Vietnam family reunification visa guide

What Is a Vietnam Family Reunification Visa?

A family reunification visa (often called a temporary residence card or visa) allows your close relatives to live with you in Vietnam for an extended period. This includes spouses, children, parents, and sometimes siblings or grandparents, depending on the specific relationship and your immigration status in Vietnam.

You must already be legally residing in Vietnam—as an employee, investor, student, or permanent resident—to sponsor family members. The person sponsoring (you) acts as the guarantor, meaning you take responsibility for your relatives' conduct and support while they're in the country.

Who Can Qualify as Family

Vietnam generally recognizes these relationships for reunification:

• Spouse or registered partner
• Children (biological or adopted)
• Parents and parents-in-law
• Grandparents (in some cases)
• Siblings (requirements vary)

Each relationship category may have different requirements. For example, a spouse may need a marriage certificate, while a child needs a birth certificate. Check your specific situation on the official immigration website.

Documents You'll Usually Need

• Valid passport of the family member applying
• Marriage certificate (for spouse) or birth certificate (for children)
• Medical certificate proving good health
• Police clearance certificate from the applicant's home country
• Proof of your legal status in Vietnam
• Proof of accommodation (lease or property document)
• Proof of financial support or income
• Completed application forms

Requirements vary by province and your visa type. Always confirm current requirements with your local immigration office or the official government portal.

The Application Process

Start by contacting your local police station or immigration office in the province where you live. They will guide you on exact forms and procedures. Generally, you'll submit your application with all documents, and officials will review and approve or request additional information.

Processing times vary. Some applications move quickly, while others take weeks or months depending on completeness and local workload.

Important Considerations

• Your family member must pass health screening and background checks
• You may need to show proof of stable income to support them
• Once approved, they receive a temporary residence card valid for a set period (usually one to three years)
• Renewal is possible but requires re-application and updated documents
• Your family member cannot work without separate work permits in most cases

Next Steps

Visit the official Vietnamese government immigration website or go to your provincial immigration office in person. Staff can answer specific questions about your situation and provide the exact checklist of documents needed. Bring a translator if you're not comfortable with Vietnamese.

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