Procedures for Issuing Temporary Residence Cards for Foreigners in Vietnam

1. What is a Temporary Residence Card?

A temporary residence card (TRC) is required for foreigners to reside in Vietnam for a specified period of time, usually for two years. The temporary residence card is issued by the immigration management agency or an authorized agency of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs to allow foreigners to reside in Vietnam for a certain period. It serves as a substitute for a visa.

2. Cases Eligible for a Temporary Residence Card 

In Vietnam, the following cases are eligible for a Temporary Residence Card (TRC), specifically related to working and investing:

• For Working:

  • Foreign employees with a work permit: Foreigners who are working in Vietnam with a valid work permit for more than 1 year are eligible for a TRC. Common cases include:
    • Employees with managerial, executive, or specialist positions in companies operating in Vietnam.
    • Professionals working for foreign representative offices, branches, or projects in Vietnam.
    • Foreigners working under labor contracts with Vietnamese companies.
  • Foreigners exempt from work permits: Certain foreign workers, such as intra-company transferees or those working under international agreements, may be exempt from the requirement to obtain a work permit but can still qualify for a TRC.
  • Foreigners with a work visa (LD visa): If a foreigner is granted a work visa to enter Vietnam for employment, they can apply for a TRC once all work permit formalities are completed.

• For Investing:

Foreign investors (DT visa holders): Foreigners who invest in businesses in Vietnam are eligible for a TRC based on the amount of capital they have invested. Specific categories include:

• DT1: For foreign investors contributing capital of over 100 billion VND or investing in priority projects, they may receive a TRC for up to 10 years.
• DT2: For investments between 50 billion VND and less than 100 billion VND, a TRC can be granted for up to 5 years.
• DT3: For investments between 3 billion VND and less than 50 billion VND, a TRC is granted for 2  to 3 years.
• DT4: For investments less than 3 billion VND, a TRC is generally granted for 1 year.

In both cases, family members (spouse, children under 18, and dependents) of the foreign worker or investor may also qualify for a TRC based on family relationship.

3. Application Dossier for Issuing a Temporary Residence Card for Foreigners in Vietnam 

The application dossier for issuing a temporary residence card for foreigners in Vietnam includes:

• A request letter from the sponsor organization, or individual responsible for the invitation.
• A completed application form for the temporary residence card with a photo attached.
• The foreigner's passport.
• Other documents proving eligibility under the cases mentioned in section (2).
• Legal Entity Papers: a notarized copy of the company’s business license or equivalent.
• Residence Registration: Proof of temporary residence registration with the local police or on national portal.

4. Steps to Apply for a Temporary Residence Card

a) Create an Online Account

In 2024, Vietnam introduced an online system to simplify the application process for TRCs. Foreigners, employers, or sponsors must create an account on the Vietnam Immigration Department’s e-portal to submit applications electronically.
Steps to Create an Online Account:

• Visit the Vietnam Immigration Department’s Website:

Go to the Vietnam Immigration Portal and look for the section related to residence management.

• Register for an Account:
  • Choose the "Register" or "Create Account" option.
  • Fill in details like name, company information (for companies), contact details, email, and identification information.
  • After registering, you will receive an activation link via email to verify your account.
• Log in to Your Account:

Once the account is activated, log in to the system using the credentials provided.

b) Submit the Application Online

• Fill out the Application:

Select the application form for Temporary Residence Card issuance (NA8) on the online portal and fill out the necessary information (e.g., personal details, passport number, visa information).

• Upload Required Documents:

Upload scanned copies of the required documents (passport, work permit, business license, etc.).

• Submit the Application:
  • After completing the form and uploading the documents, submit the application using company e-signature.
  • The system will issue a confirmation code, which you should retain for future reference.
• Wait for Approval:

The Vietnam Immigration Department will review the application. You may be required to visit the immigration office to present original documents for verification.

c) Processing Time & Fees

The processing time typically takes 5 to 7 working days from the date of submission.
The information above provides a comprehensive overview of the necessary conditions, procedures, and validity periods for each type of temporary residence card, giving readers valuable insights into this important document. For personalized assistance or if you have any specific questions, we encourage you to contact the Zora Consulting team. Our experts are ready to guide you through the process and ensure your application is handled smoothly and efficiently.