VIETNAM LABOR LAW: OCCUPATIONS PROHIBITED FROM LABOR EXPORT 2025

In the context of deep international integration, labor export has become one of Vietnam’s key strategies for socio-economic development. However, to ensure the rights of workers and comply with both international and domestic legal regulations, the Vietnamese Government has issued specific rules prohibiting labor export in certain occupations. 

I. LEGAL BASIS FOR BANNING LABOR EXPORT IN CERTAIN OCCUPATIONS

1.1. Law on Vietnamese Workers Working Abroad under Contract

Law No. 72/2006/QH11 (amended and supplemented by Law No. 69/2020/QH14) specifies prohibited acts, including sending workers abroad in banned occupations.

1.2. Implementing Decree

Decree No. 112/2021/ND-CP details certain provisions of the Law on Vietnamese Workers Working Abroad, including a list of occupations banned from labor export.

1.3. Joint Circulars and Other Guiding Documents

In addition to laws and decrees, joint circulars issued by the Ministry of Labor, Invalids and Social Affairs (MOLISA) and relevant ministries provide detailed guidance on the implementation of these regulations.

II. LIST OF OCCUPATIONS PROHIBITED FROM LABOR EXPORT

2.1. Occupations Violating Social Morality and Cultural Values

Jobs related to prostitution, pornography, or any form of sexual exploitation are strictly prohibited for Vietnamese workers abroad.

Specifically:

• Pornographic film actors.

• Nude models for inappropriate entertainment shows.

• Service workers in karaoke bars and nightclubs with sexual elements.

2.2. Occupations Violating International Law or Vietnam’s Commitments

Vietnam does not allow workers to engage in jobs banned under international conventions on human rights and labor rights, particularly those set by the International Labor Organization (ILO).

Specifically:

• Mercenaries or members of foreign military forces.

• Hunters of endangered wildlife listed under conservation protocols.

• Jobs involving human trafficking, organ trade, or unethical biomedical experimentation.

2.3. Occupations with Hazardous or Toxic Working Conditions

High-risk jobs such as deep mining, handling toxic chemicals, working in radioactive environments, or deep-sea diving are banned due to safety concerns.

Specifically:

• Miners working below standard safety depths.

• Workers in chemical plants producing hazardous substances like cyanide or asbestos.

• Divers working at depths exceeding safe limits (>30 meters), especially without internationally certified safety equipment.

2.4. Occupations Prone to Labor Exploitation and Abuse

Jobs such as domestic helpers or caregivers in countries lacking labor protection systems are subject to restrictions or outright bans depending on bilateral agreements.

Specifically:

• Domestic helpers in some Middle Eastern countries (depending on bilateral agreements).

• Elderly caregivers without clear contracts or rest periods.

• Nannies working in private homes without monitoring mechanisms.

2.5. Occupations Prohibited or Restricted by Host Countries

If a host country does not allow foreigners to work in specific jobs, Vietnam is also not permitted to send workers for those occupations.

Specifically:

• Some countries prohibit foreign workers from driving domestic transport vehicles.

• Foreign doctors or nurses are banned from practicing without equivalent local licenses.

• Foreigners may be barred from running sole proprietorship in host countries.

III. REASONS FOR BANNING LABOR EXPORT IN CERTAIN OCCUPATIONS

3.1. Protecting Workers’ Dignity and Rights

Some occupations carry high risks of sexual exploitation, domestic violence, or forced labor, especially for female workers, which can cause both physical and mental harm.

3.2. Upholding National Image and Legal Compliance

Exporting labor for prohibited occupations may tarnish Vietnam’s international reputation and breach treaties that the country has signed.

3.3. Reducing Legal Risks and Workplace Accidents

Hazardous or unsafe jobs, or those involving forced labor, may lead to serious accidents and fatalities, causing significant social and financial costs.

IV. IMPACTS OF THE PROHIBITION POLICY ON WORKERS AND ENTERPRISES

4.1. Impact on Workers

While the ban protects workers’ rights and dignity, it also limits overseas job opportunities for low-skilled or less-educated workers.

4.2. Impact on Labor Export Enterprises

Enterprises must adjust their recruitment and training strategies, shifting toward legal and more stable occupations. This also helps enhance their reputation and service quality.

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Banning labor export in certain occupations reflects the state’s responsibility to protect the rights of workers and safeguard Vietnam’s international image. However, effective implementation of this policy requires synchronized coordination between government agencies, businesses, and the workers themselves.