Under the 2019 Labor Code of Vietnam, foreign employees are only permitted to work in Vietnam if they hold a valid work permit or an official confirmation of work permit exemption. Any violation of this requirement will be subject to strict penalties under Decree No. 12/2022/NĐ-CP.
This article outlines the legal consequences for foreign workers and employers, helping businesses ensure full compliance with Vietnam’s labor regulations
I. Penalties for Foreign Workers Working Illegally in Vietnam
Foreign nationals working in Vietnam without proper authorization may face severe administrative sanctions.
1. Monetary Fines for Foreign Workers
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VND 15,000,000 – 25,000,000
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Based on the severity and duration of illegal employment
2. Deportation and Re-entry Ban
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Foreign workers may be deported from Vietnam
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A re-entry ban of up to 3 years may apply
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This can significantly affect long-term employment and residency opportunities
II. Employer Penalties for Hiring Foreign Workers Without Work Permits
Employers who hire foreign workers without ensuring legal compliance are also subject to penalties under Decree No. 12/2022/NĐ-CP.
1. Monetary Fines for Employers
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Individuals: VND 30,000,000 – 75,000,000
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Organizations: VND 60,000,000 – 150,000,000
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Higher penalties may apply for repeat or large-scale violations
2. Additional Legal Measures
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Partial or full business suspension
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Compensation for damages affecting:
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Vietnamese employees
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Workplace safety or labor security
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III. Why Compliance With Vietnam Work Permit Regulations Matters
Ensuring compliance with Vietnam’s foreign labor regulations helps businesses:
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Avoid legal and financial risks
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Maintain operational continuity
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Build a transparent and sustainable workforce
Regular compliance reviews are especially important for companies hiring expatriates or expanding operations in Vietnam.
IV. How Metasource Supports Foreign Labor Compliance in Vietnam
If your business requires support with:
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Work permit consultation and eligibility checks
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Preparation and submission of legal documents
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Monitoring and follow-up of approval processes
Metasource provides end-to-end support to help companies stay compliant with Vietnam’s foreign labor regulations—efficiently and confidently.
