A Vietnam temporary residence card is valid for up to 5 years for investors DT2 (DT1: up to 10 years), 3 years for DT3 and for family members (TT), and 2 years for employees (LD1–LD2) — but never longer than the work permit, the passport or the investment certificate. Since 1 July 2026 the forms allow up to 10 years for privileged categories. When it expires a new card is issued, so start about 30 days before.
This page covers card validity. To have us handle the file, see the residence card service.
| Symbol | Holder | Maximum validity |
|---|---|---|
| DT1, DT2 | Investor, 50 billion VND and above | 10 years (DT1) / 5 years (DT2) |
| DT3 | Investor, 3 to under 50 billion VND | 3 years |
| LD1, LD2 | Employee, exempt or with a work permit | 2 years, capped by the work permit |
| TT | Spouse, children under 18 | 3 years |
What actually caps the validity
- The work permit for LD holders — a permit with 14 months left produces a 14-month card.
- The passport — the card cannot outlast it; renew the passport first if it expires inside the requested period.
- The investment certificate or project duration for DT holders.
The 2026 change
Circular 70/2026/TT-BCA, effective 1 July 2026, raised the ceiling printed on the forms from 5 to 10 years, aligning with the amended law for investors and privileged categories. See the new forms.
When it expires
The card is not extended — a new card is issued. Start about 30 days before expiry: see renewal documents and the renewal process.
Info Travel provides end-to-end immigration services for foreigners in Vietnam: approval letters, e-visas, visa extensions, residence cards and work permits. Same-day quote on Zalo/WhatsApp: +84327828822.
