Work Vietnam-Visa: What You Need To Know
Living and working in Vietnam is an attractive option for many expats, and while the process of obtaining a work visa can be complicated, it is achievable. Here, we’ve broken down the steps to acquire a Vietnam work visa, to make the process as simple and smooth as possible.
What is a Vietnam Work Visa?
A Vietnam work visa is a type of long-term visa that is only issued to those that intend to take up long-term employment in Vietnam. It is not possible to apply for this type of visa without a sponsoring employer in Vietnam; the employer must apply and sponsor the visa on your behalf.
Who Qualifies For a Vietnam Work Visa?
The exact requirements to receive a work visa in Vietnam vary based on the position, salary, work experience, and type of industry. Generally, applicants must have the relevant qualifications for the role and must have a contract with an employer who is registered in Vietnam.
In addition, applicants must provide a copy of their passport, a recent medical certificate, and a criminal background check. Unfortunately, no quota is offered for the number of foreign workers in Vietnam, thus, the decision to grant a work visa is entirely discretionary.
How To Apply for a Vietnam Work Visa
The process of applying for a Vietnam work visa is lengthy and requires several steps. The following is an overview of the application process.
1. Obtain a Letter of Invitation
The first step in acquiring a work visa is to obtain a letter of invitation from the sponsoring employer. The employer will need to provide details of the role, salary, and other relevant information.
2. Complete the Application
Once the letter of invitation is obtained, the applicant can begin to complete the visa application. This includes uploading a passport-style photo, providing proof of qualifications, and furnishing police records if requested.
3. Pay the Visa Fee
The applicant will then be required to make payment for the visa processing fee. The fee varies depending on the length of the visa; three-month visas cost $100 (USD), six-month visas cost $250 (USD), and one-year visas cost $400 (USD).
4. Submit Application Documents
Once the fee has been paid, the applicant will need to submit the required documents to the visa office. These include a copy of the passport, a recent medical certificate, and a criminal background check.
5. Receive the Visa
Once the visa office has received all the required documents, and provided all of the documents are in order, the applicant will receive a visa and confirmation letter via email.
Visa Extension
For those already in Vietnam, it is possible to extend the visa if needed. The same documents are required to extend the visa as those needed for a new visa application. The fee for a three-month extension is $100 (USD), a six-month extension is $250 (USD), and a one-year extension is $400 (USD).
FAQs About Work Vietnam Visas
- Can I apply for a work Vietnam visa without an employer?
No, applicants must have a sponsoring employer to apply for a work Vietnam visa.
- Is there a quota for foreign workers?
No, there is no quota for foreign workers in Vietnam. The decision to grant a work visa is at the discretion of the visa office.
- How much does it cost to obtain a work visa in Vietnam?
The fee for a three-month visa is $100 (USD), a six-month visa is $250 (USD), and a one-year visa is $400 (USD).
- Can I extend my work visa?
Yes, those already in Vietnam can extend their work visa if needed. The fees for extensions are the same as those for a new visa application.
Conclusion
Living and working in Vietnam can be a great experience for many expats. While the process for obtaining a work visa can be complicated, with the right guidance, it’s achievable. Remember to obtain a letter of invitation from your sponsoring employer, and to provide all the required documents to the visa office. Once the procedure has been successfully completed, expats can start their new life in Vietnam with confidence!
