Vietnam to Permit Foreign Students to Work Part-Time for the First Time

In a groundbreaking move to make its education sector more globally competitive, Vietnam is considering allowing foreign students to work part-time during their studies for the first time.

The Ministry of Education and Training has submitted a draft resolution to the National Assembly that would permit international students to work up to 20 hours per week during academic terms. This aligns Vietnam’s policy with international standards followed in countries like Australia, the UK, and New Zealand.

Currently, foreign students in Vietnam are not granted any legal provision for employment. The proposed reform aims to promote fairness and enhance the nation’s attractiveness as a higher education destination.

According to the Ministry, around 22,000 international students were enrolled in Vietnam by the end of 2024 — the highest in nearly a decade. Approximately 80% of these students come from neighboring countries such as Laos and Cambodia.

Alongside the student work proposal, the Ministry has also suggested granting five-year visas and work permit exemptions to foreign experts and scientists, particularly those with doctoral qualifications, working at Vietnamese universities and colleges.

This new policy is expected to:

• Support international students by easing financial constraints.
• Encourage global talent mobility and cross-cultural exchange.
• Strengthen Vietnam’s position as a regional education hub.

If approved, this initiative will mark a significant milestone in Vietnam’s journey toward building a more inclusive, student-friendly education system with global standards.

Source: VNExpress International