Online work permit system becomes mandatory

IMPACT – MEDIUM

What is the change? The online work permit application system that piloted in April will become mandatory July 1, starting in Hanoi and then in other provinces in coming weeks.

What does the change mean? Under the new system, applicants must apply for work permits on the government’s online portal and must use an e-signature authenticated by the company’s authorized signatory.

• Implementation time frame: July 1, in  Hanoi. Dates are yet to be confirmed for other provinces.
• Visas/permits affected: Job position approvals, work permits, work permits renewals, work permit exemptions.
• Who is affected: Companies applying for work permits in July and thereafter.
• Impact on processing times: Processing times are expected to be shortened from seven working days to five for work permits, and from 15 working days to 10 for job position approvals.
• Next steps: Companies should apply for an online account and e-signature if they have not already.

Background: The system, which is intended to streamline processes, was piloted in several provinces in April with the target date of July 1 for nationwide implementation.

BAL Analysis: The online process should improve the overall timelines and application procedures, although there may be some initial delays during the transition. For the time being, the Ministry of Labour, Invalids and Social Affairs is requiring applicants to produce original copies of supporting documents, which will be checked against the electronic copies submitted online, before they may collect their permits.

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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