Table of Contents
A complete guide to navigating the Vietnam Work Visa (LD) and Work Permit processes in 2026 for expats and foreign professionals.
Overview of Vietnam Work Visas (LD1 & LD2)
Foreign professionals intending to work in Vietnam must obtain a Work Visa (ký hiệu LĐ). As of 2026, the Vietnam work visa is categorized into two main types: LD1 and LD2. Unlike a standard Business Visa (DN) which allows you to attend meetings and explore opportunities, an LD visa legally permits you to be employed by a Vietnamese entity and receive a salary locally. For a comparison of all categories, see the Vietnam visa types guide.
- LD1 Visa: Issued to foreign workers who are exempt from a Work Permit requirement (e.g., intra-company transferees in certain sectors, board members with significant capital).
- LD2 Visa: Issued to foreign workers who are required to have a Vietnam Work Permit to work legally.
Do not confuse the Work Visa (LD) with the Business Visa (DN). Working in Vietnam on a DN visa or Tourist visa is strictly illegal and can result in deportation and blacklisting.
The Vietnam Work Permit (Giấy Phép Lao Động)
Before applying for an LD2 visa, you or your employer must secure a Work Permit. The Work Permit process in 2026 typically takes 3 to 6 weeks and requires significant documentation.
- Health Check: A certificate from an approved hospital in Vietnam or legalized from abroad.
- Criminal Record (Police Clearance): Issued within the last 6 months from your home country and/or Vietnam if you already reside there.
- Qualifications: University degree or higher, legalized by the Vietnamese Embassy.
- Experience Certificate: Proof of at least 3 years of relevant work experience, legalized.
- Sponsorship: Your employer must first receive an Approval of Demand for Foreign Workers from the Department of Labor, Invalids and Social Affairs (DOLISA).
Step-by-Step Timeline for 2026
Securing the right to work in Vietnam is a multi-step process. Ensure you and your employer start this process at least 2 months before your intended start date.
| Step | Description | Estimated Time |
|---|---|---|
| 1. Approval of Demand | Employer applies to DOLISA to hire a foreign worker. | 15-20 days |
| 2. Document Legalization | Legalizing degrees and police checks in home country. | 1-4 weeks |
| 3. Work Permit Application | Submit health check, legalized docs, and photos to DOLISA. | 10-15 days |
| 4. Work Visa Application | Apply for LD1/LD2 Visa using the Work Permit/Exemption. | 5-7 days |
| 5. TRC Application | Convert the LD visa into a Temporary Residence Card (valid 1-2 years). | 5-7 days |
Can I use an eVisa while waiting?
Foreign nationals often enter Vietnam using a 90-day eVisa to secure employment, attend interviews, or prepare documentation. For a walkthrough of that process, see our eVisa application guide. The 90-day eVisa allows entry through 83 designated ports. Once the Work Permit is approved, you generally must exit Vietnam and re-enter using the new LD visa, unless in-country conversion procedures are permitted under specific 2026 immigration circulars. You may apply for the eVisa via the official National Web Portal on Immigration, or apply for a Vietnam eVisa through our service.
Consult with a human resources department or a local legal consultant regarding the latest in-country visa conversion regulations, as policies may be subject to change.