New Regulations on Foreign Workers in Vietnam

Relaxed Requirements for Foreign Experts

Article 3(3) of Decree 219/2025 provides a more flexible definition of “expert.” A foreign expert is now defined as:

• A person holding a university degree or higher with at least two years of relevant work experience; or

• A person holding a university degree and one year of relevant experience if working in priority sectors such as finance, science and technology, innovation, national digital transformation, or other key economic–social development areas identified by competent authorities or under intergovernmental cooperation agreements.

Previously, under Decree 152/2020, all experts were required to have a minimum of three years of relevant work experience. The new regulation therefore broadens eligibility and facilitates entry for qualified professionals.

Shorter Work Permit Processing Time

Article 22 of Decree 219/2025 significantly reduces the processing time for work permit applications to 10 working days after receiving a complete dossier, compared to up to 36 days under the old rules.

Employers may submit applications directly, by post, through authorized service providers, or via the National Public Service Portal. Administrative service centers will forward applications to competent authorities under the “one-stop-shop” mechanism. If the permit is denied, the authority must issue a written explanation within three working days.

Once approved, the employer and foreign employee must sign a written labor contract before the intended start date. For employees working across multiple provinces or cities, the employer must notify the relevant local authorities at least three days in advance.

The integration of the labor demand reporting procedure into the work permit application process helps eliminate redundant steps, streamline administration, and enhance transparency.

Cases of Work Permit Revocation

Articles 30 and 32 of Decree 219/2025 specify the circumstances under which a work permit or exemption certificate may be revoked:

• Expired documents;

• Violations in the issuance, renewal, or use of the permit;

• The foreign worker being prosecuted or under criminal investigation;

• The employer ceases operations;

• The sending organization issues a written termination notice.

Summary

Decree 219/2025 reflects a more flexible and reform-oriented approach to managing foreign labor in Vietnam. By shortening processing times, simplifying procedures, and expanding eligibility for experts, the new regulations are expected to create a more favorable environment for enterprises to attract international talent while maintaining state oversight and labor security.