Vietnam province cautions employers over illegal foreign workers after dozens of violations

Authorities in the southern province of Dong Nai have issued a stern warning to local businesses and residents following the discovery of 88 foreign nationals violating immigration and residency laws during a series of recent inspections. Since January, provincial police have ramped up campaigns to combat illegal entry and employment, revealing a growing trend of individuals and organizations attempting to bypass Vietnam’s labor regulations.

The majority of these cases involve foreigners working without proper documentation. In one notable raid on January 9, police discovered 50 foreign nationals working illegally at two separate companies in Binh Minh Commune and Phuoc Tan Ward. Subsequent inspections throughout January and February uncovered dozens more individuals employed by various firms, household businesses, and construction sites without valid work permits or residency cards.

Investigations have also exposed sophisticated methods used to circumvent the law. On February 19, authorities in Bien Hoa detected a scheme involving two Ho Chi Minh City-based companies that sponsored foreign nationals for "investor" residency cards. It was later revealed that these individuals were not genuine investors but had used intermediaries to obtain the cards simply to remain in the country for work.

Local officials noted that the increase in violations coincides with Vietnam's recent policy extending electronic visas to 90 days. While designed to boost tourism, the policy has been exploited by some who enter as visitors and then seek unauthorized employment. Other violators were found to have entered the country illegally through border provinces before traveling to Dong Nai, a major industrial hub, in search of jobs.

The consequences for these violations are severe. The Immigration Management Division has initiated administrative fines and the expulsion of those found in breach of the law, accompanied by a three-year ban on re-entering Vietnam. Authorities are also preparing legal proceedings against the organizations and intermediaries that facilitated the illegal stays.

Provincial police are urging all employers to verify passports, visas, and work permits meticulously before hiring foreign staff. They have called on the public to report any suspected cases of illegal residence or employment to the nearest police station to help maintain regional security and uphold the integrity of the national labor market.