Work Authorization for U.S. Citizens and Green Card Holders in Vietnam

1. What different types of work authorization are available for U.S. citizens and Green Card holders in Vietnam?

For U.S. citizens, the most common type of work authorization in Vietnam is an Employment Permit (EP). This document is issued by Vietnam’s Ministry of Labor, War Invalids and Social Affairs (MOLISA). It is required for any foreign citizen to legally work in Vietnam. Green Card holders in Vietnam may also apply for an EP, but they must first obtain a valid long-term visa such as a Business Visa, a Temporary Residence Card, or a Permanent Residence Card. Other types of work authorization available for U.S. citizens and Green Card holders in Vietnam include Investment Certificates, which are granted to investors who make substantial investments in the country; and Professional Certificates, which are granted to professionals with at least five years of experience in their field.

2. What are the eligibility requirements for obtaining a work visa in Vietnam for U.S. citizens and Green Card holders?

For U.S. citizens and Green Card holders, the eligibility requirements for obtaining a work visa in Vietnam include having a valid passport and a valid work permit issued by the Vietnamese Ministry of Labor, Invalids and Social Affairs. The applicant must also have a job offer from an approved Vietnamese company, as well as a valid visa application form, two passport-sized photographs, and other documents such as an invitation letter from the employer or evidence of qualifications and relevant experience. All required documents must be provided at the time of application.

3. Is a valid passport required for U.S. citizens and Green Card holders to obtain a work visa in Vietnam?

Yes, a valid passport is required for U.S. citizens and Green Card holders to obtain a work visa in Vietnam.

4. Is a criminal background check necessary to obtain a work visa in Vietnam for U.S. citizens and Green Card holders?

No, a criminal background check is not necessary to obtain a work visa in Vietnam for U.S. citizens and Green Card holders. However, it is important to note that certain visa applications may require a criminal background check if the applicant has a history of criminal convictions.

5. What is the application process for obtaining a work visa in Vietnam for U.S. citizens and Green Card holders?

Work visas for U.S. citizens and Green Card holders are obtained through the Vietnamese Embassy in the United States. Applicants must submit a valid passport, two recent passport-sized photographs, a completed application form, an invitation letter from their employer in Vietnam, proof of sufficient funds to cover living expenses, and a visa fee. The application must also include evidence of a valid health insurance policy (for non-residents) and a police clearance certificate. The Embassy may also require other information or documents prior to issuing the visa.

6. How long does it take to obtain a work visa in Vietnam for U.S. citizens and Green Card holders?

The processing time for a work visa in Vietnam for U.S. citizens and Green Card holders can vary depending on the type of visa and the applicant’s individual situation. Generally speaking, it can take anywhere from 2 weeks to 6 months for a work visa to be approved.

7. Is there a limit on the number of years that U.S. citizens and Green Card holders can remain on a work visa in Vietnam?

No, there is no limit on the number of years U.S. citizens and Green Card holders can remain in Vietnam on a work visa. However, it is important to note that U.S. citizens and Green Card holders must apply for a new work visa every 12 months, or upon any major change in their job or place of work.

8. Can U.S. citizens and Green Card holders renew their work visas in Vietnam?

Yes, U.S. citizens and Green Card holders may be able to renew their work visas in Vietnam. The renewal process will depend on the type of visa and the individual’s circumstances. It is recommended that U.S. citizens and Green Card holders contact the nearest Vietnamese Embassy or Consulate for more information on the specific requirements to renew a work visa in Vietnam.

9. Are there any restrictions on the types of jobs that U.S. citizens and Green Card holders can hold while on a work visa in Vietnam?

Yes. U.S. citizens and Green Card holders are subject to the same labor restrictions as other foreign nationals working in Vietnam. The Vietnamese government regulates the types of jobs that foreign nationals can hold in the country, and only certain types of occupations are eligible for work visas. These include teaching English, engineering and technology, management and administration, consulting and financial services, legal services, and healthcare.

10. Are there any fees associated with applying for a work visa in Vietnam for U.S. citizens and Green Card holders?

Yes, there are fees associated with applying for a work visa in Vietnam for U.S. citizens and Green Card holders. The fee for a single-entry visa is $135, and the fee for a multiple-entry visa is $255. In addition to the fee, applicants must also pay a processing fee of $25.

11. Is there an age limit for U.S. citizens and Green Card holders applying for a work visa in Vietnam?

Yes, there is an age limit for U.S. citizens and Green Card holders applying for a work visa in Vietnam. Applicants must be between 18 and 55 years old.

12. Are there any limitations on the number of hours U.S. citizens and Green Card holders can work while on a work visa in Vietnam?

Yes, the Labor Law of Vietnam sets out a maximum of eight hours per day and 48 hours per week for full-time employment for foreign workers with a valid work visa in Vietnam.

13. Is there a minimum salary requirement for U.S. citizens and Green Card holders to obtain a work visa in Vietnam?

No, there is no minimum salary requirement for U.S. citizens and Green Card holders to obtain a work visa in Vietnam.

14. What documentation must be provided to apply for a work visa in Vietnam for U.S. citizens and Green Card holders?

To apply for a work visa in Vietnam for U.S. citizens and Green Card holders, the following documentation must be provided:

– Valid Passport/Visa
– Completed visa application form
– Recent passport-size photograph
– Valid Green Card/ Employment Authorization Card
– Evidence of proper qualifications and/or credentials for the job in Vietnam
– Official invitation letter from the employer in Vietnam
– Evidence of financial support during the stay in Vietnam
– Evidence of health insurance
– Evidence of criminal record check

15. Does the employer need to register with the local government when hiring U.S. citizens and Green Card holders on a work visa in Vietnam?

No, the employer does not need to register with the local government when hiring U.S. citizens and Green Card holders on a work visa in Vietnam. However, they do need to obtain a work permit from the Department of Labor, War Invalids and Social Affairs.

16. How long does it take for an employer to receive approval to hire U.S. citizens and Green Card holders on a work visa in Vietnam?

The processing time for obtaining approval to hire U.S. citizens and Green Card holders on a work visa in Vietnam can vary depending on the complexity of the case and the documents submitted, but the general timeline is approximately 10-12 weeks.

17 How long is a work visa valid for U.S citizen and Green Card holders in Vietnam?

U.S. citizens and Green Card holders are currently eligible to receive a 1-year multiple-entry visa for Vietnam. However, the visa is only valid for up to 90 days at a time.

18 Is labor registration required for US Citizens or Green Card Holders working on a Work Visa in Vietnam?

Yes, foreign nationals working in Vietnam must register their labor in the country. This applies to both US citizens and green card holders. The registration process is done through the Department of Planning and Investment (DPI). The employer must submit a labor contract, identity documents, and a medical certificate for the employee to the DPI.

19 Does the employee have to be physically present in Vietnam when applying for a Work Visa as US Citizen or Green Card Holder?

No, the employee does not have to be physically present in Vietnam when applying for a Work Visa as US Citizen or Green Card Holder. The employee can apply for the visa from their home country, if they are eligible.

20 Are there any restrictions on the types of businesses that US Citizens or Green Card Holders can open while working on a Work Visa in Vietnam?

Yes, there are restrictions on the types of businesses US Citizens or Green Card Holders can open while working on a Work Visa in Vietnam. According to the Ministry of Planning and Investment (MPI), only certain business fields are open to foreign nationals, including services such as hotels, transportation, restaurants, and entertainment. Businesses in the manufacturing sector must be established as joint ventures with Vietnamese partners. Additionally, the MPI must approve any foreign-invested project before it can proceed.