Electronic Identification for Foreigners Without Temporary Residence Cards in Vietnam

From July 1, 2024, Decree No. 69/2024/NĐ-CP officially came into effect, marking an important step in the digitalization of population management in Vietnam – including requirements for electronic identification of foreigners.

However, a mandatory condition for electronic identification procedures is that foreigners must possess a valid Temporary Residence Card or Permanent Residence Card in Vietnam. This requirement has unintentionally created certain obstacles for individuals from some countries, who—due to political or administrative reasons—are only granted long-term visas without being eligible for temporary/permanent residence cards, even though they are legally residing and working in Vietnam.

This situation has caused difficulties for some businesses, particularly those whose sole legal representative is a foreigner holding only a long-term visa. Without personal electronic identification, such representatives are unable to complete electronic identification for their companies, which is a compulsory requirement for many digital transactions and administrative procedures.

To resolve this issue, immigration authorities in certain localities are considering issuing Temporary Residence Cards to foreigners holding valid long-term visas in order to support electronic identification. Eligible foreigners must meet the following conditions:

• Hold a valid long-term visa in Vietnam (minimum 1 year);

• Possess a valid passport in accordance with Vietnamese law;

• Use a SIM card registered under their own name in Vietnam.

It should be noted that the Temporary Residence Card issued under this mechanism is solely for the purpose of personal identification, and its validity will not exceed the duration of the long-term visa already granted. This Temporary Residence Card must be used together with the visa when conducting personal identification or immigration procedures.

Currently, the issuance of such Temporary Residence Cards for electronic identification is being considered on a case-by-case basis, and implementation may differ between localities. According to the latest update from ALTAS, the Immigration Departments in Ho Chi Minh City and Hanoi may soon apply this procedure.

We will continue to closely monitor developments and promptly inform our clients of any changes related to electronic identification registration.

ALTAS is currently offering a special support program with fast, dedicated services and attractive incentives. If you need assistance, please contact us for timely and effective support.