New Regulations on Work Permits for Foreign Employees in Vietnam 2025

The Vietnamese Government has issued Decree No. 219/2025/NĐ-CP on foreign workers in Vietnam, introducing significant changes to the application process, competent authorities, and exemptions for work permits. The new decree replaces and updates provisions from Decree No. 152/2020/NĐ-CP and Decree No. 70/2023/NĐ-CP, aiming to simplify procedures, shorten processing times, and attract high-skilled talent in emerging sectors like semiconductors, artificial intelligence, and digital transformation.

Key Changes in the Work Permit Application Process

The 2025 regulations have restructured the work permit application process to reduce paperwork and make it more straightforward for both employers and employees.

So, what exactly does the updated process involve, and what documents are required?

Under the new decree, the requirement to submit a separate report explaining the need to hire foreign workers is integrated into the work permit application dossier. The application now includes:

1. The employer's written report explaining the need to use foreign workers and requesting a work permit according to Form No. 03 Appendix issued with this Decree.

2. Health certificate from an authorized medical facility, valid for up to 12 months (mutual recognition agreements apply for foreign-issued certificates).

3. Valid passport

4. Criminal record certificate (Vietnamese or foreign), issued within the last 6 months, unless linked through administrative procedures.

5. Two recent color photos (4x6 cm, white background, no glasses).

6. Proof of employment form depending on the type of work (e.g., internal transfer, service contract, project participation, board membership)

7. Proof of professional capacity (manager, executive, expert, or technical worker).

Processing Time and Authority

The decree also changes how quickly applications are processed and which government bodies are in charge.

Which agencies now handle work permit issuance, and how long does it take?

• Processing time: Within 10 working days from the date of receiving a valid application, the competent authority must approve the request and issue the work permit.
  

• If the permit is refused, a written explanation must be provided within 3 working days.
  

• Competent authority:
  

  • Provincial People’s Committees now have full authority to issue, reissue, extend, and revoke work permits and work permit exemption certificates.
    

  • If a foreign worker is employed in multiple provinces, the People’s Committee where the employer’s head office is located will handle the process.

Expanded List of Work Permit Exemptions

One of the most notable updates is the expansion of categories exempt from work permits, allowing more professionals to work without going through the permit process.

Who is now exempt from applying for a work permit under the 2025 decree?

Decree No. 219/2025/NĐ-CP broadens the scope of foreign workers who do not require a work permit. New exemptions include individuals certified by ministries, ministerial-level agencies, or provincial People’s Committees to work in:

• Finance
  

• Science & technology
  

• Innovation
  

• National digital transformation
  

• Other priority socio-economic sectors

In total, 15 exemption categories are listed, including:

The new regulations take effect on August 7, 2025. Employers and foreign workers are advised to review the updated requirements to ensure compliance and avoid application delays.