VNeID Level 2 Registration for Foreigners in Vietnam – Full Guide

Nhung Kieu16/09/2025

As a licensed real estate professional with over a decade of experience serving the international community in Vietnam, I have witnessed firsthand the challenges foreigners face when navigating administrative procedures. The introduction of Vietnam’s Level 2 Electronic Identification (VNeID) system represents a significant advancement in digital transformation, streamlining various administrative processes for foreign residents.

Foreigners legally authorized in Vietnam can register for a level 2 VNeID electronic identification account from July 1, 2025. This comprehensive guide will walk you through every step of the registration process, ensuring you complete it efficiently and correctly.

I. What is VNeID Level 2?

VNeID Level 2 is Vietnam’s advanced electronic identification system designed for foreign residents. For foreigners residing in Vietnam, Level 2 eID accounts are legally equivalent to passports for transactions requiring passport presentation, and help provide information from personal documents synchronized in eID accounts for verification by competent authorities.

This digital identification system offers numerous benefits:

  • Legal Equivalence: Functions as a digital passport for official transactions
  • Streamlined Processes: Reduces paperwork and processing time for administrative procedures
  • Enhanced Security: Provides secure digital authentication for various services
  • Convenience: Eliminates the need to carry physical documents for many transactions

II. Eligibility Requirements

Before beginning the registration process, ensure you meet the following criteria:

1. Primary Eligibility

Foreigners holding valid temporary or permanent residence permits in Vietnam are eligible to obtain the digital ID, making it easier for them to complete online administrative procedures while reducing processing time, paperwork and direct contact requirements.

2. Specific Requirements

The subjects performing this administrative procedure are foreigners who have been granted permanent residence or temporary residence status in Vietnam.

3. Age Considerations

Foreign nationals under the age of 14 must be accompanied by a guardian or legal representative when presenting for Level 2 e-ID registration. For children aged 6 to under 14, the guardian must use their own verified mobile number to complete the application on the child’s behalf.

III. Required Documents

Proper documentation is critical for successful registration. All applicants must present original documents with current validity status—photocopies are not accepted for initial verification, and missing any mandatory document will result in application rejection requiring a return visit to the immigration office.

1. Essential Documents

Applicants must bring a valid passport, a valid temporary or permanent residence card, and an active Vietnamese mobile phone

2. Document Checklist:

  1. Valid Passport – Original document with current validity
  2. Residence Permit – Valid temporary or permanent residence card
  3. Vietnamese Mobile Phone – Active phone number registered in Vietnam
  4. Additional Documentation – Any supporting identification documents

3. Document Verification Process

All documents must be:

  • Original copies (no photocopies accepted)
  • Currently valid (not expired)
  • Clearly legible and undamaged
  • Consistent with information provided in application forms

IV. Registration Locations

Where to Apply

Foreigners will have to go to the local immigration department or provincial-level police immigration office to register for their accounts.

Authorized Registration Centers:

  • Immigration Management Offices under Ministry of Public Security
  • Provincial-level Police Immigration Offices
  • Ho Chi Minh City Police Immigration Department
  • Local Immigration Management Agencies
  • Immigration Management Division – Hanoi City Police Department (No. 44 Pham Ngoc Thach, Kim Lien Ward, Hanoi)

Selecting Your Registration Location

Choose the most convenient location based on:

  • Your current residence address
  • Office hours and availability
  • Language support services
  • Processing capacity and wait times

V. Step-by-Step Registration Process

The registration process follows a structured approach to ensure accurate data collection and account creation.

Step 1: Preparation and Queue Management

Step 1: Obtain a queue number for photo capture

Pre-Registration Preparation:

  • Arrive early during business hours to minimize waiting time
  • Bring all required original documents
  • Ensure your Vietnamese mobile phone is charged and functional
  • Dress appropriately for official photography

Queue Management:

  • Take a queue number upon arrival
  • Wait for your number to be called
  • Be prepared for potential language barriers

Step 2: Portrait Photography

Step 2: Have your portrait photo taken at the registration office.

Photography Requirements:

  • Professional portrait photo taken on-site
  • Follow specific guidelines provided by staff
  • Ensure proper lighting and positioning
  • Remove hats, sunglasses, or obstructive accessories

Technical Standards: The photo must meet biometric standards for digital identification purposes.

Step 3: Document Submission and Form Completion

Step 3: Present your valid personal documents and fill out the “Information Provision Form”

Document Presentation:

  • Present original passport and residence card
  • Allow staff to verify document authenticity
  • Provide Vietnamese mobile phone number
  • Answer any verification questions

Form Completion: Present all personal documents and complete the “Information Provision Form” along with the “Application Form” (Form TK01) provided by the Immigration Department.

Required Forms:

  • Information Provision Form
  • Application Form TK01
  • Additional forms as required by processing office

Step 4: Biometric Data Collection

Provide biometric fingerprint data and submit biometric data, including facial images and fingerprints.

Biometric Requirements:

  • Digital fingerprint scanning
  • Facial recognition data capture
  • Additional biometric measurements as required
  • Multiple scans may be necessary for accuracy

Data Processing: Data for account issuance includes personal information, passport number or international travel document, permanent or temporary residence card, portrait photo, and biometric information.

Step 5: System Processing and Verification

The system will process the data and send a verification request to the National Population database for final verification.

Processing Components:

  • Data validation and cross-referencing
  • Background verification checks
  • System integration testing
  • Account generation preparation

VI. Processing Timeline and Costs

Processing Duration

Processing timelines range from immediate processing to several business days, depending on system capacity and verification requirements.

Expected Timeframes:

  • Initial application review: Same day
  • Biometric verification: 1-2 business days
  • Account activation: 3-5 business days
  • Total processing time: Up to 7 business days

Associated Costs

This procedure is free of charge.

The VNeID Level 2 registration process does not require any government fees. However, you should budget for:

  • Transportation to registration centers
  • Potential document translation services
  • Mobile phone credit for verification SMS

Post-Registration Process

Account Activation

After successful registration, you will receive:

  • SMS notification to your Vietnamese mobile phone
  • Account activation instructions
  • Login credentials for VNeID system
  • QR code for mobile app access

Mobile Application Setup

Download the official VNeID mobile application and:

  • Install the app on your smartphone
  • Complete initial setup using provided credentials
  • Verify your identity through biometric authentication
  • Enable security features and notifications

Testing Your Account

Verify your account functionality by:

  • Logging into the VNeID portal
  • Testing biometric authentication
  • Reviewing your digital profile information
  • Confirming document synchronization

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Application Rejection Scenarios

Common reasons for application rejection include:

  • Expired or invalid documents
  • Incomplete form submissions
  • Poor quality biometric data
  • System technical errors

Resolution Strategies

If your application is rejected:

  • Review rejection notification carefully
  • Gather any missing documentation
  • Schedule a new appointment
  • Consider seeking professional assistance

Technical Support

For system-related issues:

  • Contact official VNeID support channels
  • Visit registration centers for technical assistance
  • Consult with experienced professionals
  • Join expatriate community forums for peer support

VII. Professional Recommendations

Best Practices for Success

Based on my experience assisting numerous foreign clients:

  1. Thorough Preparation: Ensure all documents are current and properly organized
  2. Professional Assistance: Consider hiring a local consultant familiar with the process
  3. Language Support: Bring a Vietnamese-speaking companion if language barriers exist
  4. Patience and Persistence: Government procedures require time and patience
  5. Follow-up: Monitor your application status regularly

Integration with Real Estate Transactions

VNeID Level 2 significantly streamlines property-related procedures:

  • Digital document verification for property purchases
  • Simplified tax filing and payment processes
  • Enhanced security for property ownership verification
  • Reduced paperwork for rental agreements

VIII. Conclusion

The VNeID Level 2 registration process represents a significant step forward in Vietnam’s digital transformation initiative. While the process requires careful attention to detail and proper documentation, the long-term benefits far outweigh the initial investment of time and effort.

Electronic identification for foreigners is an important step in administrative procedure reform and digital transformation, contributing to more efficient government services and improved experiences for foreign residents.

As a real estate professional committed to serving the international community, I encourage all eligible foreigners to complete their VNeID Level 2 registration as soon as possible. This digital identification system will become increasingly important for various administrative and commercial transactions in Vietnam.

Remember that regulations and procedures may evolve, so always verify current requirements with official sources before beginning your registration process. Success in navigating Vietnam’s administrative systems requires patience, preparation, and professional guidance when needed.