How to Apply for a Vietnam Temporary Residence Card
This article provides comprehensive information about the Vietnam Temporary Residence Card including its purpose and eligibility criteria and application process and fees and associated advantages.
What is a Vietnam Temporary Residence Card?
The Vietnam Temporary Residence Card is an official document that allows foreigners to stay in Vietnam for a prolonged period that is usually from 1 to 3 years depending on your visa and the purpose of your stay. The long-term visa permits foreign residents to live alongside employment and educational activities inside a country without requiring regular visa renewal procedures. Who is Eligible for Vietnam Temporary Residence Card?
A Vietnam Temporary Residence Card (TRC) is available to foreign nationals meeting specific eligibility requirements. The following individuals can apply:
- Foreign workers with a valid work permit: Foreign nationals who hold a valid work permit in Vietnam are eligible which should be at least 12 months at the time of application. This also includes workers across various sectors and those associated with representative offices of foreign companies.
- Diplomatic and international representatives: Those who are members of diplomatic missions, consular offices and representatives of international organizations affiliated with the United Nations can apply for the TRC.
- Business owners and corporate roles: Foreigners who own a single-member limited liability company or are members of a multi-member limited liability company are eligible. Additionally, individuals involved in corporate governance such as board members of stock corporations or those who hold ownership in businesses can apply.
- Licensed professionals: Foreign lawyers authorized by the Ministry of Justice to practice law in Vietnam are eligible for a TRC.
- Government-sanctioned professionals and students: Foreigners who are part of government-approved training programs, internships or educational exchanges may also apply for a TRC.
- Immediate family members: The TRC eligibility extends to immediate family members, including parents, spouses, and children of foreign nationals already residing in Vietnam with a temporary residence.
Ineligible foreign nationals
Certain members are not eligible for the Vietnam Temporary Residence Card:
- Individuals under criminal prosecution.
- Those involved in civil, economic and labor disputes.
- Individuals who need to serve a criminal sentence, enforce civil or economic judgments or adhere to administrative sanctions, including tax liabilities or other financial responsibilities.
This ensures that only eligible foreign nationals can obtain the TRC, helping maintain order and compliance with Vietnam’s legal framework.
Vietnam Temporary Residence Card Requirements
Foreigners need to apply for a Vietnam Temporary Residence Card (TRC) through the Ministry of Foreign Affairs according to the 2015 Immigration Law. The application process requires applicants to submit multiple essential documents. All documents in languages other than Vietnamese need translation services which must follow Vietnamese Immigration Law requirements for notarization.
The following documents serve as the essential requirements:
- Written request for TRC: A formal application letter serves as the Written Request for TRC to obtain a Temporary Residence Card.
- Personal declaration form: The applicant needs to submit their personal declaration form which has been properly filled out.
- Valid passport with visa: The applicant's passport must be valid, and it should include a current visa.
- Additional documents specific to the applicant’s situation: These could include various supporting documents, such as:
- Business Sponsor Records: If the applicant is sponsored by a business, relevant documents must be provided.
- Investment Certificates: For those applying based on investments in Vietnam.
- Residence Registration: Proof of temporary residence in Vietnam.
- Work Permits: Required for those applying through employment.
Business Registration Certificates: For business owners or investors. - Licenses for Representative Offices: If applicable, for those working in representative offices.
- Company Seal Registration Certificates: Businesses need Company Seal Registration Certificates to prove their legal business status.
- Company Branch Documentation: If the applicant is associated with a company branch.
- Proof of Familial Relationships: The main applicant must present marriage certificates or birth certificates for family members who apply with them.
All documents must be properly arranged while receiving Vietnamese translation services and necessary notarization to fulfill Vietnamese immigration requirements.
How to Get a Vietnam Temporary Residence Card?
The process of obtaining a Vietnam Temporary Residence Card (TRC) requires strict adherence to multiple application steps for successful completion. The following guide outlines the steps needed to obtain a TRC.
Step 1: Prepare the Documents
Check the required documents list below to verify their validity and current status. All documents in languages other than Vietnamese need translation services that follow Vietnamese immigration regulations for notarization.
- A written request by agencies for a residence card (form NA6)
- A guarantee application form (form NA7)
- An information form for a resident card (form NA8 for foreigners)
- A valid original passport, current visa
- Old temporary residence card (if any)
- A valid, original passport and an active visa
Previous temporary residence card (if applicable) - A certified copy of a work permit, representative officer certificate, or other documents that confirm the foreigner’s eligibility for a temporary residence card with a minimum validity of 12 months
- Two passport-sized photos (2x3 cm), one attached to the information form and one kept separately
For agencies/organizations acting as guarantors and submitting documents for the first time:
- A notarized copy of the organization's/company's establishment license
- A notarized copy of the organization's/company's registration of operations
- A certificate or written confirmation of seal usage, signed by an authorized representative of the organization/company
Be sure to verify that all documents are current and meet the required specifications, as failure to submit any of these documents will result in your application being denied.
Step 2: Submit the Application
The Immigration Department or immigration office of your provincial or city residence requires you to submit your documents. The Immigration Department maintains its main offices at three locations:
- Hanoi: 44-46 Tran Phu, Ba Dinh, Hanoi
- Ho Chi Minh City: 254 Nguyen Trai, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City
- Danang: 7 Tran Quy Cap, Danang City
The Immigration Department will examine your documents before issuing Form NB7 as your receipt. The immigration officer will notify you about necessary additional documents when your application lacks completion or contains missing documents. You must prepare the required documents before resubmitting them to the immigration office.
The submission period operates from Monday to Saturday before noon except during weekends and official holidays.
Step 3: Receive the Result
You must wait for the result after you finish submitting your application. You must present your receipt together with your ID card or passport at the immigration office on your scheduled appointment to verify your application status.
After your Vietnam Temporary Residence Card approval you must pay the fee and sign for receipt before receiving your card. The immigration department will notify you about the reason if your card application fails to be issued.
Temporary Residence Card Processing Time & Fees
The average processing time for the Vietnam Temporary Residence Card spans from 7 to 15 business days.
As for the temporary residence card Vietnam cost, according to Circular No. 219/2016/TT-BTC, the fees for issuing a Vietnam Temporary Residence Card are as follows:
- Temporary Residence Cards Valid for 1 to 2 Years: $145 per card.
- Temporary Residence Cards Valid for Over 2 to 5 Years: $155 per card.
- A two-year temporary residence card in Vietnam costs US$550.
The Immigration Department requires five working days to process Vietnam Temporary Residence Card applications after receiving complete valid applications. The processing time for your application will be delayed if you submit inaccurate or incomplete required documents.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I work with a Vietnam Temporary Residence Card?
Yes, if you have a work visa or a business visa that supports your employment status, you can work legally in Vietnam with the card.
Can I travel in and out of Vietnam with a Temporary Residence Card?
Yes, the Vietnam Temporary Residence Card allows multiple entries into and out of the country during the validity period, making it easier for you to travel.
What happens if my Vietnam Temporary Residence Card expires?
If your card expires, you must apply for a renewal before the expiry date. If you fail to do so, you might be subject to fines or penalties.
Is there any advantage to having a Temporary Residence Card over a visa?
Yes! A temporary residence card Vietnam offers many benefits over a regular visa, such as longer stay periods, fewer renewals, and the ability to work without needing additional permits.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the Vietnam Temporary Residence Card serves as an excellent choice for people who plan to stay in Vietnam for extended periods whether for work, investment or family reasons. It offers benefits like easy travel, longer stays, and the ability to work without extra paperwork. If the process feels overwhelming, let Seniworld assist you in securing your residence permit smoothly. Apply today and enjoy the perks of living in Vietnam!