Residency in Vietnam
Vietnam has become a popular destination for foreigners due to its low cost of living, beautiful landscapes, and warm climate. If you plan on moving to Vietnam, it’s important to know what types of residency are available and the process for obtaining residency status. In this article, we’ll discuss the different types of residency in Vietnam, the application process, required documents, registration with government departments, and where to find reliable information on residency in Vietnam.
Types of Residency in Vietnam
Temporary Residence Card
A temporary residence card (TRC) is issued to foreign nationals who wish to stay in Vietnam for a period of more than three months. The TRC is valid for one to three years and can be renewed. A TRC is required for foreigners who will be working in Vietnam, studying, or conducting business.
Permanent Residence Card
A permanent residence card (PRC) is issued to foreign nationals who have been living in Vietnam for at least five years and have a work permit or business visa. The PRC is valid for 10 years and can be renewed. With a PRC, foreign nationals can stay in Vietnam indefinitely, work without a work permit, and have access to public services such as healthcare and education.
Work Permit
A work permit is required for foreign nationals who wish to work in Vietnam. The work permit is issued for a period of one to three years and can be renewed. The work permit is tied to a specific job and employer, so if the foreign national changes jobs, a new work permit must be obtained.
Business Visa
A business visa is required for foreign nationals who wish to conduct business in Vietnam. The business visa is valid for one to three months and can be extended. The business visa is not a work permit, and foreign nationals are not allowed to work while on a business visa.
Applying for Residency in Vietnam
The application process for residency in Vietnam depends on the type of residency being applied for. Here are the general steps for obtaining residency in Vietnam:
- Determine the type of residency needed and gather the necessary documents.
- Submit the application at the appropriate government agency, such as the immigration office or embassy.
- Wait for approval and obtain the necessary residency card or permit.
Required Documents
The documents required for residency in Vietnam vary depending on the type of residency being applied for. Here are some common documents that may be required:
- Passport with at least six months of validity remaining
- Visa or visa exemption certificate
- Work permit (if applicable)
- Business registration certificate (if applicable)
- Health certificate
- Criminal record certificate
- Two passport-sized photos
It’s important to note that some documents may need to be translated and notarized.
Registering with Government Departments
Foreign nationals are required to register with the local police within 24 hours of arriving in Vietnam. The registration can be completed at a local police station or through the landlord or hotel where the foreign national is staying. Foreign nationals are also required to report any change of address to the local police within 24 hours.
Where to Find Reliable Information
The best place to find reliable information on residency in Vietnam is through the government agency responsible for issuing the residency card or permit. For example, the Ministry of Public Security is responsible for issuing the temporary and permanent residence cards, while the Ministry of Labor, Invalids, and Social Affairs is responsible for issuing work permits. The Vietnamese Ministry of Foreign Affairs: The Ministry of Foreign Affairs provides information on visa and residency requirements for expats moving to Vietnam. (https://www.mof.The Vietnamese embassy or consulate in the foreign national’s home country can also provide information on obtaining residency in Vietnam.