A Vietnam temporary residence card, usually called a TRC, allows an eligible foreign national to reside in Vietnam for the period shown on the card and use it in place of a visa for entry and exit while it remains valid. For foreign investors, employees and families, the application starts with choosing the correct category and gathering the evidence that supports it.
This guide explains the main categories, required documents, current application forms, government fees and submission steps.
Who Can Apply for a Vietnam Temporary Residence Card?
The following table covers the categories most relevant to business owners, employees and their families. The investment and employment categories come from Law 51/2019/QH14; the preferential categories were added by Law 118/2025/QH15.
| Category | Who it covers | Maximum card term |
| DT1 / ĐT1 | Foreign investor or qualifying representative of a foreign investing organisation with contributed capital of VND 100 billion or more, or a qualifying government-designated incentive investment | 10 years |
| DT2 / ĐT2 | Contributed capital from VND 50 billion to below VND 100 billion, or an eligible government-designated encouraged activity | 5 years |
| DT3 / ĐT3 | Contributed capital from VND 3 billion to below VND 50 billion | 3 years |
| LD1 / LĐ1 | Employees in the applicable work-permit-exempt category | 2 years |
| LD2 / LĐ2 | Foreign employees who require a work permit | 2 years |
| TT | Eligible family members of Vietnamese citizens or foreign sponsors, as explained below | 3 years |
| UD1 / UĐ1 | Qualifying high-quality digital-technology personnel and other persons entitled to preferential treatment under the specified legislation | 10 years |
| UD2 / UĐ2 | Spouses and children under 18 of UD1 holders | 10 years |
A DT4 investor with contributed capital below VND 3 billion is not included in the investor TRC categories. If the investor also qualifies through employment or family status, that separate route can be assessed on its own requirements.
The preferential UD categories took effect under the amendments from 1 July 2026. They target legally defined eligible people; ordinary employment in a technology company does not by itself establish the preferential status. Prepare evidence of the relevant recognition or qualifying status alongside the sponsor’s application.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How Long Can I Live In Vietnam
- The length of time you can live in Vietnam depends on your visa type. Tourist visas typically allow stays of 15 to 90 days, while long-term residence is possible with work, business, or retirement visas, which may be extended or renewed. For permanent residency, specific eligibility criteria must be met.
How much is a TRC card in Vietnam?
- The cost of a Temporary Residence Card (TRC) in Vietnam typically ranges from USD 145 to USD 320, depending on the card’s validity period. As of current immigration fee schedules, a 1-year TRC costs around USD 145, a 2-year TRC about USD 200, and a 3-year TRC up to USD 320. These fees are subject to change and may vary slightly depending on the processing agency.
How to get a temporary residence card in Vietnam?
- To get a Temporary Residence Card (TRC) in Vietnam, a foreigner must be sponsored by an eligible entity such as an employer, educational institution, or family member (for spouses or dependents of Vietnamese citizens or TRC holders). Required documents typically include a valid passport, visa, supporting documents from the sponsor (e.g., work permit, business license, or marriage certificate), and application forms submitted to the Vietnam Immigration Department. The card is usually valid for 1–3 years depending on the applicant's status. Processing takes about 5–7 working days.
What qualifies as a temporary residence?
- In Vietnam, a temporary residence is a legal status granted to foreigners who stay in the country for an extended period but do not hold permanent residence. It is typically documented by a Temporary Residence Card (TRC), valid for 1 to 5 years, issued to foreign investors, employees, or dependents who meet specific visa and sponsorship requirements. Renting a house or apartment registered with local authorities also qualifies as proof of temporary residence for visa or tax purposes.
