Guide to Residency in Vietnam

Obtaining a residency visa in Vietnam is not always easy, but our Guide to Residency in Vietnam gives newcomers an overview of the steps involved and advice from others who have already navigated the process.

Please note that the process for obtaining residency status in Vietnam can be complex and may change over time. It is always best to consult with the Vietnamese embassy or consulate in your home country or a legal professional in Vietnam for the most current information. Below is a general guide presented in HTML list format: ```html

• Research Vietnamese Residency Laws
  • Visit the official website of the Vietnam Immigration Department for up-to-date information on residency laws: Vietnam Immigration Department
  • Consult with a legal professional or an immigration agency in Vietnam for personalized advice.
• Choose the Appropriate Visa
  • Decide on the type of visa that suits your purpose of stay, such as a work visa, investor visa, or marriage visa.
  • Check the requirements for the chosen visa category on the Vietnam Immigration Department website or through the Vietnamese embassy/consulate.
• Prepare Necessary Documentation
  • Gather all required documents, which may include a passport, visa application form, photos, and supporting documents related to your visa category.
  • Ensure that your passport has at least six months of validity and at least two blank pages.
• Apply for a Visa
  • Submit your visa application and required documents to the Vietnamese embassy or consulate in your home country or apply online if eligible for an e-visa.
  • Pay the visa application fee as instructed by the embassy/consulate or online payment system.
• Enter Vietnam
  • Once your visa is approved, travel to Vietnam and ensure you have all necessary documents for entry.
  • Upon arrival, follow the immigration procedures and present your visa to the border control officers.
• Apply for a Temporary Residence Card (TRC)
  • Find a local police station or immigration office to apply for a TRC within the time frame specified by your visa.
  • Prepare the TRC application form and additional documents, which may include a work permit, business license, or proof of marriage to a Vietnamese citizen.
  • Submit the TRC application and pay the required fee.
• Apply for a Tax Number
  • Visit the local tax department or their official website to obtain the tax registration form: General Department of Taxation
  • Complete the tax registration form with accurate personal and employment information.
  • Submit the form along with any required documents, such as your passport and TRC.
  • Receive your tax identification number (TIN) upon successful registration.
• Comply with Local Laws and Regulations
  • Stay informed about Vietnamese laws that affect your residency, including registration with local authorities and renewal of your TRC.
  • Ensure that you renew your TRC and visa before they expire to maintain legal residency status.

``` Remember to keep copies of all your documents and track the expiration dates of your visa and TRC to avoid any legal issues. It's also important to stay updated on any changes to immigration policies that may affect your residency status in Vietnam.

What tips do expats have about residency and visas in Vietnam?

"To enter Vietnam, foreign visitors must apply for a visa prior to their travel. Citizens from certain countries can apply for a visa on arrival, while other nationalities must apply in advance for a visa through a Vietnamese embassy or consulate in their country of origin. To apply for a visa, travelers must submit the appropriate application form, valid passport, copies of their passport and a passport photo, and the necessary visa fee. To apply for residency in Vietnam, foreign nationals must submit a valid passport, a valid visa, proof of medical insurance, a medical certificate, notarized copies of educational documents, valid return flight tickets and proof of sufficient funds. Depending on the type of visa and residence permit, additional documents may be required. After the necessary documents are submitted and approved, the foreign national can receive a residency card that is valid for one year," commented one member living in Vietnam.