Insight Hub
Welcome to our Insight Hub — where we share timely insights, legal updates, and practical guidance for foreigners working and doing business in Vietnam.
From doing business to daily living — this section brings together practical knowledge and timely updates to support you at every stage of your journey in Vietnam.
How to Legally Be an English Teacher in Vietnam (And Where to Start)
By LevelAdvise Legal Team | August 28th, 2025, Ho Chi Minh City
Vietnam remains a top destination for English teachers, attracting expats with its vibrant culture, low cost of living, and growing demand for language education.
If you're planning to teach here, it's important to understand the legal pathway — not just to stay compliant, but also to make your time in Vietnam as smooth and secure as possible.
1. Basic Requirements to Teach in Vietnam
To legally work as an English teacher, you must meet the following criteria::
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A bachelor’s degree (any major)
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A TEFL/TESOL/CELTA certificate (120+ hours recommended)
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A clean criminal background check (home country or Vietnam
💡 Non-native English speakers are also eligible, provided they can demonstrate English proficiency through test scores (e.g., IELTS, TOEFL) or relevant education.
2. Work Permit: Your Legal Foundation
The work permit is issued by the Department of Home Affairs and is a must-have for legal employment in Vietnam.
Required documents:
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Notarized bachelor’s degree
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TEFL/TESOL/CELTA certificate
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Criminal background check
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Health check certificate
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Passport and visa
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Confirmation of previous work experience (3+ years)
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Photos (4x6 cm, 2 items)
Key facts:
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Processing time: 10–15 working day
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Validity: Up to 2 years
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Employer-sponsored: The school or center will typically handle the application
Important: This must be registered correctly in both your Investment Registration Certificate (IRC) and Enterprise Registration Certificate (ERC).
3. Visa Types and the TRC Option
Once you receive your work permit, your employer will help you apply for a visa.
Visa types:
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LD1 visa: For those exempt from the work permit
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LD2 visa: For those holding a valid work permit
These visas are valid for 3 to 12 months and may require visa renewals or runs, depending on your job contract and employer.
What about the TRC?
The Temporary Residence Card (TRC) is a longer-term solution for foreigners working in Vietnam. It's not mandatory but worth considering if:
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You're planning to stay more than 6–12 months
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You want to avoid frequent visa renewals or exits
You need easier access to things like housing, banking, or vehicle registration
ℹ️ You can apply for a TRC after receiving your work permit. Many legal employers support this process, or you can consult a licensed service like Level Advise.
4. Trusted English Centers in Vietnam
While major centers like ILA, Apollo, VUS, Wall Street and British Council are well-known for offering full legal support, many foreign teachers work at smaller or mid-sized centers where legal procedures like work permits or TRCs may need to be handled independently.
Here’s a list of 10 recognized English centers across Vietnam where foreign teachers commonly work:
Center Name Location(s)
Language Link Vietnam Hanoi
AMES English Northern & Central Vietnam
VMG Education (Viet My) Dong Nai, Da Nang, Vung Tau
NES Education Various provinces
DOL English Ho Chi Minh City
AMA (American Academy) Nationwide
Langmaster Hanoi
Aten English Hanoi, Hai Phong, Da Nang
Tieng Anh Nghe Noi (Listening & Speaking English) Ho Chi Minh City
ICAN English Ho Chi Minh City
📌 If you're applying directly to these or similar centers, and you need support with the legal side — like work permits, visa extensions, or a TRC — Level Advise can assist you through the process.
5. Frequently Asked Questions
Can I teach without a degree?
No. A bachelor’s degree is required for the work permit.
Can I teach on a tourist visa?
No. This is illegal and may lead to fines or deportation.
Is the TRC required to teach?
No, but it’s helpful if you want to avoid visa runs and stay longer-term.
Can I switch jobs as a teacher?
Yes, but your new employer must reapply for your work permit and update your visa/TRC.
Final Thoughts
Teaching in Vietnam is a rewarding path — professionally and personally — but only when done legally. The right documentation not only protects you, but also gives you access to a more stable life here.
Whether you're just starting your teaching journey or planning to stay for a few years, it’s worth understanding the difference between a short-term work visa and a longer-term TRC — and choosing what best fits your lifestyle.
📍 Office: 32 Pham Ngoc Thach, Vo Thi Sau Ward, District 3, HCMC
📧 Email: info@leveladvise.com
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