As Vietnam increasingly becomes a preferred destination for living, working, and investing, the Temporary Residence Card (TRC) plays a vital role for foreigners. The TRC is not only a document proving lawful residence in Vietnam but also replaces the visa, enabling convenient long-term stays, domestic travel, and administrative procedures.
So, what are the latest requirements and procedures for obtaining a TRC in Vietnam as of 2025? Let’s explore the updated legal regulations with Siglaw Law Firm.
Legal basis
The application dossier and procedures for a temporary residence card for foreigners are regulated under:
- Law No. 47/2014/QH13 on Entry, Exit, Transit, and Residence of Foreigners in Vietnam (as amended in 2019 and 2023);
- Circular No. 04/2015/TT-BCA (Ministry of Public Security) prescribing templates for immigration-related documents;
- Circular No. 22/2023/TT-BCA, dated June 30, 2023, introducing the new Form NA7;
- Circular No. 25/2021/TT-BTC of the Ministry of Finance on fees for issuing temporary residence cards.
Required documents for temporary residence card application
Application forms
Depending on the type of sponsorship, applicants must prepare the following official forms:
Form NA6: For agencies or organizations sponsoring foreigners;
Form NA7: For individuals sponsoring foreigners;
Form NA8: Application form for the temporary residence card, with a 2×3 cm photo attached.
(All forms are issued together with Circular No. 04/2015/TT-BCA and Circular No. 22/2023/TT-BCA.)
Personal documents of the foreign applicant
- Original passport (valid for at least 13 months);
- Valid visa corresponding to the correct purpose of entry;
- Two color photos (2×3 cm, white background, taken within the last 6 months).
Supporting documents proving eligibility for TRC issuance
Foreigners must provide evidence of their legal purpose of stay, according to the category of residence:
For foreign employees: Valid work permit; or Confirmation of exemption from work permit requirements.
For investors:
- Valid Investment Registration Certificate or Enterprise Registration Certificate listing the foreigner as an investor; or
- Document confirming capital contribution.
For dependents of Vietnamese citizens or foreigners residing in Vietnam:
- Marriage certificate (for spouses);
- Birth certificate (for children);=
- Household registration book or ID/Citizen ID card of the Vietnamese sponsor;
- TRC or passport of the foreign sponsor residing in Vietnam.
For students:
- Admission decision from the educational institution; or
- Confirmation of student status.
Legal documents of the sponsoring organization
For organizations or enterprises acting as sponsors:
- Certified copy of the Enterprise Registration Certificate or Operating License;
- Introduction letter specifying the company’s seal and authorized signature (submitted once; must be updated if changed).
Additional documents (if applicable)
- Letter of authorization or introduction letter for the applicant submitting the dossier;
- Written approval from relevant authorities (in special cases);
- Translated, notarized, and legalized foreign documents (unless exempted under treaties).
Number of dossiers and place of submission
A complete original dossier (01 set) should be submitted to the Immigration Management Division under the Provincial or Municipal Police Department where the sponsor (organization or individual) is headquartered or resides.
Important notes when preparing the dossier
All documents in foreign languages must be translated into Vietnamese, notarized, and consularly legalized (unless exempted);
The applicant’s passport must be valid for at least 13 months;
For foreign employees, the work permit must remain valid for at least 12 months at the time of application.
If the dossier is incomplete or invalid, the receiving authority will instruct the applicant to supplement or issue a written refusal stating the reasons.
Siglaw’s comprehensive service for temporary residence cards
The TRC application process can be complex and requires strict compliance with legal documentation.
With its experienced legal experts and deep understanding of immigration law, Siglaw provides a comprehensive service package, including:
- Consulting on eligibility and appropriate TRC types (LĐ, ĐT, TT, DH, etc.);
- Drafting and reviewing all application documents in accordance with legal requirements;
- Submitting and following up with the Immigration Department;
- Receiving and delivering the TRC directly to the client.
With Siglaw, clients are guaranteed accurate, efficient, and confidential service throughout the entire process.
Head Office in Hanoi: No. 44/A32 – NV13, Area A Geleximco, Le Trong Tan Street, Tay Mo Ward, Hanoi, Vietnam.
Email: vphn@siglaw.com.vn
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Email: vphcm@siglaw.com.vn
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