Overview of Temporary Residence in Vietnam

Temporary residence is a mandatory procedure for foreigners living in Vietnam. There are two main types: short-term temporary residence registration and the Temporary Residence Card (TRC). Short-term registration is usually required for those renting houses or staying temporarily, while a TRC is suitable for foreigners who work, invest, or plan to reside in Vietnam for a longer period.

Who Needs to Register Temporary Residence?

Foreigners are legally required to register their residence depending on their situation:

• Expats renting apartments, villas, or serviced apartments in Ho Chi Minh City.
• Property buyers planning to settle down long-term.
• Employees with a valid work permit.
• Investors and business visa holders.
• Accompanying family members (spouse, children).

Temporary Residence Registration (Short-term)

Foreigners staying at any property must declare their stay within a short period.

Key points include:

• When to register: within 24h – 48h after moving into the property.
• Where to register: local police office of the ward/commune.
• Required documents: passport, visa, lease agreement, landlord’s details.
• Process: usually handled by the landlord, either in person or via the online police system.
• Penalties: late or missing registration may result in administrative fines for both tenant and landlord.

Temporary Residence Card (TRC – Long-term)

A TRC is necessary for foreigners who plan to stay in Vietnam for several years.

Important details:

• Eligible applicants: investors, foreign employees, foreigners married to Vietnamese citizens, dependent family members.
• Application documents: passport, work permit/investment papers/marriage certificate, application form.
• Validity: 1 – 5 years.
• Benefits:
  • No need for multiple visa extensions.
  • Unlimited entry and exit during the card’s validity.
  • Easier access to housing, banking, and business services.
• Fees & processing time: generally a few hundred USD; 5 – 7 working days.

Specific Notes for Expats in Ho Chi Minh City

Ho Chi Minh City has its own practical aspects when it comes to residence registration.

• Procedure location: at district police stations or the Immigration Department.
• Tenants: must coordinate with landlords for timely registration.
• Property buyers: should prepare contracts, ownership certificates, and related documents.
• Real-life example: many expats in Thao Dien (District 2) face delays because landlords are not familiar with online registration – a common issue to watch out for.

Common Mistakes and Penalties

Some frequent mistakes can lead to fines or rejection of applications:

• Failing to declare within the required timeframe.
• Submitting incomplete TRC documents (missing work permit or proof of family ties).
• Providing inconsistent information between landlord and tenant.

FAQs about Temporary Residence Registration

• How long does it take to get a TRC? → Usually 5 – 7 working days.
• Do I need a TRC if I only rent short-term? → No, short-term registration is sufficient.
• How to renew a TRC when it expires? → Submit a renewal application at the Immigration Department before the expiration date.
• Do I need to re-register if I change my address? → Yes, you must notify the local police office at your new residence.

Temporary residence registration is an essential procedure for foreigners in Vietnam, especially in Ho Chi Minh City. Whether you stay short-term or plan for long-term living, expats should distinguish between temporary residence registration and a Temporary Residence Card to prepare the right documents.

If you are renting or buying a home and need assistance with temporary residence procedures, contact VnRenthome – Hotline, WhatsApp, Email for fast and reliable support.