method: figures past 2× SLA hide. See /method · /status · /changelog.
checked Aug 2026
A single national work-permit fee schedule is filed
NĐ 219 has no fee amounts. Work-permit fees are set by provincial HĐND under TT 85/2019/TT-BTC (as amended by TT 106/2021) — not a single national schedule
no
Source NĐ 219 has no fee amounts. Work-permit fees are set by provincial HĐND under TT 85/2019/TT-BTC (as amended by TT 106/2021) — not a single national schedule
Checked Aug 2026 · Band low · Status fresh
Open primary URL
Method: figures past 2× SLA hide. See /method · /status · /changelog.
checked Aug 2026
Work-permit fees are set at provincial council level
Practice under Luật Phí và lệ phí + TT 85/2019/TT-BTC provincial competence (illustrated by provincial NQ e.g. Đồng Nai 43/2025) — amounts vary by province
yes
Source Practice under Luật Phí và lệ phí + TT 85/2019/TT-BTC provincial competence (illustrated by provincial NQ e.g. Đồng Nai 43/2025) — amounts vary by province
Checked Aug 2026 · Band med · Status fresh
Method: figures past 2× SLA hide. See /method · /status · /changelog.
checked Aug 2026
All thirteen Điều 2 work forms are filed
NĐ 219/2025/NĐ-CP Điều 2 khoản 1 a–m filed 2026-08-09 (closes N10)
yes
Source NĐ 219/2025/NĐ-CP Điều 2 khoản 1 a–m filed 2026-08-09 (closes N10)
Checked Aug 2026 · Band low · Status fresh
Open primary URL
Method: figures past 2× SLA hide. See /method · /status · /changelog.
checked Aug 2026

Common questions

Can a foreign doctor work in Vietnam with only a work permit?

No. Clinical practice needs a Vietnam medical practice licence — or Ministry of Health recognition of a foreign licence — and, separately, lawful labour paper. One does not replace the other.

Where do foreign clinicians actually work?

International and private hospitals, specialty clinics, and some teaching/research posts. Employers sponsor labour paper; the Ministry of Health stack governs practice licensing.

Can a foreign medical licence replace the Vietnam licence?

Not by itself. A recognition path exists at the Ministry of Health. A recognised licence skips Vietnam practice hours and the competency exam. Humanitarian / tech-transfer batches can skip standing-licence limbs — that is not a standing job.

Clinical work — practice licence and labour paper are two gates

Source BLLĐ / NĐ 219 — labour permission (permit or exemption) is a separate system from immigration status

Checked Aug 2026 · Band low · Status fresh

Open primary URL

Method: figures past 2× SLA hide. See /method · /status · /changelog.

What people actually do

Clinicians appear in FV, Vinmec, and other international-facing facilities, plus specialty clinics and teaching posts. Default language of practice is Vietnamese (

yes

Source Luật 15/2023 Điều 21 khoản 1

Checked Aug 2026 · Band low · Status fresh

Open primary URL

Method: figures past 2× SLA hide. See /method · /status · /changelog.

); listed exceptions exist (

yes

Source Luật 15/2023 Điều 21 khoản 2–3

Checked Aug 2026 · Band low · Status fresh

Open primary URL

Method: figures past 2× SLA hide. See /method · /status · /changelog.

). Humanitarian / tech-transfer batches can skip standing-licence limbs (

yes

Source Luật 15/2023 Điều 19 khoản 3

Checked Aug 2026 · Band low · Status fresh

Open primary URL

Method: figures past 2× SLA hide. See /method · /status · /changelog.

) — that is not a standing job.

Dual gates

1. Medical practice licence
Clinical practice requires a valid licence (
yes
Source Luật 15/2023/QH15 Điều 19 khoản 1 điểm a (VBHN 26/VBHN-VPQH; nguon/LUAT_15_2023_KCB_PRACTICE.md)
Checked Aug 2026 · Band low · Status fresh
Open primary URL
Method: figures past 2× SLA hide. See /method · /status · /changelog.
). One licence per person, nationwide (
yes
Source Luật 15/2023 Điều 27 khoản 1
Checked Aug 2026 · Band low · Status fresh
Open primary URL
Method: figures past 2× SLA hide. See /method · /status · /changelog.
), term
5 years
Source Luật 15/2023 Điều 27 khoản 2
Checked Aug 2026 · Band low · Status fresh
Open primary URL
Method: figures past 2× SLA hide. See /method · /status · /changelog.
. Usual issuer:
provincial health authority (except facilities under MoH, Ministry of Defence, or Ministry of Public Security)
Source Luật 15/2023 Điều 28 khoản 1 điểm d
Checked Aug 2026 · Band low · Status fresh
Open primary URL
Method: figures past 2× SLA hide. See /method · /status · /changelog.
.
Foreign licences have a recognition path (
yes
Source Luật 15/2023 Điều 29 khoản 1
Checked Aug 2026 · Band low · Status fresh
Open primary URL
Method: figures past 2× SLA hide. See /method · /status · /changelog.
) at the
Ministry of Health
Source Luật 15/2023 Điều 29 khoản 2 điểm a
Checked Aug 2026 · Band low · Status fresh
Open primary URL
Method: figures past 2× SLA hide. See /method · /status · /changelog.
, reply clock
30 days
Source Luật 15/2023 Điều 29 khoản 2 điểm b; NĐ 96/2023 Điều 37
Checked Aug 2026 · Band med · Status fresh
Open primary URL
Method: figures past 2× SLA hide. See /method · /status · /changelog.
. Recognised licences skip Vietnam practice hours and the competency exam (
yes
Source Luật 15/2023 Điều 29 khoản 4
Checked Aug 2026 · Band low · Status fresh
Open primary URL
Method: figures past 2× SLA hide. See /method · /status · /changelog.
). New-licence clock:
30 days
Source Luật 15/2023 Điều 30 khoản 5 điểm b
Checked Aug 2026 · Band med · Status fresh
Open primary URL
Method: figures past 2× SLA hide. See /method · /status · /changelog.
. If foreign documents need verification, that clock runs from the verification result (
30 days
Source Luật 15/2023 Điều 30 khoản 5 điểm c
Checked Aug 2026 · Band med · Status fresh
Open primary URL
Method: figures past 2× SLA hide. See /method · /status · /changelog.
). Exam fees and Vietnamese-language thresholds are not filed.
2. Work permit (or filed exemption)
Foreign workers generally need a permit (
yes
Source Bộ luật Lao động 45/2019/QH14 Điều 153 khoản 2
Checked Aug 2026 · Band low · Status fresh
Open primary URL
Method: figures past 2× SLA hide. See /method · /status · /changelog.
). Positions:
manager, executive, expert, technician
Source BLLĐ 45/2019 Điều 152 khoản 1; NĐ 219/2025/NĐ-CP Điều 3
Checked Aug 2026 · Band low · Status fresh
Open primary URL
Method: figures past 2× SLA hide. See /method · /status · /changelog.
. Expert limbs:
2 years
Source NĐ 219/2025/NĐ-CP Điều 3 khoản 3 điểm a
Checked Aug 2026 · Band high · Status fresh
Open primary URL
Method: figures past 2× SLA hide. See /method · /status · /changelog.
years matching experience. Labour paper does not replace the practice licence.

Stay usually LĐ, TRC capped at

2 years

Source Luật Nhập cảnh Điều 38 khoản 5

Checked Aug 2026 · Band low · Status fresh

Open primary URL

Method: figures past 2× SLA hide. See /method · /status · /changelog.

. Consequence without lawful labour:

forced exit or deportation

Source BLLĐ 45/2019 Điều 153 khoản 2

Checked Aug 2026 · Band low · Status fresh

Open primary URL

Method: figures past 2× SLA hide. See /method · /status · /changelog.

Tax and life

Resident worldwide (

yes

Source Luật 109/2025/QH15 Điều 2 khoản 1; NĐ 253/2026/NĐ-CP Điều 6 khoản 2 điểm a

Checked Aug 2026 · Band low · Status fresh

Open primary URL

Method: figures past 2× SLA hide. See /method · /status · /changelog.

). Non-resident employment flat

20%

Source Luật 109/2025/QH15 Điều 21; NĐ 253/2026/NĐ-CP Điều 64 khoản 1

Checked Aug 2026 · Band low · Status fresh

Open primary URL

Method: figures past 2× SLA hide. See /method · /status · /changelog.

. Personal health cover for your family is a different product from your right to practice — see health insurance.

Dead ends

Tourist stamp + clinic shifts.
Home-country medical licence alone as Vietnam practice rights.
Assuming a hospital job offer skips the Ministry of Health gate.

Open the next door

Earn hubAll clusters Work permitLabour gate Health insurancePersonal cover, not practice Work purposeLabour → stay → tax

Evidence and sources14 dated facts for Vietnam medical practice licence (clinical)

The readable briefing above uses these cells. Open a source only when you need to verify a number, date, or legal gate.

Clinical practice in Vietnam requires a valid practice licence
Luật 15/2023/QH15 Điều 19 khoản 1 điểm a (VBHN 26/VBHN-VPQH; nguon/LUAT_15_2023_KCB_PRACTICE.md)
yes
Source Luật 15/2023/QH15 Điều 19 khoản 1 điểm a (VBHN 26/VBHN-VPQH; nguon/LUAT_15_2023_KCB_PRACTICE.md)
Checked Aug 2026 · Band low · Status fresh
Open primary URL
Method: figures past 2× SLA hide. See /method · /status · /changelog.
checked Aug 2026
Professional titles that require a practice licence
Luật 15/2023 Điều 26 khoản 1
doctor; assistant doctor; nurse; midwife; medical technician; clinical nutritionist; out-of-hospital emergency practitioner; clinical psychologist; traditional practitioner; holder of a family remedy or method
Source Luật 15/2023 Điều 26 khoản 1
Checked Aug 2026 · Band low · Status fresh
Open primary URL
Method: figures past 2× SLA hide. See /method · /status · /changelog.
checked Aug 2026
Practice-licence term
Luật 15/2023 Điều 27 khoản 2
5 years
Source Luật 15/2023 Điều 27 khoản 2
Checked Aug 2026 · Band low · Status fresh
Open primary URL
Method: figures past 2× SLA hide. See /method · /status · /changelog.
checked Aug 2026
One licence per person, valid nationwide
Luật 15/2023 Điều 27 khoản 1
yes
Source Luật 15/2023 Điều 27 khoản 1
Checked Aug 2026 · Band low · Status fresh
Open primary URL
Method: figures past 2× SLA hide. See /method · /status · /changelog.
checked Aug 2026
Usual issuing authority for private / provincial facilities
Luật 15/2023 Điều 28 khoản 1 điểm d
provincial health authority (except facilities under MoH, Ministry of Defence, or Ministry of Public Security)
Source Luật 15/2023 Điều 28 khoản 1 điểm d
Checked Aug 2026 · Band low · Status fresh
Open primary URL
Method: figures past 2× SLA hide. See /method · /status · /changelog.
checked Aug 2026
Foreign practice licences can be recognised (not automatic)
Luật 15/2023 Điều 29 khoản 1
yes
Source Luật 15/2023 Điều 29 khoản 1
Checked Aug 2026 · Band low · Status fresh
Open primary URL
Method: figures past 2× SLA hide. See /method · /status · /changelog.
checked Aug 2026
Recognition dossier is filed with the Ministry of Health
Luật 15/2023 Điều 29 khoản 2 điểm a
Ministry of Health
Source Luật 15/2023 Điều 29 khoản 2 điểm a
Checked Aug 2026 · Band low · Status fresh
Open primary URL
Method: figures past 2× SLA hide. See /method · /status · /changelog.
checked Aug 2026
MoH must reply on recognition within this many days of receiving the dossier
Luật 15/2023 Điều 29 khoản 2 điểm b; NĐ 96/2023 Điều 37
30 days
Source Luật 15/2023 Điều 29 khoản 2 điểm b; NĐ 96/2023 Điều 37
Checked Aug 2026 · Band med · Status fresh
Open primary URL
Method: figures past 2× SLA hide. See /method · /status · /changelog.
checked Aug 2026
Recognised foreign licence skips Vietnam clinical practice hours and competency exam
Luật 15/2023 Điều 29 khoản 4
yes
Source Luật 15/2023 Điều 29 khoản 4
Checked Aug 2026 · Band low · Status fresh
Open primary URL
Method: figures past 2× SLA hide. See /method · /status · /changelog.
checked Aug 2026
Default language of clinical practice is Vietnamese
Luật 15/2023 Điều 21 khoản 1
yes
Source Luật 15/2023 Điều 21 khoản 1
Checked Aug 2026 · Band low · Status fresh
Open primary URL
Method: figures past 2× SLA hide. See /method · /status · /changelog.
checked Aug 2026
Listed exceptions allow another language; some cases need an interpreter
Luật 15/2023 Điều 21 khoản 2–3
yes
Source Luật 15/2023 Điều 21 khoản 2–3
Checked Aug 2026 · Band low · Status fresh
Open primary URL
Method: figures past 2× SLA hide. See /method · /status · /changelog.
checked Aug 2026
New licence decision within this many days of a complete dossier
Luật 15/2023 Điều 30 khoản 5 điểm b
30 days
Source Luật 15/2023 Điều 30 khoản 5 điểm b
Checked Aug 2026 · Band med · Status fresh
Open primary URL
Method: figures past 2× SLA hide. See /method · /status · /changelog.
checked Aug 2026
Humanitarian / tech-transfer batches can skip the standing licence + registration limbs
Luật 15/2023 Điều 19 khoản 3
yes
Source Luật 15/2023 Điều 19 khoản 3
Checked Aug 2026 · Band low · Status fresh
Open primary URL
Method: figures past 2× SLA hide. See /method · /status · /changelog.
checked Aug 2026
When foreign documents need verification, the new-licence clock runs from the verification result
Luật 15/2023 Điều 30 khoản 5 điểm c
30 days
Source Luật 15/2023 Điều 30 khoản 5 điểm c
Checked Aug 2026 · Band med · Status fresh
Open primary URL
Method: figures past 2× SLA hide. See /method · /status · /changelog.
checked Aug 2026

Evidence and sources76 dated facts for Vietnam work permit for foreigners

The readable briefing above uses these cells. Open a source only when you need to verify a number, date, or legal gate.

Foreign workers generally need a work permit
Bộ luật Lao động 45/2019/QH14 Điều 153 khoản 2
yes
Source Bộ luật Lao động 45/2019/QH14 Điều 153 khoản 2
Checked Aug 2026 · Band low · Status fresh
Open primary URL
Method: figures past 2× SLA hide. See /method · /status · /changelog.
checked Aug 2026
Positions for which foreigners may be hired
BLLĐ 45/2019 Điều 152 khoản 1; NĐ 219/2025/NĐ-CP Điều 3
manager, executive, expert, technician
Source BLLĐ 45/2019 Điều 152 khoản 1; NĐ 219/2025/NĐ-CP Điều 3
Checked Aug 2026 · Band low · Status fresh
Open primary URL
Method: figures past 2× SLA hide. See /method · /status · /changelog.
checked Aug 2026
Maximum work-permit term
BLLĐ 45/2019 Điều 155; NĐ 219/2025/NĐ-CP Điều 21
24 months
Source BLLĐ 45/2019 Điều 155; NĐ 219/2025/NĐ-CP Điều 21
Checked Aug 2026 · Band low · Status fresh
Open primary URL
Method: figures past 2× SLA hide. See /method · /status · /changelog.
checked Aug 2026
Maximum term of a one-time renewal
BLLĐ 45/2019 Điều 155; NĐ 219/2025/NĐ-CP Điều 29
24 months
Source BLLĐ 45/2019 Điều 155; NĐ 219/2025/NĐ-CP Điều 29
Checked Aug 2026 · Band low · Status fresh
Open primary URL
Method: figures past 2× SLA hide. See /method · /status · /changelog.
checked Aug 2026
Married to a Vietnamese citizen and living in Vietnam — permit exempt
BLLĐ 45/2019 Điều 154 khoản 8 (via NĐ 219/2025 Điều 7 khoản 1)
yes
Source BLLĐ 45/2019 Điều 154 khoản 8 (via NĐ 219/2025 Điều 7 khoản 1)
Checked Aug 2026 · Band low · Status fresh
Open primary URL
Method: figures past 2× SLA hide. See /method · /status · /changelog.
checked Aug 2026
Capital contribution threshold for owner/board exemption
NĐ 219/2025/NĐ-CP Điều 7 khoản 2–3
3,000,000,000 VND
Source NĐ 219/2025/NĐ-CP Điều 7 khoản 2–3
Checked Aug 2026 · Band high · Status fresh
Open primary URL
Method: figures past 2× SLA hide. See /method · /status · /changelog.
checked Aug 2026
Under this many work days in a calendar year — permit exempt
NĐ 219/2025/NĐ-CP Điều 7 khoản 13 điểm a
90 days
Source NĐ 219/2025/NĐ-CP Điều 7 khoản 13 điểm a
Checked Aug 2026 · Band high · Status fresh
Open primary URL
Method: figures past 2× SLA hide. See /method · /status · /changelog.
checked Aug 2026
Under 3 months to sell services — permit exempt
BLLĐ 45/2019 Điều 154 khoản 4
yes
Source BLLĐ 45/2019 Điều 154 khoản 4
Checked Aug 2026 · Band low · Status fresh
Open primary URL
Method: figures past 2× SLA hide. See /method · /status · /changelog.
checked Aug 2026
NĐ 219/2025 effective date
NĐ 219/2025/NĐ-CP Điều 35 khoản 1
2025-08-07
Source NĐ 219/2025/NĐ-CP Điều 35 khoản 1
Checked Aug 2026 · Band high · Status fresh
Open primary URL
Method: figures past 2× SLA hide. See /method · /status · /changelog.
checked Aug 2026
Issuing authority
NĐ 219/2025/NĐ-CP Điều 4
provincial People's Committee where the foreigner will work
Source NĐ 219/2025/NĐ-CP Điều 4
Checked Aug 2026 · Band high · Status fresh
Open primary URL
Method: figures past 2× SLA hide. See /method · /status · /changelog.
checked Aug 2026
Work permit may be renewed this many times
BLLĐ 45/2019 Điều 155; NĐ 219/2025 Điều 29
1
Source BLLĐ 45/2019 Điều 155; NĐ 219/2025 Điều 29
Checked Aug 2026 · Band low · Status fresh
Open primary URL
Method: figures past 2× SLA hide. See /method · /status · /changelog.
checked Aug 2026
One permit cycle ceiling before a fresh issue is required
BLLĐ 45/2019 Điều 155 — 24 + one renewal 24, then new issue
48 months
Source BLLĐ 45/2019 Điều 155 — 24 + one renewal 24, then new issue
Checked Aug 2026 · Band low · Status fresh
Open primary URL
Method: figures past 2× SLA hide. See /method · /status · /changelog.
checked Aug 2026
Under 3 months for complex tech incident — permit exempt
BLLĐ 45/2019 Điều 154 khoản 5 (via NĐ 219 Điều 7 khoản 1)
yes
Source BLLĐ 45/2019 Điều 154 khoản 5 (via NĐ 219 Điều 7 khoản 1)
Checked Aug 2026 · Band low · Status fresh
Open primary URL
Method: figures past 2× SLA hide. See /method · /status · /changelog.
checked Aug 2026
Licensed foreign lawyer in Vietnam — permit exempt
BLLĐ 45/2019 Điều 154 khoản 6 (via NĐ 219 Điều 7 khoản 1)
yes
Source BLLĐ 45/2019 Điều 154 khoản 6 (via NĐ 219 Điều 7 khoản 1)
Checked Aug 2026 · Band low · Status fresh
Open primary URL
Method: figures past 2× SLA hide. See /method · /status · /changelog.
checked Aug 2026
Head of foreign NGO / international org project or rep office — permit exempt
BLLĐ 45/2019 Điều 154 khoản 3 (via NĐ 219 Điều 7 khoản 1)
yes
Source BLLĐ 45/2019 Điều 154 khoản 3 (via NĐ 219 Điều 7 khoản 1)
Checked Aug 2026 · Band low · Status fresh
Open primary URL
Method: figures past 2× SLA hide. See /method · /status · /changelog.
checked Aug 2026
Cases under an international treaty Vietnam is party to — permit exempt
BLLĐ 45/2019 Điều 154 khoản 7 (via NĐ 219 Điều 7 khoản 1)
yes
Source BLLĐ 45/2019 Điều 154 khoản 7 (via NĐ 219 Điều 7 khoản 1)
Checked Aug 2026 · Band low · Status fresh
Open primary URL
Method: figures past 2× SLA hide. See /method · /status · /changelog.
checked Aug 2026
Priority-field confirmation exemption (filed categories)
NĐ 219/2025/NĐ-CP Điều 7 khoản 14–15
finance; science & technology; innovation; national digital transformation — with ministry/provincial confirmation
Source NĐ 219/2025/NĐ-CP Điều 7 khoản 14–15
Checked Aug 2026 · Band high · Status fresh
Open primary URL
Method: figures past 2× SLA hide. See /method · /status · /changelog.
checked Aug 2026
Owner/board with capital below the exemption threshold still needs a permit
NĐ 219/2025/NĐ-CP Điều 2 khoản 1 điểm l
yes
Source NĐ 219/2025/NĐ-CP Điều 2 khoản 1 điểm l
Checked Aug 2026 · Band high · Status fresh
Open primary URL
Method: figures past 2× SLA hide. See /method · /status · /changelog.
checked Aug 2026
Authority when work spans multiple provinces
NĐ 219/2025/NĐ-CP Điều 4
People's Committee where the employer's head office is
Source NĐ 219/2025/NĐ-CP Điều 4
Checked Aug 2026 · Band high · Status fresh
Open primary URL
Method: figures past 2× SLA hide. See /method · /status · /changelog.
checked Aug 2026
Filing channel for work-permit dossiers
NĐ 219/2025/NĐ-CP Điều 6, Điều 22
National Public Service Portal; Public Administration Service Centre
Source NĐ 219/2025/NĐ-CP Điều 6, Điều 22
Checked Aug 2026 · Band high · Status fresh
Open primary URL
Method: figures past 2× SLA hide. See /method · /status · /changelog.
checked Aug 2026
Criminal-record certificate is bundled in the same dossier
NĐ 219/2025/NĐ-CP Điều 6
yes
Source NĐ 219/2025/NĐ-CP Điều 6
Checked Aug 2026 · Band high · Status fresh
Open primary URL
Method: figures past 2× SLA hide. See /method · /status · /changelog.
checked Aug 2026
Earliest days before start date to file a new permit
NĐ 219/2025/NĐ-CP Điều 22
10 days
Source NĐ 219/2025/NĐ-CP Điều 22
Checked Aug 2026 · Band high · Status fresh
Open primary URL
Method: figures past 2× SLA hide. See /method · /status · /changelog.
checked Aug 2026
Latest days before start date to file a new permit
NĐ 219/2025/NĐ-CP Điều 22
60 days
Source NĐ 219/2025/NĐ-CP Điều 22
Checked Aug 2026 · Band high · Status fresh
Open primary URL
Method: figures past 2× SLA hide. See /method · /status · /changelog.
checked Aug 2026
Statutory processing days to issue a permit
NĐ 219/2025/NĐ-CP Điều 22 (Mẫu số 04)
10 working days
Source NĐ 219/2025/NĐ-CP Điều 22 (Mẫu số 04)
Checked Aug 2026 · Band high · Status fresh
Open primary URL
Method: figures past 2× SLA hide. See /method · /status · /changelog.
checked Aug 2026
Statutory days to refuse in writing
NĐ 219/2025/NĐ-CP Điều 22
3 working days
Source NĐ 219/2025/NĐ-CP Điều 22
Checked Aug 2026 · Band high · Status fresh
Open primary URL
Method: figures past 2× SLA hide. See /method · /status · /changelog.
checked Aug 2026
Earliest days before expiry to file renewal
NĐ 219/2025/NĐ-CP Điều 28
10 days
Source NĐ 219/2025/NĐ-CP Điều 28
Checked Aug 2026 · Band high · Status fresh
Open primary URL
Method: figures past 2× SLA hide. See /method · /status · /changelog.
checked Aug 2026
Latest days before expiry to file renewal
NĐ 219/2025/NĐ-CP Điều 28
45 days
Source NĐ 219/2025/NĐ-CP Điều 28
Checked Aug 2026 · Band high · Status fresh
Open primary URL
Method: figures past 2× SLA hide. See /method · /status · /changelog.
checked Aug 2026
Max age of health certificate for renewal
NĐ 219/2025/NĐ-CP Điều 27
12 months
Source NĐ 219/2025/NĐ-CP Điều 27
Checked Aug 2026 · Band high · Status fresh
Open primary URL
Method: figures past 2× SLA hide. See /method · /status · /changelog.
checked Aug 2026
Passport must still be valid at renewal
NĐ 219/2025/NĐ-CP Điều 27
yes
Source NĐ 219/2025/NĐ-CP Điều 27
Checked Aug 2026 · Band high · Status fresh
Open primary URL
Method: figures past 2× SLA hide. See /method · /status · /changelog.
checked Aug 2026
Processing days to reissue a permit
NĐ 219/2025/NĐ-CP Điều 23–26
3 working days
Source NĐ 219/2025/NĐ-CP Điều 23–26
Checked Aug 2026 · Band high · Status fresh
Open primary URL
Method: figures past 2× SLA hide. See /method · /status · /changelog.
checked Aug 2026
Reissue does not reset the permit clock
NĐ 219/2025/NĐ-CP Điều 26 — reissue term = prior term minus time already worked
yes
Source NĐ 219/2025/NĐ-CP Điều 26 — reissue term = prior term minus time already worked
Checked Aug 2026 · Band high · Status fresh
Open primary URL
Method: figures past 2× SLA hide. See /method · /status · /changelog.
checked Aug 2026
Job title or work form change with same employer needs a new permit
NĐ 219/2025/NĐ-CP Điều 20 khoản 2
yes
Source NĐ 219/2025/NĐ-CP Điều 20 khoản 2
Checked Aug 2026 · Band high · Status fresh
Open primary URL
Method: figures past 2× SLA hide. See /method · /status · /changelog.
checked Aug 2026
Minimum notice days before multi-province work
NĐ 219/2025/NĐ-CP Điều 22 khoản 5
3 days
Source NĐ 219/2025/NĐ-CP Điều 22 khoản 5
Checked Aug 2026 · Band high · Status fresh
Open primary URL
Method: figures past 2× SLA hide. See /method · /status · /changelog.
checked Aug 2026
Permit dies when the employment contract ends — does not wait for printed expiry
BLLĐ 45/2019 Điều 156 khoản 2 via NĐ 219/2025 Điều 30 khoản 1
yes
Source BLLĐ 45/2019 Điều 156 khoản 2 via NĐ 219/2025 Điều 30 khoản 1
Checked Aug 2026 · Band low · Status fresh
Open primary URL
Method: figures past 2× SLA hide. See /method · /status · /changelog.
checked Aug 2026
Labour contract term cannot exceed the work-permit term
BLLĐ 45/2019 Điều 151 khoản 2
yes
Source BLLĐ 45/2019 Điều 151 khoản 2
Checked Aug 2026 · Band low · Status fresh
Open primary URL
Method: figures past 2× SLA hide. See /method · /status · /changelog.
checked Aug 2026
Employer must justify labour need and get written approval before hiring
BLLĐ 45/2019 Điều 152 khoản 2
yes
Source BLLĐ 45/2019 Điều 152 khoản 2
Checked Aug 2026 · Band low · Status fresh
Open primary URL
Method: figures past 2× SLA hide. See /method · /status · /changelog.
checked Aug 2026
Consequence of working without a permit
BLLĐ 45/2019 Điều 153 khoản 2
forced exit or deportation
Source BLLĐ 45/2019 Điều 153 khoản 2
Checked Aug 2026 · Band low · Status fresh
Open primary URL
Method: figures past 2× SLA hide. See /method · /status · /changelog.
checked Aug 2026
Max term of exemption confirmation certificate
NĐ 219/2025/NĐ-CP Điều 10
24 months
Source NĐ 219/2025/NĐ-CP Điều 10
Checked Aug 2026 · Band high · Status fresh
Open primary URL
Method: figures past 2× SLA hide. See /method · /status · /changelog.
checked Aug 2026
Max term of one renewal of exemption confirmation
NĐ 219/2025/NĐ-CP Điều 17
24 months
Source NĐ 219/2025/NĐ-CP Điều 17
Checked Aug 2026 · Band high · Status fresh
Open primary URL
Method: figures past 2× SLA hide. See /method · /status · /changelog.
checked Aug 2026
Processing days to issue exemption confirmation
NĐ 219/2025/NĐ-CP Điều 9
5 working days
Source NĐ 219/2025/NĐ-CP Điều 9
Checked Aug 2026 · Band high · Status fresh
Open primary URL
Method: figures past 2× SLA hide. See /method · /status · /changelog.
checked Aug 2026
Days to refuse exemption confirmation in writing
NĐ 219/2025/NĐ-CP Điều 9
3 working days
Source NĐ 219/2025/NĐ-CP Điều 9
Checked Aug 2026 · Band high · Status fresh
Open primary URL
Method: figures past 2× SLA hide. See /method · /status · /changelog.
checked Aug 2026
Notify-only path: working days before start
NĐ 219/2025/NĐ-CP Điều 9 khoản 4
3 working days
Source NĐ 219/2025/NĐ-CP Điều 9 khoản 4
Checked Aug 2026 · Band high · Status fresh
Open primary URL
Method: figures past 2× SLA hide. See /method · /status · /changelog.
checked Aug 2026
A prior work permit or exemption confirmation can substitute experience proof
NĐ 219/2025/NĐ-CP Điều 18–20
yes
Source NĐ 219/2025/NĐ-CP Điều 18–20
Checked Aug 2026 · Band high · Status fresh
Open primary URL
Method: figures past 2× SLA hide. See /method · /status · /changelog.
checked Aug 2026
Revoked exemption confirmation must be reported to Immigration Department (Ministry of Public Security)
NĐ 219/2025/NĐ-CP Điều 33 khoản 2
yes
Source NĐ 219/2025/NĐ-CP Điều 33 khoản 2
Checked Aug 2026 · Band high · Status fresh
Open primary URL
Method: figures past 2× SLA hide. See /method · /status · /changelog.
checked Aug 2026
Numeric experience thresholds for the four positions are filed in facts.json
NĐ 219/2025/NĐ-CP Điều 3 — filed 2026-08-09
yes
Source NĐ 219/2025/NĐ-CP Điều 3 — filed 2026-08-09
Checked Aug 2026 · Band high · Status fresh
Open primary URL
Method: figures past 2× SLA hide. See /method · /status · /changelog.
checked Aug 2026
Điều 7 khoản 4–12 exemption limbs are fully filed in facts.json
NĐ 219/2025/NĐ-CP Điều 7 khoản 1–15 — filed 2026-08-09
yes
Source NĐ 219/2025/NĐ-CP Điều 7 khoản 1–15 — filed 2026-08-09
Checked Aug 2026 · Band high · Status fresh
Open primary URL
Method: figures past 2× SLA hide. See /method · /status · /changelog.
checked Aug 2026
Who counts as a manager for work-permit positions
NĐ 219/2025/NĐ-CP Điều 3 khoản 1
enterprise manager under Enterprise Law Art 4(24), or head/deputy head of an agency/organisation
Source NĐ 219/2025/NĐ-CP Điều 3 khoản 1
Checked Aug 2026 · Band high · Status fresh
Open primary URL
Method: figures past 2× SLA hide. See /method · /status · /changelog.
checked Aug 2026
Head of a branch, representative office, or business location counts as executive
NĐ 219/2025/NĐ-CP Điều 3 khoản 2 điểm a
yes
Source NĐ 219/2025/NĐ-CP Điều 3 khoản 2 điểm a
Checked Aug 2026 · Band high · Status fresh
Open primary URL
Method: figures past 2× SLA hide. See /method · /status · /changelog.
checked Aug 2026
Min years experience for field-head executive limb
NĐ 219/2025/NĐ-CP Điều 3 khoản 2 điểm b
3 years
Source NĐ 219/2025/NĐ-CP Điều 3 khoản 2 điểm b
Checked Aug 2026 · Band high · Status fresh
Open primary URL
Method: figures past 2× SLA hide. See /method · /status · /changelog.
checked Aug 2026
Min years experience for expert with university degree (general)
NĐ 219/2025/NĐ-CP Điều 3 khoản 3 điểm a
2 years
Source NĐ 219/2025/NĐ-CP Điều 3 khoản 3 điểm a
Checked Aug 2026 · Band high · Status fresh
Open primary URL
Method: figures past 2× SLA hide. See /method · /status · /changelog.
checked Aug 2026
Min years experience for expert in priority fields with matching degree
NĐ 219/2025/NĐ-CP Điều 3 khoản 3 điểm b
1 years
Source NĐ 219/2025/NĐ-CP Điều 3 khoản 3 điểm b
Checked Aug 2026 · Band high · Status fresh
Open primary URL
Method: figures past 2× SLA hide. See /method · /status · /changelog.
checked Aug 2026
Min years experience for technician with ≥1 year training
NĐ 219/2025/NĐ-CP Điều 3 khoản 4 điểm a
2 years
Source NĐ 219/2025/NĐ-CP Điều 3 khoản 4 điểm a
Checked Aug 2026 · Band high · Status fresh
Open primary URL
Method: figures past 2× SLA hide. See /method · /status · /changelog.
checked Aug 2026
Min training years for technician limb (a)
NĐ 219/2025/NĐ-CP Điều 3 khoản 4 điểm a
1 years
Source NĐ 219/2025/NĐ-CP Điều 3 khoản 4 điểm a
Checked Aug 2026 · Band high · Status fresh
Open primary URL
Method: figures past 2× SLA hide. See /method · /status · /changelog.
checked Aug 2026
Min years experience for technician limb without stated training requirement
NĐ 219/2025/NĐ-CP Điều 3 khoản 4 điểm b
3 years
Source NĐ 219/2025/NĐ-CP Điều 3 khoản 4 điểm b
Checked Aug 2026 · Band high · Status fresh
Open primary URL
Method: figures past 2× SLA hide. See /method · /status · /changelog.
checked Aug 2026
ODA advisory / project support under international agreement — permit exempt
NĐ 219/2025/NĐ-CP Điều 7 khoản 4
yes
Source NĐ 219/2025/NĐ-CP Điều 7 khoản 4
Checked Aug 2026 · Band high · Status fresh
Open primary URL
Method: figures past 2× SLA hide. See /method · /status · /changelog.
checked Aug 2026
Foreign journalist confirmed by Ministry of Foreign Affairs — permit exempt
NĐ 219/2025/NĐ-CP Điều 7 khoản 5
yes
Source NĐ 219/2025/NĐ-CP Điều 7 khoản 5
Checked Aug 2026 · Band high · Status fresh
Open primary URL
Method: figures past 2× SLA hide. See /method · /status · /changelog.
checked Aug 2026
Teaching/management at diplomatic/intergovernmental school or treaty body — permit exempt
NĐ 219/2025/NĐ-CP Điều 7 khoản 6
yes
Source NĐ 219/2025/NĐ-CP Điều 7 khoản 6
Checked Aug 2026 · Band high · Status fresh
Open primary URL
Method: figures past 2× SLA hide. See /method · /status · /changelog.
checked Aug 2026
Student / trainee internship (incl. VN seafarer training) — permit exempt
NĐ 219/2025/NĐ-CP Điều 7 khoản 7
yes
Source NĐ 219/2025/NĐ-CP Điều 7 khoản 7
Checked Aug 2026 · Band high · Status fresh
Open primary URL
Method: figures past 2× SLA hide. See /method · /status · /changelog.
checked Aug 2026
Family member of foreign mission staff allowed to work under treaty — permit exempt
NĐ 219/2025/NĐ-CP Điều 7 khoản 8
yes
Source NĐ 219/2025/NĐ-CP Điều 7 khoản 8
Checked Aug 2026 · Band high · Status fresh
Open primary URL
Method: figures past 2× SLA hide. See /method · /status · /changelog.
checked Aug 2026
Official-passport work for state / political / socio-political body — permit exempt
NĐ 219/2025/NĐ-CP Điều 7 khoản 9
yes
Source NĐ 219/2025/NĐ-CP Điều 7 khoản 9
Checked Aug 2026 · Band high · Status fresh
Open primary URL
Method: figures past 2× SLA hide. See /method · /status · /changelog.
checked Aug 2026
Person responsible for establishing a commercial presence — permit exempt
NĐ 219/2025/NĐ-CP Điều 7 khoản 10
yes
Source NĐ 219/2025/NĐ-CP Điều 7 khoản 10
Checked Aug 2026 · Band high · Status fresh
Open primary URL
Method: figures past 2× SLA hide. See /method · /status · /changelog.
checked Aug 2026
Unpaid volunteer under treaty with diplomatic/IO confirmation — permit exempt
NĐ 219/2025/NĐ-CP Điều 7 khoản 11
yes
Source NĐ 219/2025/NĐ-CP Điều 7 khoản 11
Checked Aug 2026 · Band high · Status fresh
Open primary URL
Method: figures past 2× SLA hide. See /method · /status · /changelog.
checked Aug 2026
Work under central/provincial international agreement — permit exempt
NĐ 219/2025/NĐ-CP Điều 7 khoản 12
yes
Source NĐ 219/2025/NĐ-CP Điều 7 khoản 12
Checked Aug 2026 · Band high · Status fresh
Open primary URL
Method: figures past 2× SLA hide. See /method · /status · /changelog.
checked Aug 2026
Intra-company transfer: prior continuous employment months required
NĐ 219/2025/NĐ-CP Điều 7 khoản 13 điểm b
12 months
Source NĐ 219/2025/NĐ-CP Điều 7 khoản 13 điểm b
Checked Aug 2026 · Band high · Status fresh
Open primary URL
Method: figures past 2× SLA hide. See /method · /status · /changelog.
checked Aug 2026
Ministry of Education & Training confirmation path — permit exempt
NĐ 219/2025/NĐ-CP Điều 7 khoản 14
yes
Source NĐ 219/2025/NĐ-CP Điều 7 khoản 14
Checked Aug 2026 · Band high · Status fresh
Open primary URL
Method: figures past 2× SLA hide. See /method · /status · /changelog.
checked Aug 2026
Days for employer to return an expired/invalid work permit to the issuer
NĐ 219/2025/NĐ-CP Điều 31 khoản 1
15 days
Source NĐ 219/2025/NĐ-CP Điều 31 khoản 1
Checked Aug 2026 · Band high · Status fresh
Open primary URL
Method: figures past 2× SLA hide. See /method · /status · /changelog.
checked Aug 2026
On administrative revoke, issuer notifies employer and Immigration Department
NĐ 219/2025/NĐ-CP Điều 31 khoản 2
yes
Source NĐ 219/2025/NĐ-CP Điều 31 khoản 2
Checked Aug 2026 · Band high · Status fresh
Open primary URL
Method: figures past 2× SLA hide. See /method · /status · /changelog.
checked Aug 2026
Days for employer to return an expired exemption confirmation
NĐ 219/2025/NĐ-CP Điều 33 khoản 1
15 days
Source NĐ 219/2025/NĐ-CP Điều 33 khoản 1
Checked Aug 2026 · Band high · Status fresh
Open primary URL
Method: figures past 2× SLA hide. See /method · /status · /changelog.
checked Aug 2026
Labour Code defines a day-count for 'living in Vietnam' marriage exemption
BLLĐ 45/2019 Điều 154 khoản 8 — 'sinh sống trên lãnh thổ Việt Nam' with no day-count or registration threshold in the Labour Code
no
Source BLLĐ 45/2019 Điều 154 khoản 8 — 'sinh sống trên lãnh thổ Việt Nam' with no day-count or registration threshold in the Labour Code
Checked Aug 2026 · Band low · Status fresh
Open primary URL
Method: figures past 2× SLA hide. See /method · /status · /changelog.
checked Aug 2026
Number of statutory work-form limbs for foreign workers
NĐ 219/2025/NĐ-CP Điều 2 khoản 1 điểm a→m
13
Source NĐ 219/2025/NĐ-CP Điều 2 khoản 1 điểm a→m
Checked Aug 2026 · Band high · Status fresh
Open primary URL
Method: figures past 2× SLA hide. See /method · /status · /changelog.
checked Aug 2026
Thirteen work forms (Điều 2.1 a–m)
NĐ 219/2025/NĐ-CP Điều 2 khoản 1 (vbpl ItemID=180273)
a employment contract; b intra-company transfer; c economic/social contracts; d contractual service supplier; đ service seller; e volunteer; g commercial-presence founder; h secondment (ex-ICT); i project/bid packages; k diplomatic-family treaty work; l board/owner capital under 3bn VND; m employment with foreign mission/org in VN
Source NĐ 219/2025/NĐ-CP Điều 2 khoản 1 (vbpl ItemID=180273)
Checked Aug 2026 · Band high · Status fresh
Open primary URL
Method: figures past 2× SLA hide. See /method · /status · /changelog.
checked Aug 2026
Board/owner under 3bn VND is a permit-required work form
NĐ 219/2025/NĐ-CP Điều 2 khoản 1 điểm l — capital under 3 billion VND is a work form that requires a permit
yes
Source NĐ 219/2025/NĐ-CP Điều 2 khoản 1 điểm l — capital under 3 billion VND is a work form that requires a permit
Checked Aug 2026 · Band high · Status fresh
Open primary URL
Method: figures past 2× SLA hide. See /method · /status · /changelog.
checked Aug 2026
Forms a and m require a written employment contract before start
NĐ 219/2025/NĐ-CP Điều 22 khoản 4 — forms a and m must sign written employment contract before planned start
yes
Source NĐ 219/2025/NĐ-CP Điều 22 khoản 4 — forms a and m must sign written employment contract before planned start
Checked Aug 2026 · Band high · Status fresh
Open primary URL
Method: figures past 2× SLA hide. See /method · /status · /changelog.
checked Aug 2026
A single national work-permit fee schedule is filed
NĐ 219 has no fee amounts. Work-permit fees are set by provincial HĐND under TT 85/2019/TT-BTC (as amended by TT 106/2021) — not a single national schedule
no
Source NĐ 219 has no fee amounts. Work-permit fees are set by provincial HĐND under TT 85/2019/TT-BTC (as amended by TT 106/2021) — not a single national schedule
Checked Aug 2026 · Band low · Status fresh
Open primary URL
Method: figures past 2× SLA hide. See /method · /status · /changelog.
checked Aug 2026
Work-permit fees are set at provincial council level
Practice under Luật Phí và lệ phí + TT 85/2019/TT-BTC provincial competence (illustrated by provincial NQ e.g. Đồng Nai 43/2025) — amounts vary by province
yes
Source Practice under Luật Phí và lệ phí + TT 85/2019/TT-BTC provincial competence (illustrated by provincial NQ e.g. Đồng Nai 43/2025) — amounts vary by province
Checked Aug 2026 · Band med · Status fresh
Method: figures past 2× SLA hide. See /method · /status · /changelog.
checked Aug 2026
All thirteen Điều 2 work forms are filed
NĐ 219/2025/NĐ-CP Điều 2 khoản 1 a–m filed 2026-08-09 (closes N10)
yes
Source NĐ 219/2025/NĐ-CP Điều 2 khoản 1 a–m filed 2026-08-09 (closes N10)
Checked Aug 2026 · Band low · Status fresh
Open primary URL
Method: figures past 2× SLA hide. See /method · /status · /changelog.
checked Aug 2026

Common questions

Can a foreign doctor work in Vietnam with only a work permit?

No. Clinical practice needs a Vietnam medical practice licence — or Ministry of Health recognition of a foreign licence — and, separately, lawful labour paper. One does not replace the other.

Where do foreign clinicians actually work?

International and private hospitals, specialty clinics, and some teaching/research posts. Employers sponsor labour paper; the Ministry of Health stack governs practice licensing.

Can a foreign medical licence replace the Vietnam licence?

Clinical work — practice licence and labour paper are two gates

What people actually do

Dual gates

1. Medical practice licence

2. Work permit (or filed exemption)

Tax and life

Dead ends

Open the next door

Common questions

Clinical work — practice licence and labour paper are two gates

What people actually do

Dual gates

1. Medical practice licence

2. Work permit (or filed exemption)

Tax and life

Dead ends

Open the next door

Common questions