If you’re planning on living or working in Vietnam for an extended period, you’ll likely need to obtain a Health Check Certificate. This certificate is necessary to obtain a work permit or apply for a long-term visa in Vietnam. Not sure where to start? Don’t worry; we’ve got you covered. In this article, we’ll provide you with a comprehensive guide on how to obtain a Health Check Certificate in Vietnam (update 2023).
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Understanding the Health Check Certificate in Vietnam
The Health Check Certificate is a document issued by the Vietnamese government that certifies that you are free from the following contagious diseases:
- Tuberculosis (TB)
- Leprosy
- HIV/AIDS
- Drug addiction
- Mental illness
The certificate is valid for one year from the date of issue and must be obtained before applying for a work permit or long-term visa in Vietnam.
Purpose of the Health Check Certificate
The Health Check Certificate plays a crucial role in ensuring public health and safety in Vietnam. The Vietnamese government takes the spread of infectious diseases very seriously and has implemented strict measures to prevent outbreaks. The Health Check Certificate is one such measure that helps to identify and isolate individuals who may be carriers of contagious diseases, thereby preventing the spread of infection to others.
What are the requirements of a Vietnam work permit health check?
A work permit is an official certificate issued by the Ministry of Labor, Invalids, and social Affairs (moLISA). It is valid for a period of up to 3 years.
The general requirements for being granted a Vietnam work permit are as follows:
- You are at least 18 years of age;
- Have qualifications and occupational skills which are suitable to the work requirements;
- Are in good enough health to satisfy the job requirements;
- Are not a criminal or has been prosecuted for criminal liability in accordance with the law of Vietnam and foreign law.
For point 3, you are required to go for a series of medical examinations at a licensed medical establishment listed in the Ministry of Health’s Medical Services Administration’s Official Letter 143/KCB-PHCN&GD and provide your company with a work permit health check (medical certificate).
This certificate confirms that you are in good enough health to satisfy the job requirements.
Who Needs a Health Check Certificate?
If you’re planning on working or living in Vietnam for more than six months, you’ll need to obtain a Health Check Certificate. This includes both foreign employees and long-term visitors.
The Health Check Certificate is mandatory for anyone who wishes to apply for a work permit or long-term visa in Vietnam. Without this certificate, your application will not be processed, and you will not be able to legally work or reside in the country.
It’s important to note that the Health Check Certificate is not just a formality. The Vietnamese government takes the health and safety of its citizens very seriously, and the certificate is an essential tool in preventing the spread of infectious diseases.
Where to Obtain a Health Check Certificate
Ho Chi Minh City
| Provider Name | Time to complete | Price | Time to receive results | Have English-speaking staff? |
| Vigor Health Clinic | From 1.5 hours | 1,800,000 | 2 days or less | Yes |
| FV Hospital | From 2 hours | 3,230,000 – 3,480,000 | Same day or next day | Yes |
| City International Hospital | From 2 hours | 2,100,000 | 2 days or less | Yes |
| Hoan My Hospital Tan Binh | From 2 hours | 2,593,000 – 2,770,000 | Same day or next day | Yes |
| Nhan Hau Clinic | From 30 minutes | 1,260,000 | Next day | Yes |
| Tan Hung Hospital | From 2 hours | 800,000 – 900,000 | Same day or next day | Translator fee: 200,000 |
| Hong Duc Hospital | From 2 hours | From 600,000 | From 2 days | No |
| Thanh Chan Clinic | From 1 hour | From 1,000,000 | Same day or next day | Additional translator fee |
| Cho Ray Hospital (public) | From 2 hours | 2,000,000 – 2,500,000 | 4 days | Sometimes |
| Nhan Dan Gia Dinh Hospital (public) | From 2 hours | 780,000 | 4 days | No |
| Nhan Dan 115 Hospital (public) | From 2 hours | 1,140,000 | 4 days | No |
Hanoi
| Provider Name | Time to complete | Price | Time to receive results | Have English-speaking staff? |
| Thu Cuc Hospital | 3 – 5 hours | 1,399,000 – 1,512,000 | From 1 day | Yes |
| Hong Ngoc Hospital | 3 – 5 hours | 1,900,000 – 2,000,000 | From same day | Yes |
Danang
| Provider Name | Time to complete | Price | Time to receive results | Have English-speaking staff? |
| Hoan My Hospital | 2 hours | 3,632,000 – 4,050,000 | From next day | Yes |
The Health Check Certificate is an essential document for anyone planning to work or live in Vietnam for more than six months. It ensures that individuals entering the country are free from contagious diseases and do not pose a risk to public health.
By obtaining a Health Check Certificate, you not only comply with the Vietnamese government’s regulations but also protect your own health and well-being. So, if you’re planning to work or live in Vietnam, make sure you obtain a Health Check Certificate before applying for a work permit or long-term visa.
Preparing for the Health Check
Going for a health check can be a nerve-wracking experience, but being prepared can help ease your anxiety. Here’s what you need to know before you go:
First, it’s important to note that a health check is a comprehensive medical examination that evaluates your overall health status. It can help detect potential health problems before they become serious and provide you with a baseline for future health assessments.
Before you go for your health check, you’ll need to prepare the necessary documents and know what tests to expect.
Required Documents
Make sure you have the following documents with you when you go for your health check:
- A photocopy and original of your passport
- Two 4 cm x 6 cm sized photos
- A completed health check application form (usually provided by hospital or clinic)
It’s important to bring these documents with you as they are required for the health check process.
Medical Tests to Expect
The medical tests you’ll undergo during the health check may vary depending on the medical facility. However, you can expect to undergo the following tests:
- Chest X-ray: This test is used to check for any abnormalities in your lungs and chest area.
- Blood test: This test is used to evaluate your overall health status, including your blood sugar levels, cholesterol levels, and liver and kidney function.
- Urinalysis: This test is used to check for any abnormalities in your urine, including the presence of blood, protein, or sugar.
These tests are non-invasive and generally painless. However, if you have any concerns or questions about the tests, don’t hesitate to ask your healthcare provider.
Costs and Payment Options
The cost of the health check will depend on the medical facility you choose. The average cost is around 1-3 million VND (approximately $50-$130 USD). Some facilities may offer additional tests or services at an additional cost.
Payment can be made in cash or by credit card. Some facilities may also accept health insurance, so be sure to check with your provider to see if your health check is covered.
You can compare the services, reviews, and prices of thousands of healthcare providers as well as book appointments using Docosan – a digital marketplace platform for healthcare in Vietnam. Here is a list of private healthcare providers you can book appointments with for the work permit health check. It is completely free for patients.
Finding a Certified Medical Facility
When it comes to finding a certified medical facility in Vietnam, it’s important to be aware that not all medical facilities are authorized to perform Health Checks for work permits and visas. This means that you need to be careful when choosing where to go for your check-up. Here’s what you need to know to find a certified medical facility.
List of Approved Hospitals and Clinics
The Vietnamese government’s website provides a list of approved hospitals and clinics that are authorized to perform Health Checks for work permits and visas. It’s essential to choose a medical facility from this list to ensure that your certificate will be valid. Going to a facility that is not approved can result in your certificate being rejected, which can cause issues with your work permit or visa application.
All hospitals and clinics listed on Docosan are fully licensed. You can contact their free medical concierge if you have any questions.
Choosing the Right Facility for You
When choosing a medical facility, there are several factors that you should consider. These include:
- Location: You’ll want to choose a facility that is conveniently located for you. Consider whether it’s close to your home or workplace and whether it’s easily accessible by public transportation or car.
- Price: The cost of Health Checks can vary depending on the facility you choose. Make sure to compare prices and choose a facility that fits within your budget.
- Availability: Some facilities may have long wait times for appointments, while others may be able to see you more quickly. Consider your schedule and choose a facility that can accommodate your needs.
- Reputation: It’s important to choose a facility that has a good reputation. Read reviews on Docosan or ask for recommendations from friends or colleagues who have gone through the Health Check process before.
By taking these factors into consideration, you can find a certified medical facility that meets your needs and ensures that your Health Check certificate will be valid for your work permit or visa application.
Now that you’re prepared for your Health Check, let’s walk through the process step-by-step.
Step-by-Step Guide to Obtaining a Health Check Certificate
1. Choose an approved medical facility and schedule an appointment.
When choosing a medical facility, it’s important to ensure that it is approved by the relevant authorities. Once you have chosen a facility, schedule an appointment that is convenient for you. Booking online via Docosan makes the process easy. Otherwise, you can call the providers directly, ask for relevant information, and compare.
2. Bring all necessary documents and payment to the medical facility.
Before your appointment, make sure to gather all necessary documents, such as your passport or ID card, photo, and any medical history or vaccination records that may be required. You should also bring payment for the Health Check, as some facilities may not accept insurance.
3. Complete the Health Check.
The Health Check typically involves a series of tests and examinations, such as a physical exam, blood tests, and imaging scans. The exact tests may vary depending on the facility and your individual health needs. During the Health Check, be sure to communicate any concerns or symptoms you may be experiencing to the medical staff.
4. Wait for your results.
After completing the Health Check, you will need to wait for the results to be processed. This can take anywhere from the same day to a few weeks, depending on the facility. Try to be patient during this time and avoid making any assumptions about your health based on your own observations.
5. Pick up your certificate and results from the medical facility.
Once your results are ready, you will need to return to the medical facility to pick up your Health Check Certificate and any other relevant documents. These documents may be required for a variety of purposes, such as obtaining a visa or applying for a job.
Common Challenges and How to Overcome Them
Some common challenges that individuals face when obtaining a Health Check Certificate include language barriers and unfamiliarity with the process. You can find English-speaking providers by searching and using the language filter on Docosan.
Otherwise, if you are not fluent in the local language, consider bringing a translator or language app with you to help communicate with the medical staff. Additionally, don’t be afraid to ask for help from the medical facility staff if you are unsure about any aspect of the process.
Another challenge that some individuals may face is anxiety or fear related to medical procedures. If you are feeling anxious, try practicing relaxation techniques such as deep breathing or meditation before your appointment. You may also want to bring a friend or family member with you for support.
Remember, the Health Check is an important step in maintaining your overall health and well-being. By following these steps and overcoming any challenges that may arise, you can ensure that you are taking the necessary steps to stay healthy and happy.
After the Health Check
After you’ve obtained your Health Check Certificate, there are a few things you need to know.
Receiving and Understanding Your Results
After your Health Check, you’ll receive a report that outlines your test results. If your results come back positive for any of the infectious diseases, you may not be eligible for a work permit or long-term visa in Vietnam.
How to Use Your Health Check Certificate
You’ll need to include your Health Check Certificate along with your work permit or visa application when submitting it to the relevant Vietnamese authority.
Renewing or Updating Your Health Check Certificate
If you plan on staying in Vietnam for more than a year, you’ll need to renew your Health Check Certificate. The renewal process is similar to the initial process and can be completed at any approved medical facility.
Final Thoughts
Obtaining a Health Check Certificate is an essential step to living and working in Vietnam. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you’ll be well on your way to obtaining your Health Check Certificate and securing your work permit or long-term visa in Vietnam.
