The Vietnam investor temporary residence card (DT card) is an official document issued to foreign investors who contribute capital to businesses in Vietnam. These cards are classified by the symbol DT with validity periods determined by investment amounts—DT3 for investments between VND 3-50 billion (valid up to 3 years) and DT4 for investments less than VND 3 billion (valid up to 12 months). To qualify, foreign investors need a passport valid for at least 13 months, an appropriate business visa (DT1-DT4), and proof of capital contribution.

The application requires specific documentation, including application forms, a passport, business registration certificates, and a temporary residence registration. The card offers significant benefits, including visa-free entry and exit during its validity period, eliminating the need for frequent visa renewals while simplifying business operations in Vietnam. Applications are processed by the Immigration Department within 5-7 working days with fees ranging from 80-120 USD, depending on duration.

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore everything you need to know about investor temporary residence cards in Vietnam—from eligibility requirements and documentation to application procedures, processing times, and fees—helping you navigate this essential aspect of establishing your business presence in Vietnam.

Types of Vietnam temporary residence cards for foreign investors

There are three categories of investment TRC, designated as DT1, DT2, and DT3.

Foreign nationals can renew temporary residence cards in Vietnam when the old card expires, without the need to re-enter the country.

Eligibility requirements for foreign investor TRC in Vietnam

To qualify for an investor temporary residence card, you need:

• A passport valid for at least 13 months
• A current visa with DT4 designation
• Completed temporary residence registration with local police
• Documents proving your capital contribution or investment in Vietnam

Required documents for DT Vietnam temporary residence card applications

Here are the documents you need to prepare:

• Letter of invitation and guarantee (Form NA6)
• Application form (Form NA8)
• Certificate of seal registration or notification of enterprise seal pattern
• Investment/business registration certificate showing your capital details
• Original passport (with at least 13 months validity)
• Notarized copy of Vietnamese investment visa
• Most recent entry approval letter
• Notarized copies of latest 3-month tax returns OR bank statements showing investment capital
• Temporary residence registration certificate
• Two 3cm x 4cm passport photos

How to apply for a foreign investor TRC in Vietnam?

Online temporary residence card application

You can now apply for an investor temporary residence card online, which is more convenient. You’ll need to register for a digital identity account first to use the Ministry of Public Security’s online service.

Here’s how to apply online:

Step 1. Get your documents ready

Prepare all your required documents. Having complete and correct documents will help your application go faster.

Step 2. Log in and start your application

• Go to the Ministry of Public Security’s Public Service Portal and log in (you need an account from the National Public Service Portal first).
• After logging in, search for “Temporary Residence Card” and select “Issuance of Temporary Residence Card for foreigners at the Immigration Department, Ministry of Public Security”

Proceed to “Submit Application”

Step 3. Fill in your information and upload documents

When you reach the application form, first upload your photo. Then fill in your basic details like name, birthday, and nationality. Type your Vietnam address where you live now. Upload all your documents that you prepared earlier. Check everything is correct, then click the “Agree and continue” button. Type the security code you see on screen. Finally, click “Sign application” to finish this step.

Important notes:

• If you don’t qualify for a card, you’ll get a written explanation why

• If your application is incomplete, the officer will tell you what to fix

Step 4. Pay the fee and check your application status

When your application is accepted, you’ll be told how much to pay. Pay the fee through the portal.

After submitting everything, wait 5-7 days. Then go to the tracking page, enter your application code and verification code to see your status. You’ll see one of these statuses: received, processing, or completed

In-person application method

Step 1. Prepare your documents

Get all the documents ready from the lists above. If you have documents in other languages or from other countries, you need to get them translated and notarized.

You’ll need to use a translation service company to get your documents properly notarized.

Step 2. Fill out the application forms

You need to complete:

• Form NA6 (if a company is sponsoring you) or form NA7 (if a person is sponsoring you)
• Form NA8 (your application form)

VisaNow provides guides for filling out these forms for different situations.

Step 3. Submit your application

Your sponsor submits your application at the Immigration Office where you live and work. You can submit applications Monday through Saturday morning (except holidays).

The officer will check your application:

• If everything is complete and correct, they’ll accept it, give you an appointment slip, and ask for payment. You’ll get a receipt after paying.
• If something is missing or incorrect, they’ll tell you what needs to be fixed.

Step 4. Get your card

Go to the Immigration Office on your appointment date to pick up your card. Bring your appointment slip, ID, and payment receipt.

• If your application is denied, you’ll receive a written explanation of why.

• If you requested mail delivery, follow the postal service’s instructions.

Where to apply for Vietnam investment temporary residence cards?

Processing time for Vietnam DT temporary residence card

It takes 5-7 working days to process your temporary residence card application after you submit all required documents. This applies whether you submit at the Vietnam Immigration Department office or through the online portal. When you submit your application, you will receive a receipt that shows the exact date when your card will be ready for collection.

Fees for foreign investor temporary residence card in Vietnam

Below are the temporary residence card fees for foreigners in Vietnam as issued by the Immigration Department according to circular no. 219/2016/TT-BTC by the Ministry of Finance.

Frequently asked questions about Vietnam investment TRC

VisaNow services for foreign investors temporary residence cards

VisaNow is your trusted partner for investor temporary residence cards in Vietnam. Every year, we help over 5,000 foreign staff from more than 1,000 businesses across major provinces including Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, Binh Duong, Dong Nai, and Long An.

Why choose VisaNow?

• Complete solution: We handle everything from visa applications to document translation and legalization
• Expert support: Our multilingual consultants provide accurate advice for your specific situation
• Save valuable time: Focus on your investments while we manage all paperwork and submissions
• Clear pricing: No surprises or hidden fees – know exactly what you’re paying for

Don’t let visa complications delay your investment plans in Vietnam. Let our experts handle your temporary residency service in Vietnam while you focus on business growth. Contact VisaNow immediately via HOTLINE 1900 63 63 50. We stand as your trusted partner in ensuring full compliance and protecting your interests throughout the visa process.