What can foreigners use VNeID for in Vietnam?

Among the 66 types of documents, some commonly used by foreigners in Vietnam and eligible for integration into VNeID include ordinary passports, visas, visa exemption documents, permanent and temporary residence cards, residence information confirmations, vehicle registration certificates, driver’s licenses and investment licenses or certificates.

The list also covers other documents that a foreigner may hold in Vietnam, such as tax registration certificates, social insurance books and health insurance cards.

Not all documents appear automatically. If the issuing authority has a database connected to the electronic identification system, information and documents can be automatically synchronized and updated.

If the issuing authority does not have a connected database, the electronic identity holder can request integration through VNeID, after which the authority that issued the document reviews and approves the request.

For a foreigner, this means VNeID can bring eligible information from different documents into one electronic identification system, making it easier to access and use that information.

Administrative, financial, everyday services

VNeID connects electronic identities and integrated documents with a range of administrative procedures and public services.

In addition to administrative procedures such as temporary and permanent residence registration, paying traffic violation fines, and managing driver records, foreigners can use VNeID for certain financial services, such as opening a bank account.

As of the end of last year, 28 banks and bank branches as well as four payment intermediary organizations — VNPT Money, MobiFone Money, Viettel Money and MoMo — were connected to VNeID.

Driver’s licenses and vehicle registration certificates are among the documents that can be integrated or updated in VNeID.

However, having a driver’s license integrated into VNeID does not by itself give a foreigner permission to drive in Vietnam. Foreign drivers must still hold a valid license recognized for use in Vietnam and comply with traffic rules.

VNeID also provides access to tax services and digital public services in major cities such as Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City.

VNeID can also support various aspects of everyday life. These include buying prescription medicines online, including through FPT Long Chau pharmacies; storing and using health insurance information and electronic health records; and booking flights and checking in online with airlines such as Vietjet and Vietnam Airlines.

The app can also support payments for household utility bills, including electricity and water.

Avoiding repeated paperwork

One of the most practical changes is that local agencies must not require individuals or organizations to submit or present the original or a copy of documents that have already been integrated into VNeID.

This does not mean foreigners can leave all their physical documents at home in every situation. The rule applies to documents and information that have actually been integrated into the system.

VNeID should not be viewed as a universal replacement for a foreigner’s passport, visa, residence documents or other physical paperwork.

E-ID accounts make it easier for foreigners to complete administrative procedures online, reducing the time and paperwork involved while helping verify their identities and protect their legitimate rights while they are living and working in Vietnam, according to the Ministry of Public Security.