A temporary residence card is an important concept for foreigners living, working, or engaging in other activities in Vietnam. Understanding it will help foreigners navigate legal residency procedures in the country smoothly and accurately. Let’s explore with FTA Law detailed information about the temporary residence card and the conditions for applying for it in Vietnam.
1. What is a Temporary Residence Card?
A temporary residence card is an important document issued to foreigners who are eligible for temporary residence in Vietnam. According to Article 3, Clause 13 of the Law on Entry, Exit, Transit, and Residence of Foreigners in Vietnam 2014, the card is issued by the immigration authority or the competent agency of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. This card serves as a substitute for a visa, allowing the holder to reside and enjoy the rights of long-term residents in Vietnam for a specific period, depending on the type of card and the reason for stay.
For foreigners, it is not only a permit for residency but also serves as a basis for carrying out other legal procedures such as opening a bank account, registering vehicles, or accessing other services in Vietnam.
Image: It allows foreigners to reside in Vietnam with certain rights for a specified period.
2. Cases Eligible for a Temporary Residence Card
2.1 Foreign Diplomats and Staff Members
In special cases, foreign nationals who are members of diplomatic missions, consular agencies, or international organizations under the United Nations in Vietnam are eligible. This includes their spouses, children under 18 years old, and household helpers accompanying them during their assignment in Vietnam.
The temporary residence card in this case is issued under the NG3 code, as part of diplomatic policy to ensure the legal rights of those working in diplomatic missions in Vietnam.
2.2 Foreign Nationals Entering Vietnam on Special Visas
Temporary residence cards are also granted to foreigners who enter Vietnam on special types of visas. These visas include those for investors, journalists, workers, or other purposes defined by Vietnamese law. The visas with codes such as LV1, LV2, LS, DT1, DT2, DT3, NN1, NN2, DH, PV1, LĐ1, LĐ2, and TT are eligible with corresponding codes, allowing the holders to stay long-term in Vietnam for the duration of the visa.
The issuance of this card helps foreigners carry out legal activities in Vietnam without the need for visa renewals each time their visa expires.
3. Documents Required to Apply for a Temporary Residence Card for Foreigners in Vietnam
3.1 Necessary Documents
To apply for a temporary residence card, foreigners need to prepare a complete and accurate application package, including:
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A request letter from the agency, organization, or individual inviting or sponsoring the foreigner.
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The application form, with a photo of the applicant. The form must be signed by the applicant and include the sponsoring agency’s confirmation.
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A sponsorship letter (Form NA7) from the agency, organization, or individual in Vietnam.
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A valid passport that has no restrictions related to entry or residency in Vietnam.
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Documents proving eligibility, such as investment certificates, labor contracts, or residency permits.
Image:The documents required to apply for a Temporary Residence Card for foreigners in Vietnam.
4. Procedures for Issuing a Temporary Residence Card for Foreigners
4.1 Application Submission Process
The process of issuing a residence card for foreigners involves several important steps. Initially, the diplomatic, consular missions, or competent foreign agencies in Vietnam will submit the application for a NG3 card to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
For other cases (such as workers, investors, or holders of special visas), the sponsoring agency, organization, or individual will submit the application at the local immigration authority where the sponsor resides or operates.
4.2 Processing Time
The immigration authority or competent agency of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs will process the temporary residence card application within 5 working days after receiving the complete and valid documents. This timeframe may vary if additional information is required or if the documents are incomplete.
5. Validity of the Temporary Residence Card
5.1 Card Validity Duration
The validity of the temporary residence card depends on the type of visa held by the foreigner. Specifically:
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DT1 code: Valid for up to 10 years.
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NG3, LV1, LV2, LS, DT2, DH codes: Valid for no more than 5 years.
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NN1, NN2, DT3, TT codes: Valid for up to 3 years.
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LĐ1, LĐ2, PV1 codes: Valid for up to 2 years.
5.2 Renewing the Card When Expired
When the card expires, the holder will need to apply for a new one. The process is similar to the initial application, but additional proof of continued residency in Vietnam may be required.
6. Conclusion
In conclusion, the temporary residence card is an essential document for foreigners wishing to reside legally in Vietnam for an extended period, ensuring their legal rights and obligations. Understanding the relevant regulations and procedures will help foreigners maintain their residency status in Vietnam smoothly. If you need professional assistance with applying for a temporary residence card or resolving related legal matters, FTA Law is always ready to provide dedicated and efficient legal services.
Note: The information above is for reference only and does not constitute official legal advice from the FTA Law team. If you have any questions or need advice for a specific case, please contact us at: support@ftalaw.vn – We are always ready to listen and assist you.