Notable Highlights in the Draft Regulation on Issuing VNeID Accounts for Foreigners

In the context of Vietnam’s strong push for national digital transformation, the fields of public administration, digital identification, and electronic authentication play a crucial role in reducing administrative procedures, enhancing transparency, and increasing convenience for citizens.

To expand access to online public services, the Bộ Công an is currently seeking public feedback on a draft amendment to the Decree on digital identification and authentication.

One of the most notable changes in the draft is the extension of eligibility for VNeID accounts to foreigners who legally reside in Vietnam for at least 90 days — including children from the age of 6.

If approved, this regulation will make it easier for foreigners to carry out administrative procedures, access public services, handle residence-related procedures, and complete online authentication — contributing to building a modern, transparent, and user-friendly administrative system.

A. Key updates in the draft amendment on VNeID accounts for foreigners in Vietnam

Note: Once implemented, foreigners in Vietnam will be able to complete administrative and public service procedures online more easily, without having to present multiple original paper documents.

B. Benefits of VNeID accounts for foreigners

1. Greater convenience for administrative and online transactions

Foreigners can use their VNeID accounts to verify their identity when accessing online public services such as:

• Registering or renewing residency;
• Applying for permits and fulfilling tax obligations;
• Signing electronic contracts, banking transactions, and other administrative procedures.
  👉 This will significantly reduce waiting times and administrative burdens.

2. Fewer paper documents and less in-person contact

Instead of carrying multiple physical documents and visiting administrative offices, users can complete most procedures online — saving time, effort, and costs.

3. Enhanced legal validity and security

Personal information and biometric data (such as photos and fingerprints) help ensure secure transactions, reducing risks of forgery and fraud.

4. Unified and interconnected digital records

With a VNeID account, foreigners’ personal data will be integrated with national databases, minimizing duplicate information and supporting more efficient state management.

5. A more open and inclusive digital environment

This policy reinforces Vietnam’s image as a modern, transparent, and internationally integrated country — making it more welcoming for foreigners living, studying, and working here.

Conditions for foreigners to obtain a VNeID account

• Legal residence in Vietnam: possession of a valid temporary residence card, permanent residence card, or long-term visa.
• Minimum legal stay: at least 90 days in Vietnam or a valid long-term visa.
• Age requirement: from 6 years old and above (including foreign children).
• Valid identification: passport or international travel document.
• Contact information: a registered mobile phone number (if any) and/or email to receive application results.

C. Conclusion & Recommendations

Expanding VNeID account eligibility to foreigners is a significant step forward in Vietnam’s digital transformation and administrative reform. If the draft is officially enacted, foreigners will benefit from streamlined procedures and improved services, while the state strengthens its citizen and residence management system with greater transparency and efficiency.

To ensure the policy is effectively implemented and protects individual rights, it is essential to:

• Provide transparent information about personal data privacy and security.
• Ensure timely implementation and adequate support for foreigners (including language assistance and technical guidance).
• Widely disseminate information so that foreign residents and communities understand their rights, conditions, and registration procedures.