Vietnam Temporary Residence Card: Who Needs It? (2026)
If you’re staying in Vietnam for more than a few months and have a legitimate long-term reason — employment, investment, study, or family ties — a Temporary Residence Card may be far more convenient than renewing visas every 90 days. Here’s how the system works.
TRC Categories and Validity (per Thông tư 33/2023)
| TRC Code | Who Qualifies | Max Validity |
|---|---|---|
| ĐT1 | Major investors (≥100 billion VND / ~$4M) | 10 years |
| NG3, LV1, LV2, LS, ĐT2, DH | Diplomats, senior workers, mid-size investors, students | 5 years |
| NN1, NN2, ĐT3, TT | NGO reps, smaller investors, family members of Vietnamese | 3 years |
| LĐ1, LĐ2, PV1 | Workers with work permits, journalists | 2 years |
What Does a TRC Do for You?
- Replaces the need to renew or change visas repeatedly — you stay legally on the TRC alone.
- Allows multiple entries without getting a new visa each time.
- Simplifies paperwork with employers, banks, and landlords in Vietnam.
- Required for certain long-term activities (e.g., opening a business bank account as a foreigner).
How to Apply
Applications are submitted to the Department of Immigration (Cục Quản lý Xuất Nhập cảnh) in the province where you reside. Required documents typically include your valid passport, the underlying visa, a sponsor letter (from employer or Vietnamese spouse), and photos. Processing typically takes 5–10 working days.
Is It Worth It for Long-Stay Tourists?
No — tourists cannot qualify for a TRC. The 90-day multiple-entry e-visa ($50) is the most practical option for extended tourist stays. If you need to stay beyond 90 days repeatedly, consider whether your situation actually qualifies you for a work visa or investor visa that would lead to a TRC.
Not sure which visa or residence option fits your situation? Our team provides clear, accurate guidance.
Talk to Our Visa Team →Mini FAQ
Can I work in Vietnam with a TRC only?
No — you still need a valid work permit (giấy phép lao động) to work legally. The TRC handles your immigration status; the work permit covers your employment authorization.
Does a TRC let me travel in and out freely?
Yes — a TRC acts as a multiple-entry document for its entire validity period. You don’t need a separate re-entry visa each time you leave.
What happens when my TRC expires?
You must renew before expiry or revert to a standard visa. Staying beyond your TRC expiry is treated the same as a visa overstay.
