Avoid Delays: TRC Renewal in Vietnam – A Complete Guide for Foreigners (2026)

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If your Temporary Residence Card (TRC) is about to expire, don’t wait until the last minute.

Overstaying or missing the renewal deadline may result in fines, immigration complications, or interruptions to your legal stay in Vietnam. Understanding the renewal timeline, required documents, and procedures can help you maintain continuous legal residence and avoid unnecessary risks.

In this guide, 68 Solutions explains everything foreigners and sponsoring organizations need to know about TRC renewal in Vietnam in 2026.

How to Renew a Temporary Residence Card (TRC) in Vietnam

Can an Expired TRC Be Renewed?

In certain cases, foreign nationals may still be eligible to apply for a new TRC or complete additional immigration procedures after a TRC expires, subject to their legal status, sponsorship status, and current eligibility.

The validity period of a renewed TRC depends on the category of residence:

  • DT1: Up to 10 years
  • NG3, LV1, LV2, LS, DT2, DH: Up to 5 years
  • Other categories: Typically 1 to 3 years

Applications are submitted to the Vietnam Immigration Department or the relevant provincial immigration office.

  • A valid sponsor in Vietnam is required, which may include:
  • An employer
  • A company or organization
  • An investor entity
  • An eligible family member

The sponsor must match the applicant’s purpose of stay in Vietnam.

When Should You Renew Your TRC in Vietnam?

The importance of Temporary Resident Cards (TRCs)
The importance of Temporary Resident Cards (TRCs)

Although Vietnamese regulations do not specify a mandatory minimum submission period, applicants are strongly advised to submit their TRC renewal application 5–10 working days before the expiration date.

Applying early helps:

  • Avoid overstaying
  • Prevent administrative penalties
  • Ensure uninterrupted legal residence
  • Allow sufficient time to resolve any additional document requests

In most cases, processing takes up to 5 working days after the immigration authority receives a complete and valid application.

Actual processing times may vary depending on the province and individual circumstances.

Documents Required for TRC Renewal in Vietnam

Document requirements vary depending on the applicant’s sponsorship type and purpose of stay.

Company or Organization Sponsored Applicants

General documents include:

  • NA6 application form (1 original)
  • NA8 application form (1 original)
  • Original passport
  • Current TRC
  • Visa (if applicable)
  • Two 2×3 cm photos
  • Temporary residence confirmation
  • Employer’s introduction letter

Additional documents by category:

Employment (LD1, LD2)

  • Notarized Work Permit or Work Permit Exemption Certificate

Investment (DT1, DT2, DT3)

  • Notarized Investment Certificate or Business Registration Certificate
  • Documents proving capital contribution

Family Visit

  • Documents proving family relationships, such as:
  • Marriage certificate
  • Birth certificate
  • Family registration documents

Documents for Family-Sponsored Applicants

Applicants sponsored by family members must prepare:

  • NA7 application form (1 original)
  • NA8 application form (1 original)
  • Original passport
  • Current TRC
  • Visa (if applicable)
  • Two 2×3 cm photos
  • Proof of family relationship

Supporting documents may include:

  • Marriage certificate
  • Birth certificate
  • Family certificate
  • Household registration documents

Important note:

Foreign-issued documents may need to be:

  • Consular legalized (if applicable)
  • Translated into Vietnamese
  • Notarized

Always use the latest application forms issued by the Ministry of Public Security.

Step-by-Step TRC Renewal Process in Vietnam

Step 1: Prepare the application dossier

Gather all required documents based on your sponsorship type and purpose of stay.

Step 2: Submit the application

Applications can be submitted at:

  • Provincial Immigration Offices
  • Vietnam Immigration Department (in specific cases)

If the application is complete:

  • A receipt will be issued
  • Applicable government fees will be collected

If documents are missing:

  • Additional documents will be requested

Step 3: Receive the renewed TRC

On the appointment date, applicants should present:

  • Application receipt
  • Passport or identification documents
  • Payment confirmation (if required)

If approved, the new TRC will be issued.

If rejected, the immigration authority will provide a written explanation

Penalties for Late TRC Renewal

Overstaying may lead to administrative penalties under applicable Vietnamese regulations.

Penalties generally increase based on the duration of the overstay:

 

Overstay Period

Potential Fine

Under 16 days

500,000 – 2,000,000 VND

16 – 30 days

5,000,000 – 10,000,000 VND

30 – 60 days

10,000,000 – 15,000,000 VND

60 – 90 days

15,000,000 – 20,000,000 VND

90 – 180 days

20,000,000 – 25,000,000 VND

180 days – 1 years

25,000,000 – 30,000,000 VND

Over 1 year

30,000,000 – 40,000,000 VND

 

Depending on the circumstances, prolonged overstays may also result in additional immigration consequences. Applicants should always verify the latest regulations before relying on specific penalty amounts.

Key Recommendations for Foreign Nationals

To avoid delays and legal complications, consider the following:

  • Submit your renewal application 5–10 working days before expiration.
  • Verify that your sponsorship remains valid.
  • Ensure all supporting documents are translated and notarized if required.
  • Keep your temporary residence declaration updated.
  • Seek professional guidance for complex cases

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

  1. Can I renew my TRC after it has expired?

In some situations, yes. However, additional immigration procedures and penalties may apply depending on your legal status and overstay duration.

  1. How long does TRC renewal take in Vietnam?

Typically, up to 5 working days after submitting a complete application.

  1. Can I renew my TRC without a sponsor?

No. A valid sponsor is generally required for TRC applications in Vietnam.

  1. Do I need a new Work Permit to renew my TRC?

It depends on your TRC category and the validity of your existing Work Permit or Work Permit Exemption Certificate.

How 68 Solutions Can Help

Renewing a Temporary Residence Card can become complicated if documents are incomplete, sponsorship conditions change, or multiple immigration procedures are involved.

At 68 Solutions, we provide comprehensive support throughout the process, including:

  • Eligibility assessment
  • Document review and preparation
  • TRC application support
  • Work Permit and Work Permit Exemption assistance
  • Visa and immigration guidance
  • Legalization and related procedures

Our team helps foreign nationals, employers, investors, and families navigate Vietnam’s immigration requirements efficiently while minimizing delays and legal risks.

Schedule a consultation now