Vietnam Work Permit Update 2025: New Rules for Foreign Workers Under Decree 219
Vietnam Work Permit Update 2025: New Rules for Foreign Workers Under Decree 219
On 7 August 2025, Vietnam introduced Decree 219/2025/ND-CP, which brings the most significant update to the country’s work permit system since 2021. The new decree aims to make it easier for businesses to hire foreign workers and for professionals to take up jobs in Vietnam. It reduces unnecessary steps, speeds up processing times, and introduces new exemptions that give employers and workers more flexibility.
These changes reflect Vietnam’s goal of attracting more foreign talent, particularly in sectors such as technology, science, finance, and digital transformation, which are seen as key drivers of growth in the coming years. To understand how these updates work in practice, let’s look at some of the key changes introduced by Decree 219.
Shorter Job Posting Requirement
Previously, before a company could hire a foreign national, it had to advertise the job for at least 15 days on a government-controlled job portal. This was to prove that no suitable Vietnamese candidate could fill the role.
Decree 219 reduces this period to just five business days, making the process far quicker. In addition, companies are no longer restricted to the government portal, they can advertise jobs on their own websites, internal career pages, or other recruitment platforms.
This shift means businesses have more freedom in how they find candidates and no longer face unnecessary delays. For international companies working on tight project deadlines, this flexibility can make a big difference in planning and execution.
Easier Application Process
One of the most important updates is the removal of duplicate approval steps. In the past, employers had to first apply for job position approval before they could submit a work permit application. This extra layer often caused long delays.
Now, this approval is integrated directly into the work permit application itself, cutting out a separate stage. On top of this, companies can now submit a request for a police clearance certificate at the same time as the work permit. Both will be processed together through the National Public Service Portal.
With these improvements, the time needed to secure a work permit has been cut down to about 10 business days, compared to several weeks previously. This allows businesses to bring in foreign staff more quickly and begin projects without unnecessary waiting.
Flexible Qualification Requirements
Decree 219 also lowers the experience required for foreign experts and technicians, making it easier for skilled professionals to qualify.
For experts, the previous rule required a university degree and at least three years of experience. Now, only two years are required. If the expert is working in a priority sector such as technology, finance, or innovation, then just one year of relevant experience is enough. This change opens the door for younger professionals who can still bring strong skills to Vietnam.
For technicians, the requirements have also been eased. They can now qualify with one year of formal training plus two years of experience, or three years of experience without training. Before, the bar was set at three years with training or five years without.
This adjustment means companies have access to a larger pool of skilled foreign workers, which can help fill gaps in industries where Vietnam is still developing local expertise.
Expanded Work Permit Exemptions
The new decree also makes it easier for certain groups of foreign nationals to work in Vietnam without needing a work permit at all.
Under the new rules, foreign workers can now take on short-term assignments of up to 90 days per calendar year. This is a big increase from the old system, which only allowed 30 days per trip and up to three trips a year. Businesses that need specialists for short projects will find this change especially useful.
New categories of people are now also exempt, including:
- Spouses of Vietnamese citizens, who no longer need to apply for a separate exemption certificate.
- Foreign journalists, who are recognised under official approval.
- Investors who meet capital requirements.
- Experts in key sectors such as science, technology, finance, and digital transformation, provided they receive confirmation from the authorities.
These exemptions remove unnecessary barriers, making it easier for professionals and families to live and work in Vietnam while contributing to the country’s economy.
Flexibility to Work Across Provinces
Many companies in Vietnam operate across multiple provinces, which has often caused challenges when moving staff between locations. In the past, employers sometimes needed to apply for new permits if workers were assigned to a new province.
With Decree 219, a single work permit can now cover employment in different provinces. Employers only need to notify the local labour office three days in advance if the worker is starting in a new location.
This update is particularly valuable for companies in industries such as construction, logistics, or services, where projects may span across different regions. It cuts down on paperwork and gives businesses more freedom to allocate staff where they are most needed.
Reduced Paperwork for Employers
The government has also reduced the administrative burden on businesses. Companies no longer need to submit semi-annual reports about their use of foreign labour. In addition, employers do not have to include labour contracts with every permit application unless specifically requested.
This change saves time for HR teams and helps companies focus on day-to-day operations instead of getting caught up in repetitive reporting. It also shows a shift in approach from heavy monitoring to trusting businesses while still ensuring they remain compliant.
Clearer Timelines
Decree 219 provides more transparency about when applications should be submitted and how long they will take to process.
New applications must be filed between 60 and 10 business days before the job start date.
Renewals must be submitted between 45 and 10 business days before the current permit expires.
Processing times are set at 10 business days for new permits and five business days for renewals.
These clear deadlines make it easier for companies to plan ahead and avoid last-minute issues that could disrupt projects or travel plans.
What This Means for Employers and Workers
Taken together, these changes make Vietnam a more attractive destination for foreign professionals. The new rules cut down on unnecessary bureaucracy, shorten waiting times, and open the door for more people to qualify as foreign experts or technicians.
For employers, it means they can bring in international staff more quickly, manage them across different provinces, and spend less time on paperwork. For workers, it means easier entry, more exemptions, and simpler requirements to prove their eligibility.
Decree 219 marks an important turning point in Vietnam’s approach to foreign labour. By cutting unnecessary steps, speeding up approvals, and opening more exemption pathways, the government is sending a clear signal: Vietnam is ready to welcome international expertise.
For businesses, this means fewer delays and more flexibility in hiring the talent they need. For skilled professionals, it creates new opportunities to work and grow in a market that is rapidly expanding and full of potential.
At ATA Services Vietnam, we support companies and individuals through every step of the process from work permits and visas to PEO services and compliance. With our local expertise, we make it easier for businesses to bring in foreign talent and for professionals to begin working in Vietnam without unnecessary hurdles.
With these reforms and the right support, Vietnam is not only simplifying the rules but also strengthening its reputation as a dynamic and open destination for foreign workers and foreign talent who want to be part of the country’s future growth.
