Online work-permit application system expected to launch nationwide July 1

IMPACT – MEDIUM

What is the change? The Ministry of Labor, Invalids and Social Affairs has released a draft guidance on an online work-permit application system that it is currently being tested in some provinces.

What does the change mean? The system will be in pilot phase until the end of June and become mandatory for all provinces starting July 1, when it is expected to be centralized in one nationwide portal.

• Implementation time frame: Testing at the provincial level now through June 30, mandatory at the national level starting July 1.
• Visas/permits affected: All work-permit applications and renewals, job position approvals, and work-permit exemption certificates.
• Who is affected: Companies applying for work permits.
• Impact on processing times: Processing times are expected to be shortened to five working days (instead of seven) for work permits, and 10 working days (instead of 15) for job position approvals.
• Business impact: The nationwide online system should improve overall work-permit processing. Companies will need to apply for an online account and create an e-signature.

Background: The current online system is in testing stage and individual provinces vary widely in their implementation. Beginning July 1, an online portal for submitting applications and supporting documents will become mandatory for all provinces. In addition to shortening processing times, the system will allow companies to monitor the progress of their applications and receive notices from authorities on pending applications.

BAL Analysis: The system should improve consistency and efficiency in processing. BAL will continue to update clients on developments and improvements to the online system as they are implemented.

This alert has been provided by the BAL Global Practice group and our network provider located in Vietnam. For additional information, please contact your BAL attorney.

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