Common Paperwork Mistakes That Delay Your Teaching Job in Vietnam

Vietnam is a growing destination for foreign teachers thanks to its vibrant culture, affordable living costs, and strong demand for English education. However, many teachers face unexpected delays before they can officially start working. The main reason? Paperwork mistakes. Even small errors in your documents can lead to weeks of waiting, additional costs, or even visa denial. This guide highlights the most common mistakes and how to avoid them.

1. Submitting an Expired or Invalid Passport

Your passport is the first thing immigration checks.

• Mistake: Submitting a passport with less than 6 months validity left.
• Solution: Renew your passport before applying for a visa or work permit to avoid rejection.
   

2. Missing or Incorrect Sponsorship Letter

A sponsorship letter from your employer is required for work visa or TRC applications.

• Mistake: Providing an unsigned, outdated, or missing sponsorship letter.
• Solution: Confirm with your school/agency that the letter is up-to-date and stamped correctly.
   

3. Incomplete Application Forms

Vietnamese immigration requires specific forms (NA2, NA5, NA6, NA8, etc.).

• Mistake: Leaving blank sections or filling in details incorrectly.
• Solution: Ask your HR department to guide you or double-check every detail before submission.
   

4. Forgetting the Police Registration Paper

Every foreigner in Vietnam must have a temporary residence registration from the local police.

• Mistake: Skipping this step or failing to provide a copy when applying for a visa extension or TRC.
• Solution: Request your landlord or school to register your residence and keep the confirmation slip.
   

5. Employer Documents Not Ready

Your employer must provide additional documents such as the business license, tax code certificate, and employment agreement / work contract.

• Mistake: Starting the application before your sponsor prepares these papers.
• Solution: Coordinate with your HR team early to make sure all supporting company documents are ready.
   

6. Using the Wrong Visa Type

Choosing the wrong visa (Tourist, Business, or Working Visa) can cause delays in converting to the correct status.

• Mistake: Entering Vietnam on a tourist visa and expecting to start work immediately.
• Solution: Apply for the appropriate visa type that matches your teaching contract.

Paperwork mistakes are one of the biggest reasons foreign teachers face delays in Vietnam. From expired passports to incomplete sponsorship documents, even minor errors can hold back your teaching career. By double-checking requirements, working closely with your employer, and staying organized, you’ll avoid unnecessary stress and start teaching on time.