An LD work visa approval letter requires a work permit (LD2) or a written work permit exemption (LD1), an employer registered with form NA16, form NA2 and a passport valid at least six months. The visa lasts up to 2 years but never longer than the work permit. The order that avoids double filings is: labour demand registration, work permit, LD visa, then residence card.
This page covers the labour category (LD). See all categories in Vietnam visa types explained.
Conditions
- The foreigner will work under a Vietnamese labour contract or an internal assignment.
- A work permit has been issued, or a written confirmation of exemption exists — LD2 for permit holders, LD1 for exempt cases.
- The employer is registered as a sponsor (form NA16 on file).
Documents
| Document | Notes |
|---|---|
| Form NA2 | Signed and sealed by the employer |
| Work permit or exemption confirmation | Copy; the remaining validity caps the visa |
| Enterprise registration certificate | Current address after the provincial merger |
| Form NA16 | First-time sponsors or after any change of seal, representative or address |
| Passport bio page | Valid at least six months |
Validity
Up to 2 years, but never longer than the work permit. If the permit expires in eight months, so does the visa. Renew the permit first when both are close to expiry.
Sequence that avoids double filings
- Register the demand for foreign labour
- Obtain the work permit
- Approval letter / visa conversion to LD
- Residence card for the remaining permit period
Filing steps and timing: LD process.
Companies sponsoring foreign staff can hand the whole file to a Vietnam visa agency such as Info Travel to track visa and residence card deadlines and avoid overstay fines. Call Zalo/WhatsApp: +84327828822.
