TRC, e-visa and permanent residence
| Document | Purpose | Key difference |
|---|---|---|
| e-visa | Temporary entry or stay up to 90 days | Does not give long-term residence status |
| TRC / thẻ tạm trú | Temporary residence under a qualifying legal basis | Category, sponsor and supporting documents matter |
| Permanent residence | Permanent status under specific legal conditions | Separate application; a TRC does not convert automatically |
Who can get a TRC?
| Basis | Main categories | Who confirms it |
|---|---|---|
| Work | LĐ1, LĐ2 | Vietnamese employer, work documents and permit or exemption |
| Family | TT | Eligible relative or spouse and relationship documents |
| Investment | ĐT1, ĐT2, ĐT3 | Company, investor status and investment evidence |
| Study | DH | Educational institution and enrollment |
| Other official categories | LS, PV1, NG3, LV1, LV2, NN1, NN2 and others | Relevant organization or authorized sponsor |
A tourist who wants to stay for several years must first qualify under a legal category. Paying an agency is not itself a basis for a TRC. The long-term stay guide compares the available routes.
How long is a TRC valid?
| Categories | Maximum validity |
|---|---|
| ĐT1, UĐ1, UĐ2 | Up to 10 years |
| NG3, LV1, LV2, LS, ĐT2, DH | Up to 5 years |
| NN1, NN2, ĐT3, TT | Up to 3 years |
| LĐ1, LĐ2, PV1 | Up to 2 years |
These are statutory maximums under the 2026 consolidated law. The issued card may be shorter and is limited by the passport expiry date. The card must expire at least 30 days before the passport.
Government fees in 2026
| Card validity | Government fee |
|---|---|
| Up to and including 2 years | USD 145 |
| Over 2 and up to 5 years | USD 155 |
| Over 5 and up to 10 years | USD 165 |
Circular 28/2026/TT-BTC, effective from 1 April 2026, sets these issue fees. They cover the government card fee, not translation, legalization, document preparation or legal assistance.
How long does the application take?
The Ministry of Public Security's service page lists up to five working days after it receives a complete application. Employer preparation, a work permit, translations and document legalization take additional time.
Documents to prepare
| Document group | Examples |
|---|---|
| Identity | Valid passport and current visa or immigration category |
| Application | The required TRC form |
| Photographs | Two 2 × 3 cm photos, one attached to the form |
| Sponsor | Documents from a Vietnamese legal entity or individual sponsor |
| Work | Work permit or exemption and employment basis |
| Family | Marriage or relationship certificate and sponsor documents |
| Study | Enrollment confirmation from the institution |
| Investment | Company, investment and category documents |
The exact set depends on the category. The official service also lists the passport, sponsor request and documents proving eligibility. Foreign certificates may need translation and legalization.
How to apply
- Identify the TRC category that matches your actual basis.
- Ask the employer, family sponsor, school or company to prepare their documents.
- Complete the required application form and prepare the passport, photographs and proof of eligibility.
- Submit to the provincial Immigration Management Office, through the official online service or another method listed on the government service page.
- Pay the applicable government fee and keep the receipt and appointment details.
- Collect the card or follow the postal instructions. If the application is refused, ask for the reason and correct the missing documents.
Work, family and investment categories
A work-based TRC depends on a real employer and an applicable work permit or exemption. A family category needs a qualifying relationship and sponsor. An investment category depends on the investor's actual legal status and documents. A company registration by itself does not guarantee a TRC.
After the card is issued
Keep the passport and TRC details current. A change of employer, family basis or other sponsor can affect eligibility. A TRC does not automatically replace a work permit, tax obligations or other separate approvals.
Related guides
For all long-stay routes, read how to stay in Vietnam long term, moving to Vietnam, working in Vietnam, business in Vietnam and the Vietnam e-visa guide. The BIDV account guide covers an account opened without a TRC in one documented case.
Questions and answers
Can I get a TRC with only a 90-day e-visa?
No. You need a legal basis and documents for an eligible category.
How much does a TRC cost?
The government fee is USD 145, 155 or 165 depending on the card term. Other document and service costs are separate.
How long does processing take?
The official service lists up to five working days after a complete application is received.
Can I get a TRC without a job?
Yes, if you qualify through another basis such as family, study or investment. A tourist stay alone is not enough.
Does a TRC automatically allow me to work?
No. Work authorization and any exemptions must be checked separately.
What happens to a work-based TRC after dismissal?
The basis may change or end. Resolve the immigration status with the sponsor and competent authority.
Can I open BIDV without a TRC?
Banhbao TV has one documented case using a 90-day e-visa. See the separate bank guide.