Procedures and documents for extending temporary residence cards for foreigners

The extension of temporary residence cards for foreigners in Viet Nam is regulated by the Law on Entry, Exit, Transit and Residence of Foreigners (Law 47/2014/QH13 amended 51/2019/QH14) and the latest guidelines from the Immigration Management Department. Foreigners working, investing, or visiting relatives may apply for an extension if they meet all legal requirements.

The extension of temporary residence cards for foreigners in Viet Nam is regulated by the Law on Entry, Exit, Transit and Residence of Foreigners (Law 47/2014/QH13 amended 51/2019/QH14) and the latest guidelines from the Immigration Management Department. Foreigners working, investing, or visiting relatives may apply for an extension if they meet all legal requirements.

I. LEGAL BASIS

·        Law on Entry, Exit, Transit and Residence of Foreigners (2014).

·        Amended Law 2019.

·        Decree 144/2021/ND-CP on administrative penalties.

·        Guidance from the Immigration Management Department.

II. CAN EXPIRED TEMPORARY RESIDENCE CARDS BE EXTENDED?

Yes. Foreigners may extend their residence card if they meet the legal requirements and still have a valid purpose of stay.

III. WHEN SHOULD THE EXTENSION BE SUBMITTED?

It is recommended to submit the application 5–10 working days before the card expires.

IV. REQUIRED DOCUMENTS

A. For foreigners sponsored by enterprises/organizations

·        Forms NA6 and NA8.

·        Original passport, visa, old residence card.

·        Two (02) photos sized 2×3 cm.

·        Temporary residence confirmation.

·        Introduction letter from company.

·        Supporting documents:

·        • Work: Work permit or exemption certificate.

·        • Investment: Investment certificate, capital contribution proof.

·        • Family visit: Documents proving family relationship.

B. For foreigners sponsored by Vietnamese citizens

·        Forms NA7 and NA8.

·        Original passport/visa/residence card.

·        Photos sized 2×3 cm.

·        Documents proving family relationship (notarized translation if required).

V. SUBMISSION LOCATIONS

1.      Immigration Department – Ha Noi.

2.      Immigration Office – Ha Noi City Police.

3.      Immigration Department – Ho Chi Minh City.

4.      Immigration Office – HCMC Police.

5.      Immigration Offices of provincial Police Departments.

VI. PROCESSING TIME

·        Normal processing time: 05 working days.

VII. COMMON MISTAKES

·        Passport valid for less than 13 months.

·        Work permit valid for less than 12 months.

·        Incorrect visa purpose.

·        Missing temporary residence declaration.