We have recently observed a recurring question on several expat forums regarding how a foreign doctor can legally practice in Vietnam. In response, we have drafted an article that discusses this topic within the framework of Vietnamese regulations, specifically as it apply to foreign doctor coming to work in Vietnam.
Doctor is belonging to the list of occupations requiring a practising certificate as prescribed by law. It also understanding that a foreign doctor who wants to practice in Vietnam need to fully meeting following requirements:
- Has a Vietnam Medical Practice License remain valid;
- Has obtained registration for practice of medicine;
- Satisfies language proficience requirement in healthcare law;
- Reached health standard.
Foreign doctor will be granted a Vietnam Medical Practice License if she/he fulfilling these conditions:
- Qualification test pass certificate or practicing license which has been accredited by local vietnam authority;
- Work permit issued by a local vietnam authority;
- Criminal records certified by a competent authority as required;
- Vietnamese language proficiency certificate or interpreter document.
Where to start practicing legally in Vietnam? In our opinion, the first step is to obtain an offer letter to work as a doctor from a hopital/clinic in Vietnam. We believe the hopital/clinic will conduct an initial evaluation of the possibility of being granted a practicing certificate for a foreign doctor at a competent authority before making an decision to send an intivation to you
As a foreign doctor, along with, you should prepare the condition mentioned above. We need to stress the points accordingly:
- Secure your offer letter by having a work permit issued by a competent Vietnam authority;
- Check whether your foreign medical practicing license is recognized in Vietnam and completed the recognition procedure in accordance with our regulations. The recognition of medical examination, treatment practice certificates among countries shall comply with the provisions of international agreements or international treaties to which the Socialist Republic of Vietnam is a member. We recommend that you consult from legal experts to assist you in completing this procedure.
- Asking the support from your current medical practice facility for the eighteen (18) month practice as a doctor and must have a written certification of this practice.
- You are expected to learn Vietnamese and achieve recognized fluency. If you do not yet possess fluent Vietnamese language skills, it is necessary to coordinate with a Vietnam healthcare facility to secure a qualified interpreter. We recommend seeking further advice from language education specialists or legal expert to assist you in fulling this requirement.
According to current regulation, The Ministry of Health has the authority to grant the accreditation of foreign practicing license. Furthermore, the provincial Department of Health has the authority to issue medical practice certificates to foreigners who intend to practice medical examination and treatment within Vietnam. This medical practice certificate is issued once, is valid throughout the country, and has a validity of a 5 years term.
Contact us if you need further advice.
Note: This article is for informational purposes only and it is not a legal advice. The content of the article represents its own of TTVN Legal, it subject to change without prior notice.