On September 5, 2013, the Government of Viet Nam has promulgated decree No. 102/2013/NĐ-CP, stipulating new rules on foreign nationals working in the country.
Employers have to submit an annual 'foreign labour demand report', stating their demand for work for which qualified Vietnamese workers cannot be found, to the provincial People's Committee, which will have to issue a written approval for each position. This approval must then be submitted along with the work permit application.
The measure also includes a liberaling component. The categories of foreign workers eligible for work permits has been expanded. Apart from managers, executive officers, and experts, technicians can newly also apply for work permits.