Vietnam
November 2010
This summary is intended for informational purposes only and should not be considered an authoritative guide on how to obtain work authorization in Vietnam. The intent is to give the reader a general overview of the process only. Procedures and requirements may have changed since the writing of this article or may have been inaccurately characterized in it. For current and detailed information regarding the topics below, as well as documentary requirements, processing times, post-arrival and departure requirements, penalties for non-compliance, allowances for accompanying family members, and any other information pertaining to your specific needs, please contact your Pro-Link GLOBAL immigration professional.
Overview
BUSINESS VISITOR
Permitted Activities - Business visitors must generally limit their activities to the following:
- Meetings
- Sales calls
- Attending seminars
- Short term restoration or installation of machinery
Basic Requirements –
- Intention of a genuine visit for business and not for paid employment;
- Good health and character;
- Evidence that there are no restrictions on his or her traveling to Vietnam
- No intention to permanently reside in Vietnam
- A ticket for onward travel from Vietnam
Estimated Processing Times – This varies by diplomatic post and country.
Maximum Time On Visa - This visa allows business people to make a short business visit to Vietnam for up to a maximum of six months during your visa validity period.
Typical Documents Required –
All travelers need to present the following documents to officers in immigration clearance:
- a valid passport or other acceptable travel document
- a valid visa or authority to enter Vietnam
EMPLOYMENT AUTHORIZATION
Basic Requirements - The principal visa category for temporary employment in Vietnam is the intra-company work permit. This is a category for employers to sponsor approved skilled workers to work in Vietnam on a temporary basis.
Who is this visa for? - This visa is for employers who would like to employ overseas workers to fill highly skilled positions in Vietnam.
Process Overview - The process for obtaining work authorization involves four steps, summarized below.
- Multi-entry visa application (on arrival, with a letter of authorisation provided by Pro-Link GLOBAL)
- Residence registration (within 24 hours of arrival)
- Work Permit
- Temporary Residence Card
Please note that extensive documentation including legalized personal documents, police clearances, company documents and medicals will be needed.
Estimated Processing Time – 4 to 8 weeks
Validity periods - With this visa you can employ overseas workers for up to three years.
Family Members - Secondary/ family dependants are not granted work permission as dependants.
