If you want to work legally in Vietnam as a foreigner, you need a work permit. This document gives you the right to work and stay in the country for a long time. Many people who want to move to Vietnam ask the same question: how much does a work permit in Vietnam cost?
In this article, we will explain everything you need to know. We will talk about the types of work permits, the fees involved, and the extra costs that may come up. We will also go over the process and what documents are needed. Everything will be explained in a simple and easy way, so you can understand the real cost of getting a Vietnam work permit.
What is a Vietnam Work Permit?
A Vietnam work permit is an official document issued by the Department of Labor, Invalids, and Social Affairs (DoLISA). This paper allows foreign nationals to work legally in Vietnam. Without it, a foreigner is not allowed to work and may face fines or deportation.
Work permits are usually valid for up to two years. If you want to stay longer, you can renew or apply again. Not every foreigner needs a work permit. Some people are exempt if they meet special conditions, but most workers need one.
Who Needs a Vietnam Work Permit?
If you are a foreigner and plan to work in Vietnam for more than three months, you will likely need a work permit. This includes people working for a local company, a foreign company, a representative office, or in education.
There are a few exceptions. For example:
You are a foreigner married to a Vietnamese citizen and living in Vietnam.
You are the head of a representative office.
You are coming to Vietnam for a short-term service.
But in general, if you want a long-term job in Vietnam, you need the permit.
Types of Jobs That Require a Work Permit
Many job types require a work permit. These include:
Teachers
IT professionals
Engineers
Construction workers
Chefs (especially foreign cuisine)
Managers or directors in foreign-invested companies
If you are unsure whether your job needs a permit, it’s best to check with your employer or a local legal advisor.
What Are the Costs of a Vietnam Work Permit?
Now, let’s get to the main question: how much does it cost?
The cost of a Vietnam work permit depends on the province or city where you apply. Each local labor office may charge slightly different fees. However, the average cost ranges from:
100 USD to 150 USD for the official application fee.
This fee covers the cost of processing your application and issuing the permit. It is paid directly to the local Department of Labor.
But there are more costs to consider. Let’s break them down.
Additional Costs You Should Expect
Apart from the government fee, there are several other costs. These include:
1. Health Check Fee
You must take a health check in Vietnam. This is usually done at a government-approved hospital. The cost is around:
40 USD to 60 USD, depending on the hospital.
The health check includes blood tests, a chest X-ray, and a general medical exam. It usually takes one day.
2. Criminal Background Check
You need to submit a police clearance certificate from your home country. This document must be legalized and translated into Vietnamese. The cost depends on where you are from. In general:
40 USD to 100 USD for the police report
20 USD to 40 USD for legalization
10 USD to 20 USD for translation and notarization
If you have been living in Vietnam for more than six months, you also need a local criminal record certificate, which costs about 25 USD.
3. Document Translation and Legalization
All documents in foreign languages must be translated into Vietnamese and legalized. This includes your degree, police record, and passport copy. Translation and notarization fees can cost around:
5 USD to 15 USD per page
If you have 5–6 pages, the cost can be around 30 USD to 90 USD in total.
4. Support Service Fees (Optional)
Some people choose to use visa or legal services to help them. These services can handle the entire process for you. They usually charge:
200 USD to 400 USD, depending on how much help you need.
If your case is simple, you may not need this. But if you are unsure about paperwork or need fast service, it can be helpful.
So, What Is the Total Cost?
Let’s add up all the possible costs:
Government fee: 100–150 USD
Health check: 40–60 USD
Police check (home country + legalization): 60–140 USD
Translation and notarization: 30–90 USD
Optional support services: 200–400 USD
Total Estimated Cost (without support service):
230 USD – 440 USD
Total Estimated Cost (with support service):
430 USD – 840 USD
This is a wide range because prices vary based on where you apply, the type of job, and whether you handle things yourself or get help.
What Documents Do You Need?
To apply for a work permit, you need to prepare several documents:
Application form (provided by the employer)
Health check certificate
Criminal background check
Passport (valid and not expired)
Passport-sized photos (4x6cm, white background)
University degree or certificate of experience
Letter of approval from the employer
Work contract
Proof of employer’s legal business registration
All documents in foreign languages must be translated into Vietnamese and notarized.
How Long Does It Take?
The process usually takes around 15 to 20 working days, but it can vary.
Health check: 1 day
Police certificate: 1–4 weeks (depending on your country)
Document preparation: 3–5 days
Application processing: 7–10 working days
If you use a service agency, the time can be shorter because they know the system well.
What Happens If You Don’t Have a Work Permit?
Working without a valid permit in Vietnam is risky. If you are caught, you could face:
Fines of up to 4,400 USD (depending on the case)
Deportation
Ban on re-entering Vietnam
Trouble getting future visas
Also, employers who hire foreigners without proper permits may be fined or have their business licenses suspended.
Can You Renew a Work Permit?
Yes. If your job continues and your documents are still valid, you can apply to renew your permit. You must apply at least 15 days before it expires. The renewal fee is similar to the new application, around 100–150 USD.
You will need to show updated documents, including a new health check and a valid work contract.
Final Tips for Getting a Vietnam Work Permit
Start early. Begin preparing your documents a few months before your job starts.
Double-check your documents. Make sure everything is accurate and complete.
Choose a trusted service provider if you are not confident handling the process.
Communicate with your employer. They usually help with paperwork and the process.
Follow the rules. Keep your permit valid, renew on time, and work legally.
Conclusion
So, how much does a work permit in Vietnam cost? The short answer is: it depends. On average, you’ll spend around 230 to 440 USD if you handle everything yourself. If you use an agency, it may cost up to 800 USD or more.
While the costs may seem high, they are necessary to work legally and safely in Vietnam. A valid work permit protects you and gives you peace of mind. It also shows respect for the local law and helps build a stable life in the country.
If you’re planning to move to Vietnam for work, understanding the costs and the process will make everything smoother. Start preparing early, get your documents ready, and don’t be afraid to ask for help when you need it.
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