10/12/2024
The process of getting a work permit for Foreign English Teachers in Vietnam 2024
Teaching English in Vietnam as a foreigner requires a valid work permit, which is essential to legally work at a language center. The process involves multiple steps, documentation, and collaboration between the applicant and the employer. Here’s an overview of the key steps:
1. Eligibility Requirements
Foreigners who wish to teach English in Vietnam must meet specific eligibility requirements:
• Educational Qualification: A bachelor’s degree or higher in any field, though a degree in English or education is preferred.
• Teaching Certification: A recognized TEFL, TESOL, or CELTA certification (120 hours).
• Criminal Background Check: A clean criminal record, typically from the applicant's home country or most recent residence.
• Health Check: A health certificate issued by an accredited hospital or clinic in Vietnam within the last 12 months.
2. Securing a Job Offer
Before applying for a work permit, you must have a job offer from a Vietnamese language center. The employer will sponsor your work permit and assist with many aspects of the application process.
3. Gathering Necessary Documentation
You’ll need to prepare the following documents:
• Passport and Visa: A valid passport and visa copy (often a business or tourist visa, which can later be converted).
• Degree and Teaching Certification: Notarized copies of your bachelor’s degree and TEFL/TESOL certificate.
• Criminal Background Check: A background check from your home country or recent residence, notarized and consularized.
• Health Certificate: A medical certificate issued by a Vietnamese hospital within the last year.
4. Labor Department Approval Process
The employer must seek permission from the Department of Labor, Invalids, and Social Affairs (DoLISA) to hire a foreign worker:
• Job Posting Requirement: The employer must post the job publicly for 15 days to prove there are no qualified Vietnamese candidates.
• Justification for Hiring a Foreigner: After the posting period, the employer must provide a justification for hiring a foreigner over a Vietnamese candidate.
• Approval Application: The employer then submits a written request to the local People’s Committee, explaining the hiring need and requesting permission to employ a foreigner.
5. Submitting the Work Permit Application
With approval from the People’s Committee, the employer can submit the work permit application at the local DoLISA office, including:
• All gathered documents.
• A completed application form.
• Approval from the People’s Committee.
• The employer’s business registration details.
6. Processing and Approval
Processing typically takes 7-15 working days. Once approved, you will receive a work permit, allowing you to work legally as an English teacher in Vietnam.
Tư Vấn Di Trú Toàn Cầu PGA
