Do I Need a Vietnam Work Permit?
Answer 3-5 questions to find out if you need a work permit, or if you qualify for an exemption.
Based on Decree 219/2025/ND-CP (effective August 2025). For binding legal advice, consult our team.
What best describes why you are working in Vietnam?
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Work permit rules are nuanced. Our consultants have seen it all - book a free 15-min call.
Work Permit Exemption Categories
Under Decree 219/2025/ND-CP (effective August 2025), these groups may be exempt from Vietnam work permit requirements:
Spouses of Vietnamese Citizens
Foreign nationals married to Vietnamese citizens and holding a marriage-based TRC qualify for a Work Permit Exemption Certificate - no full work permit required
Capital Owners
Foreign individuals who are legal capital-contributing members of a Vietnamese company (subject to minimum contribution threshold)
Board Members
Members of the Board of Directors or Members Council who are appointed in official company documents
Short-Stay Specialists
Specialists visiting Vietnam for under 30 days per trip, with no more than 3 visits and under 90 total days per year
Intra-Company Transfers
Managers, executives, and specialists transferred within a multinational for assignments under 3 months
Students/Interns
Foreign students completing internships that are formally part of their academic program
This is a summary only. Exact conditions, thresholds and documentation requirements apply. Always verify your specific situation with a qualified advisor before proceeding.