Impact of COVID Protocols on TRC Processing: Latest Guidelines
The COVID-19 pandemic has brought unprecedented challenges to global travel and immigration processes, and Vietnam’s Temporary Residence Card (TRC) processing is no exception. The health and safety protocols established by the Vietnamese government have affected the TRC application and renewal timelines, impacting everyone from foreign investors to digital nomads. Understanding the latest TRC guidelines, Decree 70/2023 updates, and COVID-19-related delays can help you avoid unnecessary confusion and prepare effectively for your application. In this 1,500-word guide, we will explore the impact of COVID-19 protocols on TRC processing, highlight key procedural changes, and offer tips for navigating the process smoothly in this new landscape.
1. The Shift in TRC Processing Due to COVID-19
In response to the global health crisis, Vietnam implemented a series of COVID-19 health protocols that temporarily disrupted regular immigration services. As a result, the process for obtaining or renewing a Temporary Residence Card (TRC) underwent significant adjustments to ensure compliance with health safety measures. This affected both E-Visa Vietnam applications and urgent e-visa application Vietnam cases.
Key changes in TRC processing during the pandemic included:
- Increased Processing Time: With restrictions on in-person appointments and limited staff working remotely, processing times for TRCs became lengthened. This has had a direct impact on individuals applying for their TRCs or those trying to renew or update their cards.
- Shift to Digital: The government encouraged the shift from paper-based submissions to DOLISA e-portal submissions for TRC applications and renewals. This helped reduce face-to-face interactions but added additional steps for digital submission and document verification.
- Delayed Appointments and Interviews: In many cases, the personal interviews required for certain TRC applications were delayed or postponed as a result of COVID restrictions.
These changes were implemented to keep the process compliant with safety measures while still allowing residents and foreigners to legally stay in the country.
2. Understanding the Impact on TRC Renewals and New Applications
As Vietnam began to open up and adjust to the new normal, the TRC application process evolved. Although the restrictions were gradually lifted, some protocols remain in place to ensure the safety of applicants and immigration officers alike.
A. Delays in TRC Processing Times
Since the onset of the pandemic, TRC processing times have fluctuated. In particular:
- Longer Processing Time: Applications that were typically processed in 5–7 business days began to take up to 10–14 business days due to health protocols, such as mandatory quarantine for immigration officers, and additional security measures.
- Express Processing Options: To alleviate delays, express TRC processing became an available option in certain cases. This allows applicants to expedite the approval process by paying an additional VND 100,000 express service fee.
- Limited Appointments for Interviews: For some TRC categories—such as foreign investors or expert workers—in-person interviews were a requirement. However, these were delayed for months in some provinces due to travel restrictions and quarantine protocols.
If you are planning to apply for or renew your TRC, it’s critical to start the process early, especially in light of these potential delays.
3. The Latest TRC Guidelines Under Decree 70/2023
Decree 70/2023 outlines the latest updates to Vietnam’s TRC regulations and addresses how they align with COVID-19 measures. Key updates include:
- Mandatory Digital Applications: To minimize the risk of COVID-19 transmission, all TRC applications and renewals must be submitted via the DOLISA e-portal. Applicants no longer need to visit immigration offices unless specifically instructed to do so.
- Health & Safety Documentation: As of 2023, applicants are required to submit a valid health certificate proving that they are COVID-free. This is especially important for individuals who have traveled recently or are applying for a TRC for digital nomads or foreign experts.
- Social Distancing in Offices: For in-person appointments that do take place, the number of appointments in a day has been reduced to allow for social distancing and prevent overcrowding.
The DOLISA e-portal has updated its system to accommodate these guidelines, enabling easier access to the application forms, supporting documents, and payment systems.
4. Steps to Apply for TRC During the COVID-19 Pandemic
With the DOLISA e-portal now being the primary means of application submission, digital nomads and foreign residents should follow these steps to ensure a smooth process:
A. Prepare Your Documents
Before starting the application process online, make sure you have the following documents:
- Valid Passport: Your passport should have at least six months of validity from the date you plan to submit your TRC application.
- Proof of Employment: A work permit (Form NA7) or proof of self-employment (for digital nomads) showing you are employed by a foreign company or working remotely.
- Health Certificate: A recent COVID-negative health certificate from a certified medical provider.
- Criminal Record Check: A police clearance certificate from your home country, apostilled and notarized.
- Sponsor Letter: If sponsored by a company or coworking space, a sponsorship letter must be provided.
- Proof of Address: A recent utility bill or rental agreement to confirm your current residence.
B. Submit Your Application Online
- Log into the DOLISA e-portal: The portal is where all TRC-related submissions are now processed. Make sure to enter your passport details and upload your supporting documents.
- Fill out the TRC Application Form (Form NA7): Depending on whether you’re applying for a new TRC or renewing an existing one, fill out the appropriate form.
- Submit Fees: A VND 200,000 payment is required for all applications, and an additional express surcharge of VND 100,000 may apply if you require faster processing.
- Track Your Application: You can track the progress of your application on the DOLISA e-portal, which will show the status, whether it is under review, approved, or if additional documents are needed.
C. Collect Your TRC
Once approved, you will be notified via email or SMS to collect your Temporary Residence Card from the Immigration Department. You will need to bring your passport and payment receipt to finalize the process.
5. Best Practices to Navigate COVID-19 TRC Processing
Here are some best practices to help you navigate TRC applications under COVID-19 conditions:
- Start Early: Given the processing delays caused by the pandemic, it’s crucial to submit your TRC application at least 45 days before your current visa or TRC expires.
- Check Your Health and Criminal Records: Make sure your health certificate and criminal record are current, as outdated documents can slow down your application.
- Stay Informed: Keep an eye on announcements and updates from the DOLISA e-portal for any changes to COVID-19 protocols or TRC requirements.
- Consider Professional Help: If you’re unsure about navigating the DOLISA e-portal or handling the necessary documentation, consider working with corporate business visa services Vietnam to ensure everything is done correctly.
6. Conclusion
COVID-19 has certainly impacted TRC processing times and procedures, but the introduction of DOLISA e-portal has made it easier for digital nomads and foreign residents to apply, renew, and stay legally compliant in Vietnam. By adhering to the latest Decree 70/2023 guidelines, preparing your documents properly, and submitting through the e-portal, you can ensure that your TRC is processed quickly and without complications.
Need help navigating your TRC application or renewal?
Contact 68Solutions for professional assistance—whether you’re applying for the first time, renewing your TRC, or need help with urgent e-visa application Vietnam. We’ll guide you every step of the way to ensure smooth processing and legal compliance:
📧 68s.marketing@gmail.com | ☎️ (+84) 98 2500 802
