Assessing Travel and Visa Obligations

Whether you can travel lawfully as a business visitor or require work authorization depends on the types of activities you will be conducting during your time in Brunei. In case you are unsure if your activities constitute business or work, please seek advice from your immigration counsel.

Traveling for Business

What sorts of activities can I pursue as a business visitor?

Business visitors traveling to Brunei may engage in the activities below. This list is not comprehensive and other activities may qualify as business.

• Business meetings
• Contract negotiations
• Buying goods for sale outside the country
• Selling goods inside the country
• Touring a company facility
• Exploring business opportunities
• Attending a trade show, a seminar convention, or a conference
• Undergoing training

If I qualify as a business visitor, do I need a visa for Brunei?

All foreign nationals entering Brunei to conduct business activities require a Business Visit Visa (BVV).  BAL recommends that all business visitors obtain a BVV at a Bruneian embassy or consulate prior to arrival. In some cases, select nationals may enter Brunei and obtain a visa on arrival for the purpose of engaging in business activities and convert to a BVV in country.

Brunei is a member of the Asian Pacific Economic Council (APEC). Foreign nationals in possession of valid APEC Business Travel Cards (ABTC) endorsed with “Valid for travel to BRN” are permitted to enter Brunei without a visa to conduct business activities.

Working in Brunei

What sorts of activities require work authorization?

The activities below, whether paid or unpaid, generally constitute as work under Bruneian law. This list is not comprehensive and many other professional activities are considered work in Brunei, even if conducted for a short duration.

• Hands-on technical work
• Repairs and maintenance
• Project planning and implementation
• Marketing

Foreign nationals wishing to engage in productive work activities in the oil and gas, IT and construction industries in Brunei for no more than 12 months must obtain work authorization in the form of a non-renewable Special Authorization Work Pass.

If I am traveling to Brunei for work, what type of work authorization do I need?

Your eligibility to obtain work authorization depends on whether your employer has an entity in Brunei and on the duration of your stay. The most common form of work authorization is the Employment Pass (long-term work authorization). Prior to applying for an Employment Pass from the Immigration Department, a Foreign Worker License approval from the Labor Department must be procured.

Are there any nationals who are exempt from work authorization requirements?

There are no nationals who are exempt from the work authorization requirement in Brunei.

What else should I know?

Inevitably, the legal and strategic considerations impacting visa selection or work authorization entail the careful consideration of many factors. We recommend that you consult with your immigration counsel before taking any course of action.

Copyright © 2018 Berry Appleman & Leiden LLP. Government immigration agencies often change their policies and practices without notice; please consult an immigration professional for up-to-date information. This document does not constitute legal advice or create an attorney-client relationship. BAL maintains comprehensive immigration information and processing specifics for our clients.

Updated Nov. 13, 2018.