Vietnam Expands VNeID Eligibility to All Foreign Nationals Legally Entering or Residing in the Country
- Editorial Team
- 21 hours ago
- 3 min read
HANOI, August 22, 2026 — Vietnam has significantly broadened eligibility for its electronic identification (VNeID) system, allowing all foreign nationals who legally enter or reside in the country to obtain an electronic identification account, effective September 28, 2026 .
The change, introduced through Decree No. 320/2026/ND-CP issued on August 13, 2026, removes a major administrative hurdle that previously limited access to foreign nationals holding a Permanent Residence Card or Temporary Residence Card .
Published: August 22, 2026 | By VisasUpdate.com Editorial Team
What Has Changed?
Aspect | Previous Framework | New Framework (From Sept 28, 2026) |
Eligibility | Limited to TRC/PRC holders | All foreigners legally entering or residing in Vietnam |
Account Levels | Level 1 and Level 2 distinctions | No level distinctions |
Processing Time | Up to 7 working days | Up to 5 working days |
Document Submission | Required for integrated documents | Not required if already in VNeID system |
Applicable Cities | Nationwide (Hanoi, HCMC) | Nationwide |
Who Is Now Eligible?
Under the new regulations, the following categories can obtain an electronic identification account upon request :
Category | Details |
Foreign Nationals | Those who legally enter or reside in Vietnam |
Organizations | Agencies and organizations established or registered in Vietnam |
Children Under 14 | Must apply with parent, legal guardian, or authorized representative |
Key Change: Previously, foreign nationals without a TRC could not obtain a VNeID account — creating practical obstacles for legal representatives of companies who did not hold the requisite residence documentation.The new regulation tackles this persistent problem.
How to Apply for VNeID
For Foreign Nationals
Step | Action |
1 | Apply in person at the provincial-level police immigration management agency |
2 | Present a valid passport or other recognized travel document |
3 | Complete the TK01 application form |
4 | Provide a Vietnamese mobile phone number |
5 | Provide an email address (if available) |
6 | Have facial images and fingerprints captured |
7 | Receive results via VNeID app, SMS, or email |
Processing Times
Scenario | Processing Time |
Biometric data already in national database | Within 2 working days |
Biometric data not available | Within 5 working days |
Organizations | Up to 10 working days |
Key Features of the New VNeID Framework
1. No More Paper Document Submission
Government agencies may no longer require individuals or organizations to submit documents that have already been integrated into the electronic identification system . A total of 206 types of documents can now be integrated — including passports, visas, vehicle registration certificates, driver's licenses, business licenses, and export-import licenses .
2. Account Locked if Phone Number Changes
If the registered mobile phone number is no longer listed under the account holder's name in the telecommunications provider's records, an electronic identification account will be automatically locked.
3. Social Security Account Integration
Decree 320 adds a new social security benefit account feature, allowing digital identity holders to integrate information such as payment accounts, e-wallets, or mobile money accounts to receive support payments, pensions, and social security payments .
4. Faster Processing Times
Applicant Type | Previous Max | New Max |
Individuals | 7 working days | 5 working days |
Organizations | 15 working days | 10 working days |
Impact on Businesses
Organisational VNeID Requirement (Since June 1, 2026)
Since June 1, 2026, companies must use their organizational VNeID accounts to complete immigration procedures, including :
Entry approval letters for foreign nationals and dependents
Visa extensions
Work visas
Exit visas
Temporary residence cards
Important: Companies whose legal representative is a foreign national previously faced significant barriers, as foreign representatives could not obtain a personal VNeID without a TRC. The new eligibility expansion should help address this obstacle .
Read Also
Quick Reference Summary
Aspect | Details |
Legal Basis | Decree No. 320/2026/ND-CP |
Issued | August 13, 2026 |
Effective Date | September 28, 2026 |
Eligibility | All foreigners legally entering or residing in Vietnam |
No Account Levels | Level 1/2 distinctions removed |
Processing (Individuals) | 2–5 working days |
Processing (Organizations) | Up to 10 working days |
Document Integration | 206 document types (66 personal, 140 organisational) |
Key Benefit | No need to submit documents already in VNeID |
Official Resources
Resource | Link |
Decree No. 320/2026/ND-CP | Available via Government Portal |
Ministry of Public Security | |
VNeID App | Available on Google Play & Apple App Store |
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