Vietnam tightens rules for temporary residence cards

Vietnam has updated its process for issuing Temporary Residence Cards (TRCs), limiting eligibility to holders of specific visa categories and adding an extra step for many foreign nationals, according to a report by Fragomen.
The change takes effect immediately and is expected to lengthen overall processing timelines by around two weeks for affected applicants.

TRCs limited to work and dependent visas

Under the revised practice, Vietnamese authorities will now issue Temporary Residence Cards only to foreign nationals holding LD2 work visas and TT dependent visas. Applicants who entered Vietnam on other visa types will no longer be able to apply directly for a TRC.


Fragomen said foreign nationals and dependents who entered on visas such as DN1, VR or e-visas issued before work permit approval must first complete an additional visa conversion step before becoming eligible to apply for a TRC. Earlier, applicants in these categories could directly file for a TRC or a long-term visa.

Extra step to extend timelines

The added visa conversion requirement is expected to extend in-country processing timelines for Temporary Residence Cards by about two weeks, the firm said. This could affect employers and foreign workers planning start dates or longer stays in Vietnam.

To reduce delays, Fragomen noted that impacted individuals may consider deferring visa processing until after their work permit is issued, which could help streamline subsequent residence procedures.

Impact on foreign workers and families

The update applies to both foreign nationals and their dependents seeking long-term residence in Vietnam. Fragomen said the alert is for informational purposes and advised applicants to seek case-specific guidance as authorities implement the updated process.

Vietnam has been adjusting immigration procedures in recent years as it manages foreign workforce demand and compliance requirements, with the latest change adding stricter sequencing to residence card issuance.