The Vietnamese government has issued Decree No. 219/2025/NĐ-CP, which introduces major changes to the regulations concerning foreign labor in the country, replacing Decree No. 152/2020/NĐ-CP and Decree No. 70/2023/NĐ-CP.

The new decree simplifies administrative procedures, shortens processing times, and notably expands the list of individuals exempt from work permits. This reform is part of Vietnam’s strategy to attract high-quality talent in emerging industries such as semiconductors, artificial intelligence, and digital transformation.

Under the new regulations, competent authorities must process complete work permit applications within 10 business days. If the application is rejected, a written explanation must be provided within 3 working days.

The provincial People’s Committees will remain the primary authority for issuing, renewing, extending, and revoking work permits, as well as granting confirmations of exemption for workers employed at businesses based in their jurisdictions.

For workers employed by companies operating across multiple provinces, the People’s Committee where the company’s headquarters is located will be responsible for work permit administration.

A notable amendment in Decree 219 is the broader eligibility for work permit exemption. Newly included are foreign workers invited or confirmed by central ministries or provincial authorities to work in prioritized sectors such as finance, science, technology, innovation, national digital transformation, and socioeconomic development.

Decree 219 also retains several existing exemptions, including:

Investors contributing capital of at least VND 3 billion (approx. USD 118,000)
Foreign journalists certified by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs
Teachers or administrators at intergovernmental educational institutions
Family members of diplomatic personnel
Individuals responsible for establishing a commercial presence in Vietnam

Additionally, foreign experts providing technical or professional consultancy, or performing tasks related to ODA-funded projects (research, assessment, monitoring, or management), remain exempt from work permits - further facilitating foreign investment and cooperation.

Decree No. 219 officially came into effect on August 7, 2025.

PV