Detailed comparison: Temporary Residence Card and Long-Term Visa in Vietnam – Which option is right for you?
When foreigners plan to live, work, or invest long-term in Vietnam, one of the most common questions is:
Should I apply for a long-term visa or a temporary residence card?
The article below from Vietnamworkpermit.vn will help you clearly understand the differences, conditions, benefits, and guide you to the most appropriate choice for your case.
I. Overview of Temporary Residence Card and Long-Term Visa
|
Criteria |
Temporary Residence Card (TRC) |
Long-term Visa |
|
Nature |
A document that replaces a visa, issued to foreigners residing long-term in Vietnam |
A type of visa with a long validity (3–12 months), allowing multiple entries |
|
Validity |
1 year – 5 years (depending on TRC type) |
Maximum 1 year (DN1, LD1, TT, etc.) |
|
Who is it issued to? |
Foreign workers with work permits, investors, dependents, international students, etc. |
Foreign workers, investors, business travelers, family visitors, etc. |
|
Extension |
Can be extended by applying for a new TRC |
Extended by applying for a new visa |
|
Main benefits |
No need to go through entry – exit procedures frequently |
Suitable for those who do not reside frequently or travel often |
|
Required documents |
Requires work permit/investment certificate/marriage certificate and sponsorship from an organization or individual in Vietnam |
More flexible procedures, does not require long-term residence or strict sponsorship |
II. When Should You Choose a Temporary Residence Card?
Suitable for:
- Foreigners working long-term in Vietnam with work permits (LD1/LD2)
- Investors (under categories DT1–DT4)
- Foreigners married to Vietnamese citizens
- International students at licensed educational institutions
Benefits:
- No need to apply for a visa repeatedly
- Eligible to open bank accounts, rent housing, register temporary residence, purchase insurance, and re-enter Vietnam without additional procedures
- Convenient for long-term and stable living in Vietnam
III. When Should You Choose a Long-Term Visa?
Suitable for:
- Foreigners newly arriving in Vietnam to explore the market
- Short-term workers or business travelers
- Foreign visitors visiting relatives without frequent residence
- Those not yet eligible for a TRC (no work permit/marriage certificate, etc.)
Benefits:
- Fast processing, lower cost
- Suitable for short-term or flexible residence plans
IV. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. I have a DN1 visa. Can I apply for a TRC?
=> Yes, if you have a work permit and your company provides sponsorship.
2. Does a TRC replace a visa?
=> Yes. While your TRC is valid, you do not need to apply for a visa.
3. How long is a TRC valid?
=> From 1 year to a maximum of 5 years, depending on the type:
- TRC for foreign workers: up to 2 years
- TRC for investors: 1 – 5 years depending on capital amount
- TRC for dependents: based on the sponsor’s validity period
V. Expert Advice from Vietnamworkpermit.vn
- If you plan to stay in Vietnam long-term, settle down, work, or invest, the Temporary Residence Card is the most ideal and cost-effective option.
- If you are not yet certain about long-term residence or just starting in Vietnam, the long-term visa is a safe and flexible first step.
Contact Vietnamworkpermit.vn – Professional Services for TRC and Vietnam Visa
We provide consultation, document processing, legal representation, and 100% support throughout the process of applying for a TRC or long-term visa, with a commitment to:
- Fast processing – Legal compliance – Transparent fees
- Multilingual support
- All-in-one service from A to Z
Vietnamworkpermit.vn
Hotline: 0868 25 75 32 | +84 243 56 26 100
Email: [email protected]
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Website: Vietnamworkpermit.vn
