Chinese experts coming to Vietnam for short-term assignments — a weeks-long project, technology transfer, staff training — do they need a work permit? Since August 7, 2025, Decree 219/2025/ND-CP has significantly relaxed work permit exemptions. This article clarifies the 90-day threshold businesses must understand.
1. Under 90 Days/Year: NO Work Permit Required
Under Point a, Clause 13, Article 7 of Decree 219/2025/ND-CP, foreign experts, managers, executive directors, and technical workers entering Vietnam to work for a total of under 90 days in one calendar year (January 1 to December 31) are not subject to work permit requirements — with no limit on the number of entries.
Compared to the old rules (Decree 152/2020): previously, exemption applied only for under 30 days and a maximum of 03 entries per year. The new rules are far more flexible for experts making multiple short trips.
2. Still Required: 03-Working-Day Advance Notice
Exemption does not mean no paperwork. Clause 4, Article 9 of Decree 219/2025 requires employers to notify the Ministry of Home Affairs in writing at least 03 working days before the expert starts working. The notice includes the expert’s information, work duration, and job content.
3. 90 Days or More: Work Permit Mandatory
When total working time in the calendar year reaches 90 days or more, the expert must hold a work permit. Businesses should track cumulative days per expert to avoid crossing the threshold without authorization.
4. Relaxed Expert Definition
Decree 219/2025 (Article 3) defines an expert as holding a university degree or higher with at least 02 years of relevant experience — reduced from 03 years. This qualifies more Chinese engineers and technical specialists.
5. E-Visa for Chinese Citizens
Chinese citizens are eligible for electronic visas (e-visa) of up to 90 days, single or multiple entry (Resolution 127/NQ-CP). Note the distinction: e-visa covers entry; work permit/notice covers lawful employment — two independent procedures.
6. Employer Checklist
- Determine total working days per expert in the calendar year.
- Under 90 days → prepare written notice to the Ministry of Home Affairs 03 working days in advance.
- 90 days or more → complete full work permit procedures.
- Verify the expert meets the definition (degree + 02 years’ experience).
- Arrange appropriate entry visa (90-day e-visa).
Note: This article summarizes current regulations for reference. For specific cases, consult a labor law professional.
Transparency: This article was researched and drafted by the AI Legal Council from original legal texts, through independent cross-checking. Content is for reference only and does not replace legal advice from a licensed lawyer.
