How to Get Your Documents Legalised for Vietnam as a South African Teacher
Published 14 April 2026 · 9 min read · Category: TEFL Advice
Why Document Legalisation Matters
Teaching legally in Vietnam requires a valid work permit, and getting that work permit requires authenticated copies of your degree certificate and police clearance. Your South African documents must go through an official chain — DIRCO apostille → Vietnamese Embassy attestation.
Document 1: SAPS Police Clearance Certificate
Apply online at eservices.saps.gov.za or in person at a SAPS fingerprint station. Request a "full clearance." Fee: R131. Takes 4–8 weeks.
DIRCO apostille — OR Tambo Building, 460 Soutpansberg Road, Pretoria. Cost: R150–R250. Turnaround: 1–3 business days.
Same chain: DIRCO apostille → Vietnamese Embassy attestation. Some employers require a certified registrar copy before the apostille step.
Document 3: TEFL Certificate
Typically does not need embassy attestation — a certified copy from The View TEFL Academy is usually sufficient. We provide certified copies for all graduates.
Total Timeline
SAPS clearance: 4–8 weeks
DIRCO apostille: 3–7 business days
Vietnamese Embassy attestation: 5–10 business days
Total: 8–14 weeks
Start the SAPS application on the same day you book your TEFL course. The View manages this entire process for Cape Town graduates — most have authenticated documents ready within 10–12 weeks of starting.