In the context of global economic integration, the need for foreigners to reside long-term in Vietnam for work, investment, or visiting relatives is increasing rapidly. However, administrative procedures regarding immigration are often quite complex and require a deep understanding of current laws. Our temporary residence card services were created to help clients streamline the process, ensure legal compliance, and save maximum time. So, what exactly is a temporary residence card?
1. TRC Services and What is the Concept of a TRC?
What is a TRC and its legal significance?
A Temporary Residence Card (TRC) is a document issued by the immigration authority or the competent authority of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs to foreigners permitted to reside for a specific period in Vietnam. In terms of value, a TRC can replace a visa while the card remains valid. Possessing this card not only facilitates multiple entries and exits for foreigners but also serves as the basis for carrying out civil transactions, purchasing apartments, or sponsoring relatives to come to Vietnam.
Subjects using diplomatic TRC services
According to regulations, the first group considered for TRC issuance includes members of diplomatic missions, consular offices, and United Nations international organizations in Vietnam. This also extends to their spouses, children under 18 years of age, and accompanying domestic workers for the duration of their term. This is a priority group with specific procedures.
TRC services for investors and experts
Foreigners entering with visas such as ĐT1, ĐT2, ĐT3 (investors) or LĐ1, LĐ2 (workers) are the main clients for TRC services. Depending on the capital contribution amount or job position (with or without a work permit), the applications will be categorized and processed differently to ensure long-term residency rights.
TRCs for journalists and students
Besides economic purposes, foreigners coming to Vietnam for study (symbol DH) or as resident press correspondents (symbol PV1) are also eligible for a TRC. Clearly understanding the initial visa symbol is the most crucial step in answering how to obtain a TRC legally.
2. TRC Duration and Common Symbols According to Regulations
When using TRC services, the issue clients care about most is the maximum permitted residency period. The duration of a TRC is not fixed for everyone but is categorized based on the visa symbol and the specific purpose of stay in Vietnam.
General rules on TRC and passport validity
An unchangeable rule that TRC service users must note is: The validity of the TRC issued must always be at least 30 days shorter than the remaining validity of the passport. Therefore, before starting the procedure, you need to carefully check your passport’s expiration date to avoid unfortunately shortening your residency period.
TRC duration for investors (ĐT1, ĐT2, ĐT3)
Each investment segment will have a different duration.
- ĐT1 card (capital over 100 billion VND) is valid for up to 10 years.
- ĐT2 card (capital from 50 billion to under 100 billion VND) is valid for a maximum of 05 years.
- ĐT3 card, which is more common (capital from 03 billion to under 50 billion VND), has a duration not exceeding 03 years.
Duration for workers and journalists (LĐ, PV)
For those coming to Vietnam to work, the residency period is usually tied to the duration of their work permit. Specifically, TRCs with symbols LĐ1, LĐ2, and PV1 usually have a shorter duration, not exceeding 02 years. This provides just enough time to complete professional projects before applying for an extension.
TRCs for visiting relatives and organizations (TT, NN)
TRCs with symbol TT (visiting relatives) or NN1, NN2 (heads of representative offices) are valid for no more than 03 years. Specifically, symbols such as NG3, LV1, LV2, LS, and DH can be issued with a validity of up to 05 years. Grasping this information helps TRC service clients be more proactive in their plans to live in Vietnam.
3. How to Get a TRC for Foreigners?
Many clients often wonder how to get a TRC when the document regulations seem so strict. In reality, this process becomes simple if you prepare the correct entry visa type and documents clearly proving your purpose of stay.
Prerequisites for TRC issuance
To begin, the foreigner must enter Vietnam with an appropriate visa symbol such as LV1, LS, ĐT, DH, LĐ, or TT. Additionally, the passport must be valid, and the individual must not fall under the categories of being denied entry or having their exit temporarily suspended. Choosing a professional TRC service will help you appraise your profile right from this initial step.
Documents to prepare for TRC services
Typically, the application application file includes:
- Application form for TRC issuance
- Original passport
- 2×3 cm photos
- Supporting documents such as a Work Permit, Investment Certificate, or Marriage Registration Certificate.
Depending on the specific case, authorities may request additional supporting documents to verify the authenticity of the relationship or employment.
Procedure for submitting documents to competent authorities
After completing the application file, you need to submit it to the Immigration Department under the Ministry of Public Security. This is the primary authority with the power to review and approve. If you do it yourself, traveling and amending documents can take a lot of time, which is why many people turn to TRC services to handle every step on their behalf.
Processing time and receiving results
If the application file is valid, processing time usually takes from 05 to 07 working days. Upon receiving the card, foreigners can freely travel and reside in Vietnam according to the exact duration stated on the TRC. Ensure you always carry this card when traveling to present it when necessary.
4. Cases of Rejection When Using TRC Services
Even with a complete application file, there are cases where a card cannot be issued according to Vietnamese law. Understanding these barriers is extremely important when looking into TRC services.
Issues related to criminal and civil liability
Foreigners who are facing criminal prosecution or are defendants in civil, economic, or labor disputes will not be considered for TRC issuance. This regulation ensures the enforcement of the law and the thorough resolution of disputes in Vietnam before the individual is granted long-term residency rights.
Obligations to execute judgments and administrative penalties
If an individual is obligated to execute a criminal, civil, or economic judgment, they will also be denied a card. Similarly, failure to comply with administrative penalty decisions is a major obstacle, meaning TRC services cannot intervene to help until the obligation is fulfilled.
Financial and tax obligations to the state
One of the most common issues is owing taxes or other financial obligations to state agencies. Vietnamese law clearly states that foreigners must settle financial debts before their residency can be extended or a new card issued. This ensures transparency in the business and working activities of foreigners.
The importance of checking legal status
Before asking how to get a TRC, clients should self-review or ask a consulting firm to check if they are entangled in any of the aforementioned exclusionary clauses. Honesty and transparency in information will make the process with immigration authorities go much smoother.
Conclusion
Possessing a Temporary Residence Card is the optimal solution to help foreigners live and work long-term in Vietnam with peace of mind. Through this article, we clearly understand what a TRC is, its duration for each category, and how to get one issued legally. However, with legal regulations constantly changing, doing it yourself sometimes carries many risks. Using professional TRC services is the key to receiving the fastest, most accurate, and legal results. Let us accompany you on your journey of settling and thriving in Vietnam.
If you have any questions, please contact our Hotline at (028) 3820 1213 or email us at [email protected] 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).
