Work permit exemption in Vietnam: who qualifies and what you still have to do

Vietnamese law lists a number of cases where a foreigner may work without a work permit. Many employers take that to mean no documents are needed at all. In practice this group has a procedure of its own.

Who is usually exempt

• Investors who are owners or capital-contributing members above the capital threshold set by regulation.
• Foreigners married to Vietnamese citizens and living in Vietnam.
• Intra-company transferees in the service sectors covered by Vietnam's WTO commitments.
• People entering Vietnam for short-term work within the time limits set by law.
• Certain other cases under international treaties and sector-specific rules.

What you still have to do

For most of these groups the employer must ask the competent authority to confirm that the employee is not subject to a work permit. A few cases only require a notification. The confirmation has an expiry date and is the basis for an LĐ1 visa and a temporary residence card.

Typical documents

• The employer's request for confirmation.
• The employee's passport.
• Proof of the exemption: an enterprise registration certificate showing the capital contribution, a marriage certificate, or an assignment letter.
• A health certificate, depending on the case.

Common mistakes

• Letting the employee start work before the confirmation is issued.
• Assuming any capital contribution qualifies, when there is a minimum threshold.
• Forgetting to renew the confirmation when it expires.

Work permit rules were updated in 2025. Check your case against the current regulations before filing.