PROCEDURE FOR EXTENDING TEMPORARY RESIDENCE CARDS FOR FOREIGN WORKERS

Currently, Vietnam is an extremely attractive market for foreign workers seeking employment. The demand for foreign labor has become increasingly common due to the rise in foreign investment projects in Vietnam, the growing need for services provided by foreign enterprises, and the signing of trade agreements such as the WTO, ASEAN, and others.

To legally reside and work in Vietnam, foreign nationals must be granted a Temporary Residence Card (TRC) with a maximum validity of up to 2 years. So, what should be done when the TRC expires?

This article will provide you with essential information about the conditions and procedures for extending your Temporary Residence Card in Vietnam.

1. What is Temporary Residence Card Extension for Foreign Workers?

Extending a Temporary Residence Card (TRC) is the process by which a foreign worker carries out the necessary procedures to maintain their legal residency status in Vietnam after their current TRC expires. The TRC is an important document that allows foreign workers to live, work, and carry out administrative transactions in Vietnam without facing legal issues. This card is typically valid for 1 to 2 years, and upon expiration, the worker must extend it in a timely manner to continue residing and working in Vietnam without interruption. Extending the TRC not only helps protect the personal rights of foreign workers but also contributes to maintaining cooperative labor relations between companies and foreign employees.

Procedure and Steps to Extend a Temporary Residence Card

Extending a TRC is a process that requires foreign workers to understand each step clearly—from preparing the application documents to receiving the new card. The process includes steps such as preparing required documents, filling out application forms, submitting the application to the Immigration Department, and receiving the result.

To ensure a smooth and quick extension process, the foreign worker must prepare all required documents as per the regulations of the competent authority. Submitting a complete and accurate application helps minimize waiting time and reduces the risk of rejection.

Conditions for Extending a Temporary Residence Card

The conditions for extending a TRC may vary depending on the individual and their specific circumstances. However, some basic conditions include:

• The foreign worker’s passport must be valid for at least one more year
• The work permit must still be valid
• A temporary residence confirmation from the local police (where the person resides in Vietnam) is required

These documents help the immigration authorities verify that the worker is legally residing in Vietnam and has not violated immigration laws.

Why Is It Important to Extend the TRC on Time?

Extending the TRC on time ensures the foreign worker maintains their legal residency status and protects their employment rights. If the TRC expires and is not renewed in time, the worker may face administrative penalties or be required to leave Vietnam. In addition, failure to extend the TRC may result in difficulties in processing other legal procedures, such as visa extensions, signing employment contracts, or conducting financial transactions.

Benefits of Extending a Temporary Residence Card

Extending the TRC allows foreign workers to continue working without interruption and maintain legal residency in Vietnam. This means they can keep working for their employer, participate in social activities, and resolve legal matters without interference from authorities. Moreover, renewing the TRC on time helps avoid stressful situations and allows foreign workers to handle work-related issues smoothly.

2. Conditions for Extending a Temporary Residence Card for Foreign Workers

To extend a Temporary Residence Card (TRC), foreign workers must meet certain mandatory legal conditions. These requirements are designed to ensure that foreign workers are residing and working in Vietnam within the framework of the law, avoiding violations that may affect their employment or legal status.

Passport and Work Permit Conditions

One of the most basic requirements for TRC extension is that the worker’s passport must be valid for at least one year from the date of the extension application. Additionally, the work permit must also remain valid for at least one year from the time of submitting the TRC extension documents. This ensures that the worker is not only legally residing in Vietnam but also has the right to work throughout the duration of the extended stay.

Temporary Residence Confirmation from Local Police

A temporary residence confirmation issued by the local police (ward/commune) where the worker resides is an essential part of the TRC extension dossier. This document confirms that the foreign worker has legally registered their temporary residence and is complying with local residence regulations. It allows the Immigration Department to verify the worker’s lawful presence and adherence to Vietnamese laws.

Updating Information in the Passport

If there have been any changes in the worker’s passport—such as a name change, issuance of a new passport number, or other significant updates—the worker must update these details in their official records and notify the Immigration Department. This ensures that all the information in the TRC extension application is consistent and accurate, reducing the risk of application rejection due to discrepancies.

Conditions for Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs)

For heads of office of non-governmental organizations (NGOs), it is required that the organization’s operating license remains valid for at least one year in order to extend TRCs for their employees. If the organization’s license has expired or is about to expire, the TRC extension procedure cannot be processed for employees under that organization. Therefore, NGOs must monitor the validity of their operating licenses to ensure they can successfully process TRC extensions for their staff.

Learn more: Renewing Temporary Residence Cards for Individuals Exempt from Work Permits: Procedures and Conditions

3. Temporary Residence Card Extension Procedure: Essential Steps

The process of extending a Temporary Residence Card for foreign workers involves several specific steps that must be followed to ensure the extension is carried out smoothly and efficiently.

Step 1: Prepare the TRC Extension Application Documents

The application dossier should include the following documents:

• A written request from the agency, organization, or individual responsible for inviting or sponsoring the foreign worker
• TRC application form with attached photo
• Passport of the foreign national applying for the TRC
• Business license or certificate of operation of the company employing the foreign worker
• Certified copy of the foreign worker’s work permit or work permit exemption certificate
• Initial registration form for seal and signature with the Immigration Department
• Official letter and application form requesting issuance of a TRC for the foreign national
• Declaration form requesting a TRC for the foreign national
• Introduction letter for the Vietnamese staff assigned to handle the TRC application at the Immigration Department
• Original passport
• Temporary residence confirmation or residence registration book verified by the local police (ward or commune) where the foreigner is residing in Vietnam (if available)
• Two (02) personal photos, size 2cm x 3cm

Step 2: Submit the Application to the Immigration Department

Once the documents are fully prepared, the foreign worker (or representative) should submit the application to the Immigration Department – under the Ministry of Public Security – or to another competent authority responsible for issuing TRCs.

The application must be submitted on time and in full to avoid issues related to processing delays. Submitting early can help minimize waiting time and ensure the worker receives their new TRC before the current one expires.

Step 3: Receive the Extended Temporary Residence Card

Once the application is approved, the Immigration Department will issue the new TRC to the foreign worker. The worker must go to the department to collect the new card and pay any applicable extension fees. Receiving the new TRC confirms that the extension process has been completed legally and allows the worker to continue residing in Vietnam during the extended period.

Important Notes When Extending a Temporary Residence Card

When applying for a TRC extension, foreign workers should take note of several key points:

• Submit the application at least 30 days before the current TRC expires to avoid any risks or delays.
• Ensure that all documents are complete and accurate to reduce processing time and avoid being asked to submit additional documents.

Learn more: PROCEDURE FOR APPLYING FOR AN ENTRY APPROVAL LETTER

4. Expired Temporary Residence Card: What to Do?

When a foreign worker’s Temporary Residence Card (TRC) expires, taking timely and accurate action is crucial to avoid legal complications. If the TRC is not renewed on time, the worker may face serious consequences such as administrative fines, deportation, or issues with immigration procedures. Therefore, when a TRC is about to expire—or has already expired—foreign workers must take the following steps to maintain their legal residency status.

Extension Procedure When TRC Is About to Expire

When the TRC is nearing its expiration date, the worker should prepare the extension documents and submit them as early as possible—at least 30 days before the expiry date. Applying early helps avoid last-minute emergencies and ensures that all procedures are completed on time. Since the Immigration Department requires time to review and process the application, timely submission is essential.

Handling Expired Temporary Residence Cards

If the TRC has already expired and has not been extended, the worker should immediately contact the Immigration Department for instructions and resolution. Typically, in cases where the TRC has expired, the worker will be required to explain the reason for the delay in renewing the card. Applying for an extension after the expiration date can lead to longer processing times and may result in administrative measures such as penalties. For this reason, renewing the TRC on time is the best way to avoid undesirable situations.

TRC Extension Fees

The fee for extending a TRC is usually defined based on the type of card and the extension period. Workers should clearly understand the applicable fees for their TRC type and prepare the necessary funds when submitting the application. In some cases, additional charges may apply if the extension process encounters complications or delays. The Immigration Department will provide detailed fee information at the time of application submission.

Risks of Not Renewing the TRC on Time

Failing to renew the TRC on time can lead to serious legal risks, including administrative penalties, deportation from Vietnam, or being unable to proceed with other legal procedures such as visa extensions or employment contract signings. Furthermore, an expired TRC may also negatively affect the worker’s access to other rights and benefits, such as medical care, social insurance, and other employee entitlements. To avoid these risks, foreign workers must strictly comply with the regulations regarding TRC extension.

5. Temporary Residence Card Extension Service at Wacontre

Wacontre’s Temporary Residence Card (TRC) extension service helps foreign workers resolve all matters related to extending their TRCs quickly and efficiently. With a professional team, we are committed to providing maximum support for our clients.

Fast and Efficient TRC Extension Support

Wacontre offers a quick TRC extension service that helps foreign workers save time and effort when dealing with legal procedures. We ensure that your TRC will be extended on time, allowing you to maintain your legal residency status in Vietnam.

Detailed Guidance on TRC Extension Procedures

We provide clear and detailed instructions on how to extend your TRC, helping foreign workers understand all requirements and complete the necessary steps. Wacontre’s experienced consultants are always ready to assist clients in preparing documents and handling the application process.

Why Choose Wacontre’s TRC Extension Service?

Using Wacontre’s services ensures that your TRC extension procedures are handled quickly, accurately, and legally. With years of experience in the legal field, we are committed to delivering the highest quality and most effective service to our clients.

Extending a Temporary Residence Card is an important procedure for foreign workers in Vietnam. To avoid legal issues and protect your rights, it is essential to understand the extension process and its requirements. If you need fast and efficient assistance, Wacontre’s TRC extension service will help you complete the procedure easily and on time. Contact us today for detailed consultation and timely support.

If you have any questions, please contact our Hotline at (028) 3820 1213 or email us at info@wacontre.com for prompt consultation and support. With an experienced team, Service thanhlap.wacontre.com is always ready to serve customers in the most enthusiastic and efficient manner. (For Japanese customers, please contact Hotline: (050) 5534 5505).