Documents needed for a Vietnam residence permit

What You Need for a Vietnam Residence Permit

A residence permit in Vietnam allows foreign nationals to stay in the country legally for an extended period. The exact documents you'll need depend on your reason for staying — whether it's work, business, family, or study. However, most applications share common requirements.

Core Documents Everyone Needs

Start with your identity and travel paperwork. You'll typically need:

• Valid passport with at least 6 months of validity remaining
• Passport copies (usually 2–4 copies, depending on the province)
• Current visa or entry stamp in your passport
• A completed residence permit application form

Your local immigration office will provide the application form, or you can download it from their website.

Proof of Financial Support

Immigration wants to know you can support yourself. Required documents often include:

• Bank statements showing regular income or savings
• Employment contract or letter from your employer
• Proof of business registration (if you're self-employed or own a business)
• Sponsor letter from a Vietnamese employer or family member

The amount required varies by location and situation, so check with your specific provincial immigration office.

Employment and Work-Related Documents

If you're working in Vietnam:

• Valid work permit or approval letter from your employer
• Employment contract in Vietnamese and English
• Company registration certificate

If your employer is sponsoring you, they may need to submit documents directly to immigration as well.

Medical and Personal Documents

Most provinces require:

• Medical certificate (usually from a certified clinic or hospital in Vietnam)
• Police clearance or background check from your home country
• Marriage certificate (if applicable, usually notarized and translated)
• Birth certificate (for dependents)

Housing Documentation

You'll need proof of where you're living:

• Rental agreement or property lease
• Landlord identification and signature
• Certificate of residence from your accommodation

Some apartments or hotels provide a letter confirming your stay instead.

Important Reminders

Processing requirements and specific documents vary significantly between provinces. What's required in Ho Chi Minh City may differ from Hanoi or Da Nang. Additionally, rules change periodically, so you should always:

• Contact your local immigration office first
• Visit the official government immigration website
• Allow extra time for document translation and notarization
• Keep copies of everything you submit

Submit all documents well in advance of your current visa's expiration date. Most immigration offices prefer applications at least two weeks before your visa expires.

This is general self-help information, not legal advice. Always verify current rules on the official government website.