Obtaining A Vietnam Temporary Residence Card

For foreigners aiming to reside in Vietnam long-term for work, business, study, or research, it is important to be aware of the most recent immigration policies introduced by the Vietnamese government. As of 2025, the options for long-term residency have significantly expanded, catering to a variety of needs and situations.

With the implementation of the latest immigration regulations, foreigners now have enhanced opportunities for obtaining either permanent or temporary residence cards. These cards are valid for durations ranging from one to three years, serving not only as identification but also as an entry visa, which streamlines travel in and out of Vietnam. This change has reduced the time and financial burden associated with visa applications and extensions. Below, we outline essential regulations and procedures for applying for a Temporary Residence Card (TRC):

Who Can Apply

• Members of a limited liability company with two or more members
• Owners of one-member limited liability companies
• Members of the Board of a joint-stock company
• Foreign lawyers licensed by the Ministry of Justice to practice law in Vietnam
• Foreigners holding work permits and employed by various foreign enterprises or representative offices of foreign companies
• Professionals, students, and trainees involved in national programs and projects approved by the government
• Accompanying relatives (including parents, spouses, and children under 18 of the primary applicant)

Issuing Authority

The TRC is issued by the authorized provincial office under the Ministry of Public Security that manages entry and exit.

Required Documents

• A written request for a Temporary Residence Card (form N5A) and a declaration of information about the applicant (form N5B), including two passport-sized photos (3x4 cm)
• A copy of a valid passport or visa, with the original for verification
• A copy (with the original for verification) of the legal documents from the agency, organization, or enterprise sponsoring the applicant. This may include a Business Registration Certificate, Investment Certificate, or License for a representative office
• A copy of the work permit (original required for comparison, if applicable)
• Proof of temporary residence address issued by the local police department
• If applying for accompanying relatives, proof of relationship is necessary, such as birth certificates, marriage certificates, or a family book

Validity

• The TRC is valid for one to three years.
• The duration of the TRC must be at least one month shorter than the validity of the passport.
• No TRC will be issued if the passport is valid for less than one year.

Processing Time and Fee

• The processing time is generally five working days from the receipt of a complete application (not including cases of lost card replacement).
• The fee for the TRC varies depending on its validity: for one year, it costs approximately 65 USD; for one to two years, 85 USD; and for two to three years, 110 USD.
• Payments are accepted in both USD and VND, depending on the processing center.

Useful Information

If your TRC is lost, it is essential to promptly notify the issuing agency. The process for reissuing a TRC resembles that of obtaining a new one, with a standard processing time of about 14 working days.