Decree 219/2025/NĐ-CP in Vietnam: The New Work Permit Regime for Foreigners

Date of Promulgation and Entry into Force:

Decree No. 219/2025/NĐ-CP was promulgated on August 7, 2025, and took effect on the same date.

1. Competent Authority: Who Issues the Permit?

Before Decree 219 (until August 7, 2025):

Work permits were issued by the Ministry of Labor or by the Provincial Departments of Labor, Invalids, and Social Affairs.
Processing time: 5 working days.

Since Decree 219/2025/NĐ-CP (after August 7, 2025):

The responsibility for issuing, reissuing, extending, and revoking work permits now lies with the Provincial People’s Committee (chairs of the provincial people’s committees).

This authority handles applications when the employer has its head office, a branch, or operations in the relevant locality.
Processing time: 10 working days from receipt of the complete application.

If rejected: a written explanation must be provided within 3 working days from the decision.

Evolution of Administrative Procedures

The application must now include a report explaining the need to employ foreign workers, in addition to the standard required documents.

Specific procedures, the list of exemptions, and the steps to follow are detailed in the decree text.

Administrative Contacts for Procedures Related to Decree 219/2025/NĐ-CP in Vietnam

1.1. Ministry of Labor, Invalids, and Social Affairs (MOLISA) – National Level

Postal address:
12 Ngo Quyen Street, Hoan Kiem District, Hanoi, Vietnam

Telephone:
(+84 24) 6270 3645

General email address:
Not specified for the work permit service — use the national portal or call by phone.

Online services portal (public service):
Available through the ministry’s official website.

2. Application and Justification Requirements

Before Decree 219

The work permit process was broken into several separate steps. A preliminary request justifying the use of foreign workers was often required, leading to repeated administrative exchanges and longer overall processing times.

Since Decree 219/2025/NĐ-CP

The procedure is now simplified and integrated through a single form (Form No. 03). This change significantly reduces back-and-forth steps. The single form gathers all the information and documents required for both the work permit request and the justification for hiring a foreign worker.

Contents of the now-integrated application:
The single form includes standard information about the foreign worker and the employer.
It also requests a detailed justification explaining the need for the foreign hire, which will be reviewed by the competent authority.

Supporting documents proving the worker’s qualifications, health, clean criminal record, and prior approval for employment from the relevant authorities must also be attached.

The complete application is submitted to the competent Provincial People’s Committee corresponding to the employer’s locality or place of employment.

Advantages of the new system:

• Elimination of separate preliminary and permit request phases.

• Reduced processing times thanks to a streamlined and centralized process.

• Lower risk of mistakes or missing documents through consolidation into one form.

• Local competence allows faster processing and adaptation to provincial specifics.

In summary, the new procedure under Decree 219 aims to make obtaining a work permit simpler, faster, and more transparent by combining all justifications into one form and centralizing processing with provincial authorities.

The Form Is Not Yet Published

The direct link to Form No. 03 used for work permit applications under Decree 219/2025 in Vietnam is not always directly available online as a freely downloadable official format. However, this form is part of the decree and its annexes, usually available on official Vietnamese government websites or through the relevant Provincial People’s Committee.

How to obtain the form:

• Visit the official MOLISA website or the National Public Service Portal: http://dvc.vieclamvietnam.gov.vn

• Contact the Provincial People’s Committee where the employer is based to request the official form.

• Obtain it through a professional service specializing in Vietnamese administrative procedures.

Form No. 03 combines both the justification for hiring a foreign worker and the formal work permit application, thereby avoiding separate steps as before.

3. Expanded Work Permit Exemptions

Decree 219 significantly broadens the list of profiles and situations exempt from having to obtain a work permit, subject to approval by competent authorities. The aim is to make Vietnam’s labor market more attractive and flexible, especially for foreign talent in key sectors.

Exempted profiles include:

• Workers in priority sectors such as finance, science, technology, innovation, digital transformation, and other strategic fields defined by the government.

• Foreign investors or executives contributing at least VND 3 billion (approx. USD 114,000), recognizing their key role in economic development.

• Individuals engaged in Official Development Assistance (ODA) projects or providing technical consulting services.

• Foreign journalists officially recognized by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Vietnam.

• Teachers or administrators sent by diplomatic institutions or international organizations.

• Students, trainees, or apprentices with valid contracts or invitations.

• Trainees aboard Vietnamese ships as part of their specialized practical training.

This expansion of exemptions facilitates professional mobility and the integration of essential talent for socio-economic development while reducing administrative burdens.

4. Impacts and Benefits of Decree 219

Decree 219 delivers several substantial benefits for employers, foreign workers, and the administration:

• Administrative simplification: The process is streamlined through a single form and fewer steps, making file preparation and processing easier.

• Clarity and responsiveness: Authorities must respond within strict deadlines, either with approval or a clear written justification in case of refusal.

• Decentralization: Responsibility is assigned to provincial people’s committees, closer to the ground, allowing faster processing and better adaptation to local specifics.

• Support for strategic sectors: By targeting exemptions for priority sectors and recognizing high-value investors, the decree encourages the involvement of talent and capital in key areas of development.

• Enhanced attractiveness: Looser requirements for certain profiles help draw skilled labor in an internationally competitive environment.

In summary, Decree 219/2025/NĐ-CP modernizes Vietnam’s work permit management with a more flexible, efficient, and strategically focused approach.

Useful Contacts and Official Resources for Work Permits in Vietnam

1. Official Vietnamese Government Website – Work Permits Portal

To consult detailed procedures, conditions, and forms related to work permits under Decree 219/2025:
Vietnam Government Portal – Work Permits
Link: https://www.chinhphu.vn/portal/page/portal/English
(particularly the “Work Permits” or “Labour & Employment” sections on this portal)

2. Vietnam Social Security (VSS) Website

VSS provides official information and summaries on the new provisions of the decree, particularly regarding social rights and contributions related to foreign workers.
Vietnam Social Security – External Information
Link: https://www.vss.gov.vn/en

3. Official General Email for Work and Permit Regulation Inquiries (via VSS):

contact@vss.gov.vn

4. Specialized Contacts for Legal Assistance or Specific Cases

Some international law and immigration firms, such as Fragomen, offer a dedicated contact for their clients:
Fragomen contact (reserved for Fragomen clients)
Email: klau@fragomen.com

5. Contacts for Provincial People’s Committees

There is no single public email address for the Provincial People’s Committees or the Ministry of Foreign Affairs regarding work permits.
It is recommended to:

• Search on Google using the name of the province + “People’s Committee”

• Visit the provincial administrative portals, often available in Vietnamese or English

• Use online forms available on local platforms

Summary:

Decree 219/2025 deeply reforms the work permit system in Vietnam. It:

• Changes the competent authority (Provincial People’s Committees) and doubles the processing time.

• Merges procedures into a single form.

• Significantly expands exemptions to encourage certain targeted profiles.

• Ensures greater administrative transparency.

For any procedure, start with the national government website or provincial portals; the email contact@vss.gov.vn may be useful for general inquiries.

One-Stop Desk and Application File for Work Permits:

Essential Supporting Documents for Foreign Nationals in Vietnam

Obtaining a work permit in Vietnam, in accordance with Decree 219/2025/NĐ-CP, requires submitting a complete file to the competent counter. This file must include several essential supporting documents to establish the applicant’s identity, administrative status, and eligibility.

1. Civil Status Documents and Identity Papers

For any work authorization request, the presentation of reliable civil status documents is required:

• Valid passport containing the visa or residence card application receipt.

• Residence permit, residence card, or duplicate in case of loss, along with photocopies of these documents.

• National ID card or identity card for French nationals or other nationalities.

• The standard administrative form (similar to the “Cerfa” form in other jurisdictions) corresponds to Vietnam’s single work permit application form.

For certain procedures, foreign nationals must also present a prior visa application issued by the competent Vietnamese consulate in their country of origin.

2. Additional Supporting Documents

Local authorities may request additional documents depending on the foreign national’s situation and the type of professional activity:

• Employer’s business registration or tax registration certificates.

• Proof of supplementary insurance, including mandatory health insurance for foreigners residing in Vietnam.

• Family-related documents, such as proof of family allowances if applicable.

• Proof of address, often including a Cedex label for postal communication.

• For certain profiles, specific authorization is required, particularly for regulated professions or asylum cases.

3. Submission Procedures

The file can be submitted by post or directly at the Provincial People’s Committee administrative counter, depending on local arrangements.
It is generally recommended to make full photocopies of all supporting documents to facilitate processing.
The counter may issue a receipt confirming proper submission of the application.
In case of loss or error, a duplicate may be requested.

4. Rights and Obligations of Foreign Residents

Renewing a work permit or residence card requires submitting a new file with all updated supporting documents.
Foreign nationals must inform authorities of departures from Vietnam, changes of status, or changes of employer.
Compliance with formalities is essential to maintain the right to work and to receive social benefits and services in Vietnam.

This administrative framework ensures better management of foreign workers by guaranteeing transparency, traceability, and compliance of documents throughout the process carried out by the competent authorities.

For a successful application, it is crucial to ensure the submitted file includes all required documents, such as passport, residence permit, correctly completed form, professional certificates, and other necessary administrative papers.

If you need assistance in preparing your file or require more information, contact your local Provincial People’s Committee counter or the nearest Vietnamese consulate.

Understanding Citizenship, Residency, and Work Permit Applications under Vietnam’s Decree 219/2025

Vietnam’s recent Decree 219/2025 introduces significant updates to the work permit and residency framework for foreign nationals. Navigating the application process requires a clear understanding of the necessary documentation, consular procedures, and immigration services impacting citizenship, residency status, and work authorization.

Application Process and Essential Documents

The application process for a work permit or permanent residency in Vietnam involves preparing a comprehensive dossier that meticulously includes all required application forms and pieces justificatives (supporting documents). Key documents typically include:

• A valid passport or certified travel document, along with a photocopy.

• A valid visa, permanent residence card, or residency permit.

• Relevant identification cards such as national ID or certified copy of identification-card.

• Completed and signed application forms, sometimes referred to in other jurisdictions as Cerfa forms.

• For certain applications such as citizenship or permanent residence, submission of an affidavit or letter from an employer or relevant government authority may be required.

• For family-related petitions, marriage certificates or proof of family relationship are necessary.

• Applicants undergoing a name change or requiring duplicata (duplicate documents) must provide official certifying documents.

Role of Embassies and Consular Services

Foreign nationals often engage their home country’s embassy or consular services for assistance with initial application filings, obtaining or renewing travel documents, and legalizing documents such as marriage certificates and affidavits. Embassies may also assist in providing proof of identity and facilitating translation or certification of documents.

Citizenship and Permanent Residence

Vietnamese law allows foreigners who meet eligibility criteria to apply for citizenship or become permanent residents. The USCIS equivalent Vietnamese immigration authority requires applicants to demonstrate:

• Continuous residency (typically 5 years or more).

• Compliance with local laws and customs.

• Renunciation of former nationality (Vietnam typically does not allow dual nationality except under certain conditions).

• Submission of original or certified copies of supporting documentation for background checks and identity verification.

The granting of citizenship or permanent residence bestows the right to live, work, and access social services without recurrent visas or permit renewals. Renewals of cards of permanent residence or carte d’identité (national identity cards) must be done before expiration, following a strict timeline to avoid an invalid or expired status.

Key Immigration Services and Administrative Points

• The immigration services in Vietnam manage applications via provincial guichet offices or online platforms where applicants may submit documents or request information.

• All mailed applications or documents should be sent with appropriate tracking and addressed to official provincial immigration or labor departments.

• Receipt of application is usually acknowledged by a récépissé that confirms the dossier was received and is under processing.

• Delays or expiration of permits can affect your ability to remain and work legally; therefore, timely renewal and compliance are critical.

• Foreign nationals on student visas or under exemption categories (such as diplomatic or consular personnel) must still adhere to reporting and registration requirements.

• Compliance with regulatory frameworks often requires presenting photo ID, diplomas, or other proof of identity as part of the application.

Travel Considerations and Additional Documentation

For foreign workers or residents traveling internationally:

• Travel documents and visas must be secured and kept valid.

• Entry to the Schengen area or other countries may require proof of legal residency or work authorization in Vietnam.

• Changes in status (such as from temporary resident to permanent resident) necessitate updated travel authorization documentation.

This overview highlights the critical points related to citizenship, permanent residence, work permit applications, required documents, and the roles of embassies and immigration services in Vietnam’s evolving legal landscape under Decree 219/2025. For a successful application process, ensure all documents—including passports, identification cards, application forms, affidavits, and supporting certificates—are complete, certified where necessary, and submitted through authorized channels.

If you need further assistance tailoring your application or understanding specific procedures, contacting the local Vietnamese immigration office or your embassy is recommended.

FAQ – Administrative Procedures and Official Documents in Vietnam

Minor: What are the procedures for a permit or passport?

For a minor, the application must be made by the legal guardian. Proof of parental authority is required, and the child’s presence is often mandatory.

Birth Certificate: Is it required?

Yes, an original birth certificate or a certified copy is generally required to prove identity and parentage.

Which identity document should be provided?

Depending on the request (passport, ID card), you must present a valid official document: national ID card, passport, or residence permit.

How to make an appointment?

Appointments can be made online via the official portal or directly at the town hall or competent consulate.

Proof of address: What document is acceptable?

Recent utility bill (electricity, water, phone), rent receipt, or accommodation certificate with the host’s ID.

Biometric data: What does it include?

Compliant ID photo, fingerprints, and electronic signature collected on-site during file submission.

Civil registry service: What are its duties?

It records civil acts (birth, marriage, death) and issues copies and extracts necessary for administrative procedures.

What is the validity period of an issued document?

ID card: 10 years, Passport: 10 years (5 years for minors), certain administrative documents: variable validity.

List of required documents?

Each procedure has its own list: form, ID, photo, proof of address, tax stamp, civil status act.

Where to submit the application at the town hall?

At city hall or a municipal branch with a secure document issuance service.

Legal representative: Who can act as one?

A parent with parental authority, a court-appointed guardian, or a proxy holder.

Application submission: How does it work?

Submit a complete file, originals, photocopies, and the required tax stamp.

Validity period: What does it mean?

The time during which an administrative document remains valid for use.

Tax stamps: Where to buy them?

Online at timbres.impots.gouv.fr or at licensed tobacco shops.

Family record book: Is it mandatory?

Yes, for certain procedures, especially for requests concerning minors.

ID card: How to renew it?

Renewal is done at the town hall, by appointment, with supporting documents and a recent photo.

City hall: What services are provided?

Civil registry, issuance of documents, voter registration, and administrative information.

Parental authority: How to prove it?

Family record book, divorce judgment, or notarized statement may be required.

Power of attorney: When to use it?

When a legal representative or third party submits the application on your behalf with your written consent.

Passports: What are the conditions?

First application or renewal with form, supporting documents, and applicant’s presence required.

Photocopies: Are they accepted?

Yes, but always accompanied by originals for verification.

Exit authorization: When is it mandatory?

For any minor traveling alone or without parents, unless the destination country waives it.

First passport application: What steps?

Fill out the form, prepare documents, buy the tax stamp, and go to the town hall or consulate.

Originals: Why are they required?

They allow verification of the authenticity of the documents provided.

Naturalization: What documents are required?

ID, proof of residence, civil status acts, proof of integration, and the official form.