New Government Requirement for Foreigners to Obtain a VNeID
Effective July 1, 2025, the Vietnamese government launched VNeID registration for all foreigners holding Temporary Residence Cards (TRCs) or Permanent Residence Cards.
Overview:
- VNeID assigns a unique ID number to each foreigner and will soon be mandatory for various administrative processes: tax, banking, household registration, corporate procedures, and more.
- The VNeID data is stored in the VNeID mobile app, which centralizes personal data and other info. This program was implemented nationwide for Vietnamese citizens several years ago.
- Registration Launch Period for Current or New TRC holders: July 1 – August 19, 2025. After this period, all new TRC holders will be required to register in the VNeID program shortly after receiving their TRC.
Who Must Register:
- All foreigners and their dependents who hold a valid TRC (regardless of expiry date) or Permanent Residence Card.
- Note: Foreigners who are legal representatives of a company should prioritize registration due to its relevance for corporate activities (Business VNeID).
How to Apply
- In-person registration is required at the Immigration Department in the city where the foreigner’s TRC was issued.
*Note: Vietnam recently reorganized its provinces from 63 to 34—double-check your jurisdiction/city. - Estimated time for application process at the Immigration office: 30 minutes to 2 hours (depending on queue). If very busy, it may require a return trip.
- No pre-appointment system available at this time – arrive early, get your queue number and bring a fluent Vietnamese speaker to help navigate the various steps.
Key Documents / Info Required for Applicant
- Passport
- TRC/Permanent Residence Card
- A local, personal Vietnamese mobile number
- Registered in the applicant’s name and linked to their foreign passport
- Must be active and on the applicant’s mobile phone in order to recieve OTP message. The officer will check.
- Company registered/provided numbers/SIMs or unregistered numbers will not be accepted.
What Happens During the Application Process at the Immigration Department?
- Fingerprints and a photo will be taken
- Forms will be completed and signed
- Local phone number registration will be checked/verified
After Registration
- Download the VNeID app (Android or iOS). This app has Vietnamese and English language. Be sure to download the official government app. The app name is VNeID and the app logo is displayed at the end of this post.
- The user will receive an activation code via SMS sent to your personal phone number within 3–7 days
- Enter the code in the app to activate the account (note, all personal data will be stored in the app, so keep your phone secure).
Important Notes and Considerations:
- LTV (Long-Term Visa) holders are not eligible to apply as of this writing. The government is expected to expand the program to them, but there is no official timeline.
- Exact usage scenarios for VNeID are still developing but it is critical to register to avoid any issues. Authorities describe it as a future “super app” integrating/necessary for:
- Non-cash payments, E-wallets, Household registration, Social services, Tax requirements, various corporate processes, utility bills, stock transactions, etc.
- It is unclear currently what the de-registration process is for a foreign individual’s VNeID once they depart from Vietnam permanently. We expect the government will announce this process after the launch period has ended.
- Check with your immigration provider before applying:
- In order to confirm the correct Immigration Department office based on your TRC
- For any updates or changes during this launch period. The above requirements and processes are subject to change without notice.
Resident Vietnam offers full assistance for VNeID registration including:
- Document preparation
- In-person accompaniment to Immigration Department office
- Language support and process guidance
- Assistance with VNeID app set up.
Contact Resident Vietnam for more Details!
Official VNeID App
