1. What is a Temporary Residence Card (TRC) in Vietnam?
A Temporary Residence Card (TRC) is a document issued by Vietnamese immigration authorities that allows a foreigner to reside legally in Vietnam for a long period, without the need to renew a visa multiple times.
A TRC is often issued to foreigners who:
- Work legally in Vietnam
- Invest in Vietnamese companies
- Have family ties with Vietnamese citizens
📌 Important:
A TRC is not a substitute for a Work Permit. In most cases, foreigners must first have a valid work permit or work permit exemption.
👉 For work eligibility, please refer to:
[Work Permit in Vietnam: Requirements, Application Process, and Common Mistakes for Foreigners](INTERNAL LINK – Bài 1)
2. Who is eligible for a Temporary Residence Card?
Foreigners may apply for a Temporary Residence Card in Vietnam if they fall under one of the following categories:
3. Validity and benefits of a Temporary Residence Card
3.1. Validity period
A TRC may be valid for:
- From 1 year up to 10 years, depending on the applicant’s legal status and category.
3.2. Key benefits
Holding a TRC allows foreigners to:
- Enter and exit Vietnam multiple times without visa renewal
- Stay legally in Vietnam for long periods
- Simplify administrative procedures
4. Documents required for a TRC application
A typical TRC application dossier includes:
- Application form for TRC issuance
- Passport (original and copy)
- Work Permit or exemption confirmation
- Business registration or investment certificate (if applicable)
- Marriage certificate (for family cases)
- Temporary residence registration confirmation
📌 Important note:
Foreign-issued documents often require consular legalization, Vietnamese translation, and notarization.
5. Application process for a Temporary Residence Card
The general process includes:
- Verification of eligibility
- Preparation of required documents
- Submission to the Immigration Department
- Issuance of Temporary Residence Card
Processing time may vary depending on the case.
6. Common mistakes foreigners should avoid
From practical experience, DHH Law Firm frequently sees the following issues:
6.1. Applying for a TRC without proper work status
A TRC application may be rejected if:
- The applicant does not hold a valid Work Permit or exemption; or
- Employment documents are inconsistent.
6.2. Mismatch between visa type and TRC purpose
Visa purpose must align with:
- Employment
- Investment
- Family reunion
7. When should you consult a lawyer?
You should consult a lawyer if:
- Your case involves both labor and investment elements
- Your documents are issued overseas
- You plan long-term residence in Vietnam
- You want to avoid delays or legal risks
Each TRC application should be reviewed case by case.
📞 Contact DHH Law Firm Today
Temporary Residence Card applications require strict legal compliance.
Foreigners are strongly advised to seek professional legal support.
🏢 Main Office: 2nd Floor, 829 Huynh Tan Phat Street, Phu Thuan Ward, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
📞 Hotline: +84 89 9352 777 (VN) | +84 89 9351 777 (ENG)
🌐 Website: www.dhhlawfirm.vn
📧 Email: contact@dhhlawfirm.vn
✨ DHH Law Firm – Your trusted legal partner for family and foreign-related civil procedures in Vietnam.
