Brunei

When traveling to Brunei, your nationality and the types of activities you will conduct during your trip will determine whether you may travel lawfully as a business visitor or if work authorization will be required. Please seek advice from your immigration counsel if you are uncertain about the specific types of activities that constitute business or work.

What types of activities may I engage in as a business visitor?

As a business visitor to Brunei, you may engage in the activities below. While this list is not exhaustive and other activities could qualify as business, you may:

• » Attend business meetings
• » Buy goods for sale outside the country
• » Tour a company facility
• » Negotiate contracts

If I qualify as a business visitor, do I need a visa for Brunei?

All foreign nationals are required to obtain a Business Visit Visa (BVV) to conduct business activities in Brunei.

While some select nationalities may be eligible to obtain a visa on arrival and convert to a BVV in country, it is recommended that all business visitors obtain a BVV from a Brunei Embassy or Consulate prior to travel.

What types of activities require work authorization?

The activities below, whether paid or unpaid, generally constitute work under Brunei law. This list is not exhaustive, and many other professional activities are considered work in Brunei, even if conducted for a short duration.

• » Providing technical training
• » Repairs and maintenance
• » Consulting

 
However, Brunei offers a Professional Visit Visa (PVV) which permits foreign nationals to engage in short-term professional activities. Generally, the PVV is granted to professionals invited by a company in Brunei that requires their expertise to provide training, give seminars, and offer consultation services. Please consult with your immigration provider prior to travel to determine your eligibility for a PVV.

If I am traveling to Brunei for work, what type of work authorization do I need?

The requirements for work authorization depend on your qualifications, on the nature and duration of your work, and on whether your employer has an entity in Brunei. The most common types of work authorization for Brunei are:

• » Special Authorization Work Pass (short-term work authorization for employees working in the oil and gas, IT, and construction industries)
• » Employment Pass (long-term work authorization)

Is it possible to be exempted from work authorization requirements?

There are no exemptions to long-term work authorization requirements in Brunei.

Inevitably, the legal and strategic considerations impacting visa selection, as well as visa waiver and work authorization eligibility, entail the careful consideration of many factors. We recommend that you consult with your immigration counsel before taking any course of action.

Copyright © 2022 Berry Appleman & Leiden LLP. Government immigration agencies often change their policies and practices without notice; please consult an immigration professional for up-to-date information. This document does not constitute legal advice or create an attorney-client relationship. BAL maintains comprehensive immigration information and processing specifics for our clients.