Vietnam Starts E-ID Registration for Foreigners: Details and Benefits

Published Date : 7/3/2025 

Vietnam has initiated a 50-day e-ID registration campaign for foreign nationals, aiming to expand digital identity access. The Level-2 e-ID system offers benefits like secure banking, public service access, and digital document storage. Learn how to apply, eligibility criteria, and the government's vision for a super app. 

Vietnam has kicked off a major initiative to streamline digital identity management for foreign nationals, launching a 50-day e-ID registration campaign. The program, spearheaded by the Ministry of Public Security’s Immigration Department, aims to provide foreign residents with Level-2 electronic identification accounts. This move aligns with the country’s broader digital transformation goals and its 2030 development vision. The campaign runs through August 19, offering a critical opportunity for eligible foreigners to access advanced digital services. n nThe Level-2 e-ID system is a significant step forward in Vietnam’s digital infrastructure. It allows users to authenticate information for banking, rental agreements, and public services. Foreigners can store residence cards and other official documents digitally via the VNeID mobile app, reducing reliance on physical paperwork. This initiative is part of the government’s plan to turn VNeID into a 'super app' by integrating more services, making it a one-stop solution for citizens and residents alike. n nEligibility for the Level-2 e-ID is restricted to foreign nationals holding valid permanent or temporary residence cards. Applicants must visit an Immigration Department office in person, where they will submit passports, complete registration forms, and provide biometric data, including facial images and fingerprints. This process ensures the security and accuracy of the digital identity system. Officials will cross-check the information against the national immigration database, with successful registrations confirmed via the VNeID app, phone, or email. n nThe registration process is designed to be efficient, with processing times depending on whether biometric data already exists in the database. For those with existing records, the turnaround is no more than three working days. New applicants may face a seven-day wait. Services are available Monday through Friday during standard working hours, excluding national holidays. The campaign’s timeline reflects the government’s commitment to ensuring a smooth rollout, with a recent trial processing 333 applications to identify and resolve potential issues. n nDeputy Director of the Immigration Department, Colonel Nguyen Ba Tuan, emphasized the importance of the initiative in enhancing service accessibility for foreign residents. He noted that the trial run’s success demonstrated the system’s readiness for full-scale implementation. The campaign’s focus on foreign nationals highlights Vietnam’s efforts to attract and retain international talent, particularly in sectors like technology, trade, and education. By simplifying administrative procedures, the government aims to improve the overall experience for expatriates and boost economic integration. n nThe VNeID app’s expansion into a super app is a key component of Vietnam’s digital strategy. By 2030, the government plans to integrate services such as healthcare, transportation, and tax filings into the platform. This approach mirrors global trends in digital governance, where single-platform solutions reduce bureaucratic hurdles. For foreign nationals, the Level-2 e-ID represents a gateway to these services, enabling them to navigate Vietnam’s administrative landscape more efficiently. n nApplications for the Level-2 e-ID can be submitted at specific offices, including the Immigration Management Office in Hanoi Police (44 Pham Ngoc Thach Street) and the Ho Chi Minh City Police office (196 Nguyen Thi Minh Khai Street). These locations are strategically chosen to accommodate high volumes of applicants. The government has also emphasized the importance of public awareness, with outreach efforts targeting foreign communities through embassies, universities, and business associations. n nThe benefits of the Level-2 e-ID extend beyond convenience. For instance, digital authentication can reduce fraud in financial transactions, while secure storage of documents minimizes the risk of loss or theft. Additionally, the system supports the government’s broader goal of reducing paper-based processes, which aligns with environmental sustainability initiatives. By promoting digital literacy among foreign residents, Vietnam aims to foster a tech-savvy population that can contribute to the country’s innovation economy. n nAs the campaign progresses, challenges may arise, such as ensuring accessibility for all eligible applicants. Language barriers, technical issues, and limited awareness could hinder participation. To address these, the Immigration Department has partnered with local organizations to provide multilingual support and conduct workshops. These efforts underscore the government’s commitment to inclusivity, ensuring that the digital ID system serves all segments of the population. n nThe success of the Level-2 e-ID initiative will depend on its adoption rate and user feedback. Early adopters will play a crucial role in identifying areas for improvement, such as streamlining the application process or expanding service integrations. The government has also hinted at future upgrades, including enhanced security features and partnerships with private sector entities to offer additional benefits. n nOverall, Vietnam’s e-ID registration campaign marks a pivotal moment in its digital transformation journey. By prioritizing foreign nationals, the government is not only modernizing its administrative systems but also positioning itself as a forward-thinking destination for international professionals. As the VNeID app evolves, it has the potential to become a model for other nations seeking to leverage technology for public service delivery. n nThe campaign’s impact will likely be felt across multiple sectors. For example, the real estate market could see increased transparency, as digital verification of identities simplifies rental and purchase agreements. Similarly, the financial sector may benefit from reduced fraud and faster transaction processing. These changes could attract more foreign investment, further boosting Vietnam’s economic growth. n nIn the long term, the Level-2 e-ID system could serve as a foundation for broader digital reforms. By creating a secure and reliable identity framework, Vietnam may pave the way for initiatives like blockchain-based record-keeping or AI-driven public services. These advancements would not only enhance efficiency but also reinforce the country’s reputation as a leader in digital innovation. n nAs the 50-day campaign approaches its conclusion, the focus will shift to evaluating its outcomes and planning for future phases. The government has already indicated its intention to expand the e-ID system to more residents, including those without permanent or temporary visas. This expansion could further democratize access to digital services, ensuring that even short-term visitors benefit from the system’s capabilities. n nIn summary, Vietnam’s e-ID registration drive for foreign nationals is a strategic move that aligns with its digital transformation goals. By offering a secure, user-friendly platform, the government is addressing the needs of both residents and the broader economy. The success of this initiative will depend on continuous improvements, stakeholder collaboration, and a focus on user experience. As the VNeID app evolves, it has the potential to become a cornerstone of Vietnam’s digital future. 

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQS): 

Q: Who is eligible for the Level-2 e-ID in Vietnam?

A: Foreign nationals holding valid permanent or temporary residence cards are eligible to apply for the Level-2 e-ID system.

Q: What are the key benefits of the Level-2 e-ID?

A: The Level-2 e-ID allows users to authenticate information for banking, rental agreements, and public services. It also enables digital storage of residence cards and official documents via the VNeID app.

Q: How long does the e-ID registration process take?

A: Processing times vary: three working days for applicants with existing biometric data and up to seven days for those submitting new information.

Q: Where can foreign nationals apply for the Level-2 e-ID?

A: Applications can be submitted at the Immigration Management Office in Hanoi (44 Pham Ngoc Thach Street) or Ho Chi Minh City (196 Nguyen Thi Minh Khai Street).

Q: What is the government’s vision for the VNeID app?

A: The VNeID app is planned to become a 'super app' by integrating more services, such as healthcare, transportation, and tax filings, by 2030. 

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