How to get TRC in Vietnam is a common concern for foreigners planning to live, work, or invest in the country long term. A Temporary Residence Card (TRC) allows eligible foreigners to stay in Vietnam legally without the need for frequent visa renewals. Under the updated 2026 immigration regulations, understanding the application process and eligibility conditions is essential for investors, foreign employees, and business owners.
1. Legal definition of a Vietnam TRC
According to Article 3 of Law No. 47/2014/QH13 (amended by Law No. 51/2019/QH14 and updated by the 2025 Security and Order Law Amendments), a vietnam trc is a document issued by the immigration authority or the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. It is granted to foreigners who are permitted to reside for a specific period in Vietnam.
Unlike a standard visa, a trc vietnam functions as an entry and exit visa, allowing holders to travel internationally without the need for multiple visa applications.
2. Who is Eligible? (TRC Vietnam requirements)
Under Article 36 of the Law on Entry, Exit, Transit and Residence of Foreigners, not everyone can apply for a vietnam trc card. Eligibility is strictly categorized:
- Foreign Investors (Codes ĐT1, ĐT2, ĐT3): Based on the value of contributed capital.
- Foreign Workers (Codes LĐ1, LĐ2): Must possess a Work Permit or Exemption certificate valid for at least 12 months.
- Professionals & Experts: Lawyers licensed by the Ministry of Justice or specialized experts.
- Family Members (Code TT): Spouses, parents, and children under 18 of trc in vietnam holders or Vietnamese citizens.
To meet the trc vietnam requirements, your passport must be valid for at least 13 months, and you must have completed a temporary residence declaration at the local police station (ward or commune level) where you reside.
3. Major Vietnam TRC benefits
Understanding how to get a trc in vietnam is vital because of the immense benefits it provides:
- Long-term Residency: Stay legally without frequent exits.
- Banking & Property: trc card vietnam holders can open local bank accounts and purchase apartments under current housing regulations.
- Family Reunification: Holders of ĐT1, ĐT2, ĐT3, and LĐ1 cards have the right to sponsor a vietnam trc visa for their immediate family.
- Administrative Ease: Simplifies business registrations, marriage procedures, and other civil acts within the territory.
4. Vietnam TRC application: Step-by-Step
In 2026, the vietnam trc application is primarily processed through the National Public Service Portal (dichvucong.gov.vn). Follow these steps to ensure a smooth process:
- Step 1: Document Preparation: Gather the vietnam trc application dossier, including Form NA6/NA7, Form NA8, and your original passport.
- Step 2: Legalization: Ensure all foreign documents (Birth/Marriage certificates) are consular legalized and notarized into Vietnamese.
- Step 3: Online Submission: Upload the digital dossier to the Public Service Portal using the sponsoring company’s digital signature.
- Step 4: Fee Payment: Pay the government fee (ranging from 145 USD to 165 USD) via the portal’s payment gateway.
- Step 5: Result Collection: After 5–7 working days, receive the physical trc in vietnam at the Immigration Department or via post.
Required dossier (standard case):
- Form NA6 (for organizations) or Form NA7 (for individuals).
- Form NA8 (Official application form with a 3x4cm photo).
- Original Passport (valid for at least 13 months).
- Supporting legal documents: Work Permit, Investment Certificate, or Birth/Marriage certificates (Must be consular legalized and notarized into Vietnamese).
Once you know how to get trc in vietnam, you must submit these to the Immigration Department. Processing typically takes 5 to 7 working days from the receipt of a complete dossier.
5. Validity, codes and fees
The validity of a trc vietnam is tied to its code and the remaining duration of your passport (the card expires at least 30 days before the passport).
| Code | Eligible Subject | Max Validity | Government Fee |
| ĐT1 | Capital of 100 Billion VND or more | 10 Years | 165 USD |
| ĐT2 | Capital 50 – 100 Billion VND | 5 Years | 155 USD |
| ĐT3 | Capital 3 – 50 Billion VND | 3 Years | 155 USD |
| LĐ1/LĐ2 | Foreign Labor with Work Permit | 2 Years | 145 USD |
| TT | Family members/dependants | 3 Years | 155 USD |
Reference: Circular No. 25/2021/TT-BTC (formerly Circular 219/2016/TT-BTC) regarding immigration fees.
Failure to maintain a valid trc in vietnam or overstaying can result in administrative fines or deportation, depending on the severity of the violation.
6. Important updates for 2025
Under Decree 168/2025/ND-CP, investors must now comply with the new UBO (Ultimate Beneficial Owner) disclosure requirements. Failure to report the true owner of an enterprise can lead to the revocation of an investor’s trc card vietnam.
Furthermore, if you are an investor with capital under 3 Billion VND (Code ĐT4), you are eligible for a 12-month visa only and cannot apply for a vietnam trc card.
7. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I apply for a TRC with an E-visa?
No. To apply for a trc vietnam, you must first convert your status to a sponsored visa (like LĐ or ĐT) through a sponsoring company or family member.
What happens if my passport expires in 6 months?
You cannot get a TRC. The trc vietnam requirements state that your passport must have at least 13 months of validity, as the TRC is issued for a minimum of 1 year and must expire 30 days before your passport.
Does a TRC replace a Work Permit?
No. For workers, the Vietnam Work Permit is the prerequisite to get the TRC. The Work Permit allows you to work; the TRC allows you to stay.
How to get TRC in Vietnam is not just a procedural question but a crucial legal step for foreigners seeking long-term stability in the country. With constantly evolving immigration regulations, ensuring that your eligibility, documents, and application process fully comply with Vietnamese law is essential to avoid delays or rejections. Whether you are an investor, foreign employee, or accompanying family member, a properly issued TRC provides the legal foundation for residence, business activities, and daily life in Vietnam.
At Tica Trustlegal, we combine in-depth legal expertise with hands-on experience to guide clients through every stage of the TRC process. From eligibility assessment to dossier preparation and submission, our team ensures your application is handled accurately, efficiently, and in full compliance with current regulations. If you are seeking clarity on how to get TRC in Vietnam without unnecessary risk, professional guidance can make all the difference.
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