Over the past few years, the global trade war has come under intense scrutiny, revealing significant consequences for economies worldwide. Within this context, Vietnam has become a key destination for countries looking to relocate their production facilities.
Therefore, understanding the role of the Temporary Residence Card Vietnam is crucial for anyone interested in business opportunities or exploring new markets. The government recently modified this essential permit for foreigners looking to stay long-term to enhance tourism and attract foreign investment. It is necessary for both long stays and as a fundamental part of applications for personal and business extensions in Vietnam.
What is a Temporary Residence Card (TRC)?
A Temporary Residence Card (TRC), as defined in Article 3 of Law No. 47/2014/QH13 on Entry, Exit, Transit, and Residence of Foreigners in Vietnam, allows foreigners to reside in Vietnam for extended periods. It serves as both an identity document and an entry visa, eliminating the need for visa renewals or extensions.
Additionally, the TRC is necessary for various administrative processes, such as:
A TRC differs from a permanent residence card (PRC), which has much stricter and more limited eligibility criteria. It is important to note that non-compliance with Immigration laws, such as not having a TRC or overstaying the allowed period, can result in imprisonment.
Eligibility for a Vietnam Temporary Residence Card (TRC)
In Vietnam, the Temporary Residence Card (TRC) allows foreign nationals to live and work for an extended period. Eligible individuals include:
- Owners of single-member limited liability companies or members of multi-member limited liability companies.
- Licensed lawyers authorized to practice in Vietnam.
- Foreign nationals holding work permits, including those associated with representative offices of foreign companies.
- Professionals, trainees, and students participating in government-approved programs.
Eligibility extends to:
- Corporate governance members (e.g., directors or shareholders of stock companies).
- Family members of TRC holders, including parents, spouses, and children.
Foreign nationals seeking a temporary residence card in Vietnam must adhere to specific prerequisites:
- Valid passport for at least 13 months.
- TRC duration is 30 days less than the passport’s validity.
- Registration with local commune or ward police.
Certain foreigners are ineligible for a temporary residence card in Vietnam. These include individuals currently under criminal prosecution or those involved as defendants in civil, economic, or labor disputes. Moreover, individuals required to serve a criminal sentence, enforce civil or economic judgments, or adhere to administrative sanctions, including tax liabilities and other financial responsibilities, will not qualify for this card.
Requirements for TRC in Vietnam
According to the 2015 Immigration Law, foreign nationals seeking a Temporary Residence Card (TRC) must apply through the Ministry of Affairs. To obtain a TRC, applicants must submit several key documents, and any non-Vietnamese documents must be translated and notarized in compliance with Vietnamese Immigration Law. Required documents include:
- A written request for a TRC
- A personal declaration form from the applicant
- A passport with a valid visa
- Additional documents based on the applicant’s status in Vietnam, such as:
- Business sponsor records
- Investment certificates
- Residence registration
- Work Permits
- Enterprise Registration Certificates (ERC)
- Licenses for Representative Offices
- Company seal registration certificates
- Company branch documentation
- Proof of familial relationships (e.g., marriage or birth certificates)
Procedures for Applying TRC Vietnam for Expats
1. Prepare Necessary Documents
Gather the required documents for the TRC application, including:
- A written request for the TRC
- A completed personal declaration form
- A valid passport with a visa
- Relevant documents based on your status in Vietnam, such as work permits, business registration, and investment certificates.
2. Submit Documents to Authorities
– Agencies, organizations, and individuals must submit their documents at the following locations of the Immigration Department of the Ministry of Public Security:
- 44-46 Tran Phu, Ba Dinh, Hanoi
- 333-335-337 Nguyen Trai Str., District 1, Ho Chi Minh City
– Officers who receive the documents will verify their legality and completeness:
- If the documents are incomplete, the officers will instruct the applicant on how to complete them.
- If the documents are complete, the officers will accept them, print them, and provide a receipt that includes the date the results will be available.
– Office Hours: Monday to Saturday morning (excluding New Year’s days, public holidays, and Sundays).
3. Receiving the Result
The individual collecting the result must present the receipt and an ID or passport for verification. If the temporary residence card is issued, they will pay the fees, sign the receipt, and receive the card. If not issued, the officers will provide further instructions.
Content Dossier
- A completed application for a temporary residence card (form NA6 for agencies and organizations, NA7 for individuals);
- An information form for a temporary resident card for foreigners (NA8);
- Documentation verifying eligibility for a temporary residence card, which may include work permits, certificates for heads of representative offices, membership on a Board of Directors, or other relevant documents;
- Two photographs measuring 2×3 cm (one photo attached to the information form and one separate photo).
Number Dossiers
– Processing time: within 5 working days from receiving the dossier
– Eligible applicants: Vietnamese agencies, organizations, and citizens
– Responsible authority: Immigration Department, Ministry of Public Security
– Outcome of administrative process: issuance of temporary residence cards
– Fees (where applicable):
- Temporary residence cards valid for 1 to 2 years: US$145 per card.
- Temporary residence cards with 2 to 5 years validity: US$155 per card.
– Application documents (if required):
- A written application for temporary residence cards (form NA6 for agencies and organizations, NA7 for individuals);
- An information form for a temporary resident card for foreigners (form NA8).
Read Related: Work Permit Vietnam Agency: Requirements, Procedures, and Work Visa Services for Expats in Vietnam
Requirements and Conditions for Administrative Procedures
1. When applying for a temporary residence card for a foreigner, agencies or organizations must provide documentation verifying their legal status to the Immigration Department of the Ministry of Public Security. This set of application documents needs to be submitted only once.
a) A certified copy of the organization’s establishment license or decision from a relevant authority.
b) A certified copy of the organization’s operation registration issued by a competent authority of the People’s Committee of provinces or centrally administered cities.
c) A document confirming the seal and signature of the authorized representative.
2. Foreign nationals who enter the country for operational purposes as per Vietnamese law and who are not under an “exit suspension” may be eligible for a temporary residence card valid for 1 to 3 years. However, temporary residence cards will not be issued in the following situations:
- If the individual is under investigation for criminal liability or is a defendant in civil, economic, or labor disputes;
- If the individual is required to fulfill criminal judgments;
- If the individual is required to fulfill civil and economic judgments;
- If the individual must comply with administrative sanctions, tax liabilities, or other financial obligations.
Legal Basis of Administrative Procedures
- Law No. 47/2014/QH13 on foreigners’ entry into, exit from, transit through, and residence in Vietnam, dated June 16, 2014.
- Circular No. 04/2015/TT-BCA, issued on January 5, 2015, by the Ministry of Public Security, outlines the forms required for the entry, exit, and residence of foreigners in Vietnam.
- Circular No. 219/2016/TT-BTC, issued on November 10, 2016, by the Ministry of Finance, regulates the collection, payment, management, and utilization of fees related to the exit, entry, transit, and residence in Vietnam.
Duration & Validity of Vietnam’s TRC
The processing time for a temporary residence card (TRC) in Vietnam is typically between 5 to 7 working days after all required documents are submitted. A TRC is valid for 1 to 3 years, though its validity cannot extend beyond the expiration of the applicant’s passport.
Foreigners with passports valid for less than one year are ineligible for a TRC. This card enables extended stays and can be renewed beyond the initial period.
Fees for Issuing Temporary Residence Cards to Expats
As outlined in Circular No. 219/2016/TT-BTC, issued on November 10, 2016, by the Ministry of Finance, the fees for granting temporary residence cards to foreigners are as follows:
- US$145 for a TRC valid for 1 to 2 years
- US$155 for a TRC valid for 2 to 5 years
- US$550 for a two-year temporary residence card
Conclusion
The Vietnam Temporary Residence Card (TRC) is essential for foreigners planning to live and work in Vietnam for the long term. It offers numerous benefits, including the ability to stay, work, do business, and access vital services such as banking and telecommunications without frequent visa renewals. Eligible applicants include company owners, licensed lawyers, foreign nationals with valid work permits, and their immediate family members.
The application process requires specific documentation and adherence to Vietnamese immigration regulations. For those needing assistance, The Nest Asia provides expert services to simplify and expedite the TRC application process.
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The Nest Asia is a one-stop resource offering comprehensive information, practical relocation advice, cultural insights, valuable connections, and trusted services to help expatriates living in Vietnam navigate the transition, overcome challenges, and build a fulfilling life abroad. Starting your journey in a new country can often feel overwhelming. The Nest Asia is your trusted partner – we’re here to simplify that process and ultimately make Vietnam feel like home for you and your loved ones.
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Disclaimer: The Nest Asia is not an authorized provider of official government or non-government services. The information provided is intended for general guidance only. While we strive to offer accurate and timely information, we make no representations or warranties regarding its completeness or accuracy.
