With an open policy and a growing economy, Vietnam is increasingly attracting the interest of foreign investors and professionals looking to advance their careers. For those planning long-term residence, a temporary residence card is an essential document.
However, the process of obtaining a Vietnam temporary residence card can be detailed and complex, involving numerous document requirements and legal regulations. A lack of understanding or incomplete paperwork can lead to delays or even denial of the application, affecting the rights of the foreign applicant as well as the operations of the sponsoring organization.
This article provides a comprehensive guide to temporary residence cards for foreigners in Vietnam—including the different types available, eligibility requirements, and necessary documents—to help ensure a smooth, efficient, and successful application process.
What is a Vietnam temporary residence card?
A temporary residence card (TRC) is an official document issued by Vietnam’s immigration authorities or a competent agency under the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. It allows a foreign national to reside in Vietnam for a designated period and serves as a substitute for a visa.
Benefits of holding a Vietnam TRC:
- Exemption from applying for a visa each time you enter or exit Vietnam
- Ability to live in Vietnam long term without the need for frequent visa renewals
- Easier access to essential services such as opening bank accounts, renting accommodation, signing long-term contracts, and completing other civil transactions
- Eligibility to carry out business procedures and register a marriage in Vietnam
- Possibility to sponsor family members (parents, spouse, children) for their own temporary residence cards
Eligibility for Issuance of a Vietnam Temporary Residence Card
According to Articles 36 and 38 of Law No. 51/2019/QH14 on the entry, exit, transit, and residence of foreigners in Vietnam, the following categories of individuals are eligible to apply for a temporary residence card.
| Individuals | Card code | Validity |
| Foreigners working in Vietnam who are certified as eligible for a work permit exemption | LĐ1 | Maximum of 2 years |
| Foreigners working in Vietnam who are required to have a work permit | LĐ2 | Maximum of 2 years |
| Members of diplomatic missions, consular offices, representative offices of UN-affiliated international organizations or intergovernmental organizations and accompany spouses, children under 18, and housemaids during their term of office | NG3 | Maximum of 5 years |
| Foreigners working with the departments, agencies and units under the Central Committee of the Communist Party of Vietnam; the National Assembly; the Government; the Central Committee of the Vietnam Fatherland Front; the Supreme People’s Court; the Supreme People’s Procuracy; the State Audit, ministries, ministerial-level agencies, government agencies; City Party Committees, People’s Councils, and People’s Committees of provinces and centrally run cities | LV1 | Maximum of 5 years |
| Foreigners working with political–social organizations, social organizations, Vietnam Chamber of Commerce and Industry | LV2 | Maximum of 5 years |
| Heads of representative offices, projects of international organizations or foreign non-governmental organizations in Vietnam | NN1 | Maximum of 3 years |
| Foreigners working for representative offices, branches of foreign traders, representative offices of foreign economic, cultural, or other professional organizations in Vietnam | NN2 | Maximum of 3 years |
| Lawyers practicing in Vietnam | LS | Maximum of 5 years |
| Foreign investors in Vietnam and representatives of foreign organizations investing in Vietnam with a capital contribution of VND 3–100 billion or more, or investing in sectors or locations with investment incentives as determined by the Government | ĐT | From 3 to 10 years, depending on the amount of investment |
| Internship and study in Vietnam | DH | Maximum of 5 years |
| Spouses and children under 18 of foreigners holding visas with codes LV1, LV2, LS, ĐT1, ĐT2, ĐT3, NN1, NN2, DH, PV1, LĐ1, or LĐ2, or foreigners who are the parent, spouse, or child of a Vietnamese citizen | TT | Maximum of 3 years |
| Journalists and reporters permanently based in Vietnam | PV1 | Maximum of 2 years |
*Note:
- The validity of the Vietnam temporary residence card must be at least 30 days shorter than the remaining validity of the passport.
- Foreigners whose TRC has expired may be considered for the issuance of a new card
Vietnam Temporary Residence Card Application Process
The required documents for a Vietnam TRC depend on the applicant’s category.
For foreigners holding a work permit or exempt from a work permit:
- Notarized copy of the valid Vietnam work permit or work permit exemption for the foreign employee, with at least 12 months remaining.
- Notarized copy of the business registration, investment certificate or license to operate a representative office or branch.
- Certificate of seal registration or a document confirming the publication of the company’s seal on the National Business Registration Portal.
- Application form for a temporary residence card.
- Original passport, valid for at least 1 year (or 2 years if applying for a 2-year TRC).
- Temporary residence registration confirmation.
- 2 photos (2cm x 3cm).
For foreign spouses of Vietnamese citizens
- Notarized copy of the marriage certificate in Vietnam or a consular legalized copy of the marriage registration in Vietnam if the marriage was registered abroad.
- Sponsorship application for the issuance of a temporary residence card for the foreign spouse.
- Temporary residence card application form
- Original passport and visa (Passport valid for at least 13 months and visa corresponding to the purpose of entry into Vietnam).
- 2 photos (2cm x 3cm).
- Notarized copy of the household registration book of the Vietnamese spouse.
- Notarized copy of the ID card (CCCD) of the Vietnamese spouse.
For foreigners whose parent(s) are Vietnamese citizens:
- Birth certificate or other documents proving that one of the parents is currently a Vietnamese citizen
- Application for sponsorship and issuance of a temporary residence card
- Declaration form requesting the issuance of a temporary residence card
- Original passport and visa (passport must be valid for at least 13 months, and visa must match the purpose of entry into Vietnam)
- 2 photos (2cm x 3cm)
- Notarized copy of the household registration book of the Vietnamese parent(s)
- Notarized copy of the ID card (CCCD) of the Vietnamese parent(s)
For foreign investors:
- Notarized copy of the Business Registration Certificate or Investment License, clearly showing the foreign investor’s contributed capital.
- Certificate of seal registration or Official notice of the company’s seal information posted on the National Business Registration Portal.
- Initial registration of the company’s seal and signature at the Immigration Department.
- Official letter and application for the issuance of a temporary residence card
- Declaration form requesting the issuance of a temporary residence card
- Original passport and visa (passport must be valid for at least 13 months, and visa must match the purpose of entry into Vietnam).
- Temporary residence registration certificate.
- 2 photos (2cm x 3cm).
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between a temporary residence card and a visa?
Both a temporary residence card and a visa allow foreigners to enter and stay in Vietnam, but they differ in purpose, duration, and benefits.
The visa is usually issued for temporary purposes such as tourism, business trips, family visits, or short-term study. It is valid for a short period and may allow single or multiple entries depending on the type.
In contrast, the temporary residence card is for those who wish to stay long-term, work, invest, or live with their family in Vietnam. It is valid from 1 to 5 years and can be extended without leaving the country.
Do I need a visa if I already have a temporary residence card?
In Vietnam, if you already have a temporary residence card, you don’t need a visa while the card is valid. The temporary residence card replaces the visa for long-term entry and stay.
How much does it cost to get a Vietnam temporary residence card?
The cost of a TRC depends on the individual case, card type, and length of stay. For accurate fees and detailed advice, please contact FISC. Our team of specialists will help assess your case and provide guidance to make the process of obtaining a temporary residence card as quick and convenient as possible.
What is the penalty for overstaying a temporary residence card?
If a temporary residence card expires and is not renewed on time, foreigners will be subject to penalties under Vietnamese law. According to Article 18, Decree 144/2021/ND-CP, individuals who overstay their temporary residence card may face fines ranging from VND 500,000 to VND 20,000,000, depending on the length of the overstay. Overstaying can also affect future procedures for residence, renewal, or issuance of a new card, and in severe cases, may lead to deportation.
Therefore, foreigners are advised to renew their TRC before it expires to avoid risks and unnecessary fines. For detailed guidance and full support in timely renewing your temporary residence card, please contact FISC.
Conclusion
The temporary residence card is an important document that allows foreigners to live legally in Vietnam. Understanding the different card types, eligibility requirements, and related procedures can help you prepare your application more effectively. However, many foreigners choose to use Vietnam TRC services to make the process simpler and more convenient.
With over 30 years of experience, FISC proudly commits to supporting clients at every step of the Vietnam temporary residence card application process, ensuring that your documents are complete, accurate, and processed efficiently. Contact us today for personalized advice and dedicated assistance!
