Vietnam Passport

Vietnam Passport: Complete Guide (2025)

The Vietnam passport is the official international travel document issued to Vietnamese citizens by the Immigration Department under the Ministry of Public Security. It is essential for international travel, proving identity abroad, and accessing consular support when overseas.

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Types of Vietnamese Passports

Vietnam issues several types of passports, depending on the purpose and status of the holder:

1. Ordinary Passport (Green Cover)
   • For all Vietnamese citizens traveling abroad for personal, business, or educational reasons.
   • Biometric version available since 2022.
2. Official Passport (Blue Cover)
   • Issued to government employees on official duty abroad.
3. Diplomatic Passport (Red Cover)
   • Reserved for diplomats and senior officials.

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Who Can Apply for a Vietnam Passport?

• Vietnamese citizens residing in Vietnam or abroad
• Children under 14 with parental or guardian assistance
• Citizens with full legal capacity and no travel bans or legal restrictions

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Required Documents for a New Passport

For applicants in Vietnam:

• Completed passport application form (Form X01)
• Valid Vietnamese ID card or citizen ID
• Household registration book or proof of permanent residence
• Biometric photo (taken at the passport office)
• For minors: Birth certificate and parent/guardian’s ID
• Passport fee payment receipt

For overseas applicants:

• Vietnamese nationality proof (old passport, birth certificate, or naturalization documents)
• Valid residence permit or visa in the current country
• Consular registration (if applicable)

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How to Apply

1. Apply at the Immigration Office
   • Submit documents at a provincial Immigration Department or public administration center.
   • Biometric data (photo, fingerprints) are collected.
2. Apply Online (E-passport)
   • Available in select cities like Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City.
   • Requires digital ID and digital signature for authentication.
3. Apply at Vietnamese Embassies/Consulates Abroad
   • Submit documents and biometric data in person.
   • Processing times may vary based on local consular services.

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Passport Validity and Fees

• Adults: Valid for 10 years
• Children under 14: Valid for 5 years
• Passports cannot be renewed; a new application must be made upon expiration or major personal information changes.

Fees (approximate):

• New biometric passport: 200,000 – 250,000 VND
• Lost/damaged passport replacement: Higher fees apply

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Visa-Free Countries for Vietnam Passport Holders

As of 2025, Vietnamese citizens enjoy visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to around 55 countries and territories, including:

• Southeast Asia: Thailand, Singapore, Indonesia, Malaysia, Philippines, Laos, Cambodia
• Asia-Pacific: South Korea (with e-visa), Japan (with conditions), Fiji
• Americas: Chile, Panama, Ecuador
• Africa & Middle East: Some countries with visa-on-arrival or e-visa options

Entry rules are subject to change, so always confirm with the embassy or consulate of the destination country before travel.

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Lost or Damaged Passport

To replace a lost or stolen passport:

1. Report the loss to local police
2. Obtain a confirmation report
3. Submit a replacement application at the Immigration Department or Vietnamese embassy abroad
4. Provide identity proof and pay the replacement fee

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Dual Citizenship and Passport Eligibility

Vietnam officially recognizes limited dual citizenship under specific conditions. Dual nationals may hold both Vietnamese and foreign passports but must use their Vietnamese passport when entering or leaving Vietnam.

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