With increasing international integration, many companies in Vietnam employ foreign workers, including those who are married to Vietnamese citizens. A common question arises: Do these foreign workers need to apply for a work permit? What procedures are required? Let’s explore the latest regulations with Vietnamworkpermit.vn.

1. Legal Basis

Based on:

• The 2019 Labor Code
• Decree 219/2025/NĐ-CP (detailed regulations on foreign workers in Vietnam)
• Relevant guidance documents issued by the Ministry of Labor, Invalids, and Social Affairs

2. Do Foreigners Married to Vietnamese Citizens Need a Work Permit?

Previously, under Decree 152/2020/NĐ-CP, foreigners married to Vietnamese citizens had to apply for a Work Permit Exemption Certificate.

However, with the enforcement of Decree 219/2025/NĐ-CP, this has changed:

• Foreigners married to Vietnamese citizens are now fully exempted from applying for a Work Permit Exemption Certificate.
• Employers only need to notify the competent authority.

👉 This new regulation reduces administrative procedures, making it easier for both employers and employees.

3. What Procedures Must Employers Follow?

3.1. Required Documents for Notification:

• Notification letter (including full name, date of birth, nationality, passport number, employer’s details, workplace, and contract duration).
• Valid passport and visa of the foreign employee.
• Copy of the company’s business registration/license.
• Copy of the marriage certificate with a Vietnamese citizen.

3.2. Where to Submit:

Department of Home Affairs at the provincial level where the foreign employee is expected to work.

3.3. Deadline for Submission:

Employers must submit the notification at least 03 working days before the foreign employee starts working.

4. Penalties for Non-Compliance

If an employer hires a foreigner married to a Vietnamese citizen without notifying the authorities, they may face administrative penalties under Decree 12/2022/NĐ-CP on labor violations.

👉 Fines range from VND 5,000,000 to VND 75,000,000, depending on the severity of the violation.

5. Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can foreigners married to Vietnamese citizens work at any company?
✅ Yes. They can work at any legal enterprise or organization in Vietnam, as long as the employer completes the notification procedure.

2. What if the marriage has not been officially registered in Vietnam?
❌ No exemption applies. A legal marriage certificate registered in Vietnam, or officially recognized by Vietnamese authorities, is required.

3. Is a cohabitation certificate (proof of living together as husband and wife) sufficient?
❌ No. Only a legally registered marriage certificate is valid.

4. How soon can the foreigner start working after notification?
✅ The foreign employee can start working after the date stated in the employer’s notification (at least 03 days before the start date).

6. Conclusion

Foreigners married to Vietnamese citizens are exempt from obtaining a work permit. However, employers must still submit a notification to the provincial Department of Home Affairs before the employee begins work.

✅ Understanding and complying with these regulations not only protects employers from legal risks but also safeguards the legitimate rights of foreign workers.

👉 For detailed consultation or full support with procedures related to work permits, Vietnam visas, or temporary residence cards, please contact us via Hotline: 0868 25 75 32 for direct assistance.