On 7 August 2025, the Government of Vietnam issued Decree No. 219/2025/ND-CP on foreign workers working in Vietnam (“Decree 219”). Building on recent administrative reforms and addressing gaps identified in the implementation of the former Decree No. 152/2020/ND-CP (“Decree 152”), Decree 219 introduces notable changes to the rules on issuing work permits and certifying exemptions for foreign workers, particularly regarding timelines, application dossiers, and competent authorities.

Decree 219 vs. Decree 152: What’s Changed?

1. Online Processing of Applications

Article 6 of Decree 219 expressly allows employers to submit applications for the issuance, re-issuance, or extension of work permits and exemption certifications via the National Public Service Portal. Dossiers will be transferred to competent authorities through a “one-stop shop” mechanism, enabling streamlined processing and allowing simultaneous handling of related documents, such as judicial record certificates.

2. More Exemptions for Priority Sectors

Article 7.15 of Decree 219 adds a new exemption category for foreign workers confirmed by relevant ministries, ministerial-level agencies, or provincial People’s Committees to work in finance, science, technology, innovation, national digital transformation, or other locally prioritised socio-economic sectors. This measure aims to attract highly skilled professionals by easing entry requirements.

3. New Deadlines & Procedures for Work Permit Issuance and Exemptions

• Where to Apply: All applications must go to the Public Administrative Service Center in the province where the employee will work. You can submit in person, by mail, or through a representative.

• New Application Window: There is now a strict timeframe for submissions. You must apply between 10 and 60 days before the employee’s intended start date. Applying earlier or later will not be accepted.

• Faster Response Times:
  – Approval: The certificate will be issued within 5 working days.
  – Refusal: A written explanation will be provided within 3 working days.

4. Renewals, Replacements, and Limits

Articles 11–17 introduce detailed provisions on re-issuance and extension, covering:

• Circumstances for re-issuance (e.g., loss, damage, changes in personal or employer details);
• Dossier requirements for each case of re-issuance;
• Processing timelines (generally 3 to 5 working days); and
• Limits on extensions (only 1 permitted, for up to 2 years).

5. New Evidence Standards for Eligibility

Article 19 specifies acceptable proof of eligibility for managers, executive directors, experts, and technical workers, such as corporate charters, appointment decisions, professional qualifications, confirmations of work experience, or sector-specific licences. Certain categories may rely on an existing valid work permit or exemption certification in lieu of experience documents.

6. New Rules for Revoking Exemption Certificates

Articles 32 to 33 introduce explicit grounds for revocation, including working outside the certified scope, termination of assignment, closure of the employer’s business, procedural violations, or criminal prosecution. Employers must return certifications within 15 days of expiry or upon request, with notice sent to the Immigration Department for coordination.

Key Take-Aways for Employers

Effective immediately upon promulgation, Decree 219 significantly modernises Vietnam’s regulatory framework for foreign workers. It enhances procedural clarity, digitises application processes, expands exemptions for high-skilled professionals, and introduces detailed provisions for re-issuance, extension, and revocation of certifications.

Employers should promptly review their current and planned foreign workforce arrangements to ensure compliance with the new timelines, documentation, and procedural requirements — and take advantage of the broader exemption categories where possible.

For further information on Decree 219 or other labour-related matters in Vietnam, please contact DFDL.

The information provided here is for information purposes only and is not intended to constitute legal advice. Legal advice should be obtained from qualified legal counsel for all specific situations.