Vietnam: Local Authorities to Now Handle Hanoi-related Immigration Processes

Update June 23, 2026: Hanoi authorities have scaled back an earlier transfer of work permit responsibilities to ward- and commune-level People's Committees which was announced below. As of June 20, 2026 through December 31, 2028, local authorities are responsible only for the reissuance and extension of work permits and work permit exemption certificates, as well as the cancelation of documents that they have issued. New work permit applications and other non-delegated matters will remain under the Hanoi Department of Home Affairs' jurisdiction. Employers should anticipate potential delays due to the transition as local authorities establish procedures for the functions that remain delegated and allow for additional lead time. 

January 26, 2026: The Hanoi Department of Home Affairs (DOHA) has transferred the responsibility of processing steps related to foreign employees working in Hanoi (outside industrial zones and hi-tech parks) to the People’s Committees at the commune/ward level in Hanoi. This includes issuance, re-issuance, extensions and revocations of work permits and work-permit exemption certificates, and receiving employer notifications. Applications will still need to be filed at the one-stop service counter. DOHA will still provide guidance and training to the local authorities and will be responsible for escalated cases.  

As a result of this transfer of authority, applicants and their employees can expect more variation in interpretation of legal rules, the need for more follow ups with local authorities (especially during the implementation period when practices are still being standardized) and potential processing delays during the transition period. The online application system will need to be adjusted to reflect the transfer in authority, which may potentially cause temporary disruptions.  

As a result, applicants may need to factor in longer lead times for work permit-related procedures during this transition. 

This alert is for informational purposes only. If you have any questions, please contact the global immigration professional with whom you work at Fragomen.