Temporary Residence Registration for Foreigners in Vietnam

Temporary residence registration for foreigners in Vietnam is a mandatory procedure for all expats who live, work, or rent and purchase property in the country. This requirement not only serves as a legal basis for residence management but also protects the rights of foreigners when applying for a Temporary Residence Card (TRC), extending visas, purchasing real estate, or accessing public services. In Ho Chi Minh City – home to one of the largest expat communities in Vietnam – understanding how to complete short-term registration and apply for a long-term TRC will help you avoid legal risks, save time, and enjoy greater peace of mind during your stay.

Short-term Temporary Residence Registration (Declaration within 24–48h)

Foreigners staying in Vietnam on a short-term basis, especially those renting apartments, houses, or serviced residences, are required to declare their residence within 24 to 48 hours after moving in. The responsibility mainly lies with the landlord, but tenants must also cooperate by providing accurate documents.

Where to register:

At the local ward or commune police office.
In Ho Chi Minh City, online registration via the police portal is available in many districts.

Required documents:

Valid passport and visa.
Lease agreement or confirmation from the landlord.
Landlord’s ID or ownership certificate (in some cases).

Process:

Landlord (or building management) fills out the temporary residence declaration form.
Submit the form either in person at the police office or via the online portal.
Receive confirmation or record of the declaration.

Penalties for non-compliance:

Administrative fines may apply to both landlords and tenants if registration is not completed on time.
Failure to declare properly may affect later applications for a Temporary Residence Card (TRC).

Temporary Residence Card (TRC – Long-term)

For foreigners who plan to live, work, or invest in Vietnam for an extended period, a Temporary Residence Card (TRC) is the most practical solution. Unlike short-term residence registration, which only serves immediate compliance, the TRC provides stability and greater legal benefits. A TRC functions as both a residence permit and a multiple-entry visa, allowing expats to stay in Vietnam without repeated visa extensions.

Eligibility:

Foreign employees with a valid work permit.
Investors or representatives of foreign companies.
Spouses and children of Vietnamese citizens or foreigners with valid TRCs.
Property buyers or long-term residents who meet legal conditions.

Required documents:

Valid passport and visa.
Work permit, investment certificate, or marriage certificate
Proof of residence (lease contract or ownership papers).
Completed TRC application form and passport-sized photos.

Validity & fees:

TRCs are issued for 1 to 5 years, depending on the applicant’s status.
Fees typically range from a few hundred USD, subject to case and duration.
Processing time is usually 5–7 working days at the Immigration Department.
Benefits:
Multiple entry and exit during the card’s validity period.
No need for repeated visa extensions.
Easier access to essential services such as banking, schooling for children, and property transactions.
Provides stronger legal standing for long-term residence in Vietnam.

Renewal:

TRC holders must apply for renewal before expiration to avoid fines or cancellation.
Updated documents (such as extended work permits or new lease agreements) are required for renewal.

TRC vs Visa: Key Differences

A Temporary Residence Card (TRC) and a visa serve different purposes in Vietnam. While a visa permits entry and short-term stay, a TRC grants long-term residence with broader benefits for daily life and work.

Purpose

Visa: Entry permission and short stays (tourism, business trips).
TRC: Long-term residence and legal stability for living/working/investing.

Validity

Visa: Short-term; requires frequent renewals or visa runs.
TRC: 1–5 years, depending on applicant category.

Legal constraints

Visa: Limited rights; harder to open bank accounts, sign long leases, or manage schooling.
TRC: Stronger legal standing for housing, banking, education, and employment.

When to use TRC instead of a visa

Long-term employment (with a work permit).
Investment or company representation.
Spouse/children joining family in Vietnam.
Property owners planning long-term residence.

Buyer vs Renter Guidance

Practical requirements differ for renters and buyers. Both must comply with residence rules, but their document sets and triggers (move-in vs ownership) are not the same.

For Renters

Lease & coordination: Keep a signed lease; coordinate with your landlord for the 24–48h declaration.
Documents: Passport, visa, lease, landlord’s ID/ownership proof if requested.
Common pitfalls: Landlord unfamiliar with online portals; mismatched tenant–landlord details; late declaration.

For Buyers

Ownership evidence: Title/ownership certificate is essential to register your residence address.
Link to TRC: TRC strengthens long-term living arrangements (banking, schooling, property management).
Change of address: Re-register your residence whenever you move or update ownership records.

HCMC-Specific Guidance (District Police & Immigration)

Ho Chi Minh City handles residence procedures at district police stations and the Immigration Department. Coordination with landlords and building management helps avoid delays.

Where to file: District police for short-term declarations; Immigration Department for TRC applications.
Expat hubs: In Thao Dien, An Phu, Binh An, ensure landlords understand the online system; confirm submission status.
Delay prevention: Prepare complete documents, verify tenant–landlord details, and follow up on online submissions.

Common Mistakes and Penalties

Late declaration beyond 24–48h.
Missing or outdated documents for TRC (e.g., expired work permit).
Mismatched information between landlord and tenant.
Consequences: administrative fines; potential delays or rejections for TRC.

FAQs

How long does TRC issuance take?
Do I need a TRC for short-term stays?
When and how should I renew my TRC?
How do I re-register after moving addresses?
Can the landlord register on my behalf?

Quick Checklist for Compliance (Optional)

Identify whether you need short-term declaration or a TRC.
Gather documents (passport, visa, lease/ownership, WP/investment/marriage if any).
File within 24–48h (declaration) or submit TRC at Immigration.
Re-register/renew when moving or before expiry.

Understanding the difference between short-term declaration and a TRC helps you stay compliant and live comfortably in Vietnam.

Contact VnRenthome – Hotline | WhatsApp | Email for support with rentals, purchases, and residence procedures.