Things You Need to Know About the Vietnamese Passport

The Vietnamese passport is an essential document for Vietnamese citizens when traveling, working, or studying abroad. Here are the key details you need to know about it.

1. Types of Vietnamese Passports

Currently, Vietnam issues three main types of passports:

🔹 Ordinary Passport (P – Popular Passport):

• Issued to Vietnamese citizens aged 14 and above.
• Valid for 10 years (for individuals aged 14 and older) and 5 years (for children under 14).
• Used for tourism, business trips, study, or immigration purposes.

🔹 Official Passport (C – Công vụ Passport):

• Issued to government officials traveling abroad on official duty.
• Maximum validity of 5 years.

🔹 Diplomatic Passport (D – Diplomatic Passport):

• Issued to diplomats and government representatives on international missions.
• Maximum validity of 5 years.

Additionally, there is a Seafarer’s Passport issued to Vietnamese citizens working on international ships.

2. E-Passport vs. Regular Passport

Since July 1, 2022, Vietnam has started issuing electronic chip passports for citizens.

✔️ E-Passport: Embedded with an electronic chip storing personal information, offering enhanced security and smoother entry in certain countries.
✔️ Regular Passport: Functions the same as an e-passport but does not have the added security benefits or entry privileges in some regions.

Both passport types have the same validity and legal status.

3. Benefits of Holding a Vietnamese Passport

✅ Visa-free entry to multiple countries: Vietnamese citizens can enter over 50 countries without a visa or obtain an e-visa/on-arrival visa, including Thailand, Indonesia, Singapore, Malaysia, the Philippines, and South Korea (for certain provinces).
✅ Easily renewable or replaceable: Vietnamese passports can be renewed or replaced at the Immigration Department or Vietnamese embassies/consulates abroad.
✅ Can serve as an identification document domestically: The passport can be used in place of a national ID card for certain official procedures.

4. Where to Apply for a Vietnamese Passport?

📌 Within Vietnam:

• The Immigration Department – Ministry of Public Security
• Immigration offices of provincial or municipal police departments

📌 Abroad:

• Vietnamese embassies or consulates in foreign countries

5. Important Notes When Using a Vietnamese Passport

🔸 Check the passport’s validity: Many countries require that your passport be valid for at least six months from the date of entry.
🔸 Handle it with care: A damaged or lost passport may cause travel difficulties.
🔸 Check visa requirements before departure: Apply for a visa in advance if necessary.
🔸 Do not let others use your passport: Unauthorized use may result in legal consequences.

6. Can You Apply for a Passport Online?

Yes! Vietnamese citizens can now submit passport applications online via the Public Service Portal of the Ministry of Public Security, then visit the immigration office for fingerprinting and passport collection.

📍 Online passport application website: https://dichvucong.bocongan.gov.vn

Summary

The Vietnamese passport is a crucial document for international travel. Always check its validity before a trip and follow the relevant regulations to avoid complications. If you need more information on visas, passports, or immigration services, contact the appropriate authorities for assistance! 🚀