Work & Business

No, if you work remotely for a foreign (non-Vietnamese) company and are paid abroad. Vietnamese work permits are only required for those employed by Vietnamese-registered entities. Most digital nomads and remote workers operate on a 90-day e-visa without a work permit. However, if you are contracted by a Vietnamese company or doing business that involves Vietnamese customers or revenue, the legal picture becomes more complex.

LinkedIn is the most effective platform for professional roles, particularly in HCMC. VietnamWorks and Navigos Search are the leading local job platforms. For teaching, reach out directly to international schools and language centers. Many expats also find opportunities through Facebook expat groups and personal networking. Note that local salaries are lower than Western equivalents - expat packages typically include housing allowance or provided accommodation for senior roles.

The work permit process takes 15–30 working days from start to finish, depending on how quickly your employer and you can gather the required documents. The most time-consuming part is getting degree certificates apostilled in your home country and obtaining a police clearance certificate (usually 2–4 weeks). Plan ahead - start the process before you arrive if possible.

Yes. Foreigners can own 100% of most types of business in Vietnam. The most common structure is a Limited Liability Company (LLC). Registration takes 2–4 weeks and costs $500–$1,500 with a local agent. As a registered business owner with investment capital, you can apply for a long-stay investor TRC instead of cycling through e-visas. Some sectors (media, real estate, transportation) have restrictions on foreign ownership percentages.

Teaching at language centers: $1,200–$2,500/month; international school teachers: $2,500–$5,000/month. Tech roles at startups or multinationals: $2,000–$5,000/month. Management in manufacturing/logistics: $3,000–$6,000/month. NGO/UN roles: $2,500–$6,000/month. Note that these are local salaries; many expats are employed by foreign companies at their home-country pay rates, which is the most financially advantageous arrangement.