Hiring from Vietnam — a guide
By: Watari Editorial Team·Last updated: 2026-07-08
Vietnam is one of the largest sending countries of foreign workers to Japan. Hiring via Specified Skilled Worker and skill-development is progressing across many fields — manufacturing, construction, care, food service and more. This guide covers the sending system, procedures, cost thinking and the hiring flow for employers. Watari sends workers primarily from Cambodia, and also from Vietnam, Indonesia and Sri Lanka.
Characteristics of Vietnamese workers
A young population, strong orientation to working in Japan, and the deepest sending track record, so training and procedures are mature. It is easy to find candidates across a wide range of jobs. The following are general tendencies; individuals vary widely.
The sending system (DOLAB-licensed)
Sending from Vietnam is generally done through agencies licensed by the competent authority (DOLAB). Going through a licensed agency and checking transparency of fees and training is the first step to proper hiring.
Applicable statuses of residence
Specified Skilled Worker (i), skill-development / technical intern, and Engineer/Specialist — chosen by job and duration. If unsure which fits, we propose based on the work.
Cost and transparency
Sending-side costs vary by country and agency. Avoid excessive fees and opaque intermediary costs, and check the breakdown. Judging by total cost (TCO) is safer.
The hiring flow
Consultation → candidate screening/interview → residence procedures → arrival/placement → settling-in support. The Japan-side support and application are progressed together with partner registered support organizations and administrative scriveners.
Vietnam vs. Cambodia
The best fit changes by job, language, cost and retention. With Cambodia as our main base, we propose candidates from multiple countries including Vietnam and support settling in with mother-tongue help.
FAQ
- Which jobs can we hire Vietnamese workers for?
- There is a track record across manufacturing, construction, care, food service and more. We propose candidates meeting SSW / skill-development requirements.
- How do we choose a sending agency?
- Go through a licensed (DOLAB) sending agency, and check fee transparency and pre-departure training.
- How much does it cost?
- It varies by route and country. See the cost guide, then we'll share a concrete estimate in a free consultation.
- Vietnam or Cambodia — which is better?
- The best fit changes by job, language, cost and retention. We propose the country based on your needs.
This page is general reference information. Sending systems and procedures may change. Confirm the latest and accurate information with the competent authorities and official sources (Immigration Services Agency).