How to get a work visa for teaching English in Vietnam

Vietnam is one of the most popular countries in Asia for teaching English — and it’s easy to see why. With high demand for teachers, a low cost of living, and a vibrant culture, it’s a natural draw for people looking to live and work abroad.

But before you book that flight and accept a job offer, there’s one thing you can’t afford to skip: your work visa and permit. Without it, you’re working illegally — and that comes with serious risks, from visa fines to deportation.

The good news? The process isn’t complicated, especially if you’re working with a legitimate school. This guide explains exactly how to get a legal work visa to teach English in Vietnam — from the documents you need, to how the process works step-by-step.

Whether you’re applying from abroad or already in Vietnam on a tourist visa, here’s how to get everything sorted — the right way.

🛂 Understanding Vietnam's Work Visa Types

Vietnam issues two primary work visa categories for foreign workers:

• LD1 Visa: For foreigners working in Vietnam who are exempt from a work permit. This typically applies to high-level professionals transferred internally or those with work permit exemption approval (rare for ESL teachers).
• LD2 Visa: For foreigners who require a work permit to legally work in Vietnam.

As an English teacher, you’ll almost certainly fall under the LD2 visa category, which means you must first obtain a valid work permit. Once you have that, your employer will help you convert your status to the LD2 visa or apply for it on your behalf.

⚠️ Important: Teaching without a work permit and LD visa is illegal. Even if some schools suggest working under the table on a tourist visa, it puts you at risk for fines, blacklisting, and deportation.

✅ Eligibility Criteria for English Teachers

To qualify for a work permit and LD2 visa, you must meet the following criteria:

• Be at least 18 years old
  You must be a legal adult under Vietnamese labor law.

• Possess a clean criminal record
  A national-level background check from your home country (or most recent country of residence) is required. This must be issued within 6 months of submission and notarized/legalized.

• Hold a bachelor's degree or higher
  Your degree can be in any field, but it must be issued by an accredited institution and legalized for use in Vietnam.

• Have a TEFL/TESOL/CELTA certificate (minimum 120 hours)
  This is mandatory unless you hold a teaching license or have 5+ years of documented teaching experience. Online TEFLs are accepted but may be scrutinized.

• Be in good health, confirmed by a medical examination
  You'll need to complete a medical checkup in Vietnam at an approved hospital or clinic. The certificate is required for both the work permit and visa.

ℹ️ Non-native English speakers: If you're from a country where English is not the official language, you may also need to submit a recognized English proficiency certificate (e.g., IELTS 6.5+, TOEFL iBT 100+), especially if your university degree was not taught in English.

📄 Required Documents

To apply for a work permit and LD2 visa in Vietnam, you’ll need to prepare and submit the following documents:

1. Valid Passport

   • Must have at least 6 months’ validity from the date of entry.
   • At least 2 blank visa pages.

2. Bachelor's Degree

   • A degree in any subject is generally accepted.
   • Must be legalized in your home country and then notarized in Vietnam.

3. TEFL/TESOL/CELTA Certificate

   • Minimum 120 hours.
   • Should be legalized and notarized like your degree.

4. Criminal Background Check

   • Must be issued within the last 6 months.
   • Should be a national-level check (e.g., FBI check for the U.S.).
   • Requires legalization and notarization for use in Vietnam.

5. Medical Certificate

   • Completed at an approved Vietnamese hospital or clinic.
   • Valid for 12 months from the date of issue.

6. Passport-sized Photos

   • Usually 4x6 cm, with a white background.
   • Bring several copies for both the work permit and visa application.

7. Employment Contract

   • Signed with a Vietnamese school, language center, or company.
   • Your employer will typically assist in submitting this with the application.

📌 Important: All foreign-issued documents must be translated into Vietnamese, notarized locally, and sometimes authenticated by the Vietnamese embassy in your home country before submission.

📝 Application Process

Here’s a step-by-step breakdown of how to legally obtain a work visa (LD2) to teach English in Vietnam:

1. Job Offer

   • Secure a position with a licensed Vietnamese employer (school, language center, etc.).
   • They must be registered to sponsor foreign workers.

2. Work Permit Application

   • Your employer submits your documents to the Department of Labor, Invalids and Social Affairs (DoLISA).
   • Documents include your degree, TEFL certificate, background check, medical exam, and employment contract.
   • Processing time: Usually 10–15 business days.

3. Visa Approval Letter

   • After your work permit is approved, your employer applies to the Vietnam Immigration Department for a visa approval letter.
   • This letter allows you to obtain the LD2 visa.

4. Visa Stamping

   • You can get your LD2 visa at a Vietnamese embassy/consulate abroad or on arrival (if eligible) by showing your approval letter.
   • Visa duration typically matches your employment contract, up to 12 months (renewable).

🔄 Note: If you're already in Vietnam on a tourist or business visa, you can often convert to a work visa without leaving the country, depending on current immigration rules and your employer's support.

⏱️ Processing Time & Fees

Understanding the timeline and cost breakdown is essential for planning your move:

Processing Times:

• Work Permit: ~15 working days once all documents are submitted to the Department of Labor.
• Visa Approval Letter: ~5–7 working days after the work permit is approved.
• Visa Stamping: Can be done on arrival or at a consulate in your home country within 1–3 days.

Estimated Costs:

• Work Permit: $100–$150 USD (varies by province and employer).
• Visa Stamping Fee:
  • Single-entry (1–3 months): ~$25 USD
  • Multiple-entry (up to 12 months): ~$50–$135 USD

💡 Pro Tip: Many reputable schools and agencies will pay for or reimburse these fees — be sure to clarify this in your contract before accepting a position.

🔄 Renewals & Extensions

Staying in Vietnam long-term? Here's what you need to know about keeping your legal status up to date:

Work Permit:

• Validity: Up to 2 years.
• Renewal: Possible, but must be initiated before expiration.
• Process: Similar to the original application — updated medical check, background check, and employer documentation may be required.

Visa (LD2):

• Tied to Your Work Permit: Your visa duration typically mirrors your work permit.
• Extension: Requires your employer to sponsor and submit the renewal request to immigration.

📅 Start Early: Begin the renewal process at least 30 days before expiration to prevent any disruptions to your employment or legal stay.

⚠️ Common Pitfalls to Avoid

Avoid these common mistakes that can jeopardize your teaching job or legal status:

• Incomplete Documentation: Missing notarizations, outdated certificates, or improper translations can delay your application.
• Working on a Tourist Visa: It’s illegal and risky. Even if a school offers to sponsor you “later,” always secure a proper work visa before starting.
• Late Renewals: Don’t wait until the last minute. Visa and work permit extensions take time — start at least 30 days in advance to avoid fines or visa overstay issues.

🌟 Conclusion: Navigating the Legal Path

Securing a work visa and permit is a critical step in your journey to teach English in Vietnam. It not only ensures legal compliance but also gives you peace of mind and access to long-term opportunities.

By understanding the requirements, preparing your documents, and working with a trustworthy employer, you can enjoy a smooth and rewarding teaching experience in Vietnam.

For the most accurate and up-to-date information, always consult with your employer and refer to official Vietnamese government resources.