Vietnam police check: How to get a criminal record certificate
A Vietnam police check or criminal record certificate is a vital document for various legal and immigration procedures, including visa applications and work permits. This guide will provide you with a clear, step-by-step process on how to obtain a police certificate in Vietnam, whether you are residing in the country or applying from abroad.
If you’re planning to launch a business, check the full guide to setting up a company in Vietnam for legal steps and document requirements.
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Table of Contents
What is a Police Certificate in Vietnam?
A police certificate in Vietnam, also known as a criminal record certificate or judicial record certificate, is an official document issued by the Vietnamese authorities that confirms an individual’s criminal history, if any. This certificate is essential for various legal processes such as immigration, visa applications, employment verification, and even marriage registrations.
What it is?
The police certificate serves as verification of an individual’s criminal background within Vietnam. It confirms whether the individual has a criminal record or if their record has been expunged. This document is crucial for proving the person’s good standing or clear background for immigration, business, or legal purposes.
When it’s required
A police certificate from Vietnam is often required in the following situations:
- Visa and immigration applications: Many countries require foreign nationals to submit a police certificate to apply for long-term visas, work permits, or residency.
- Work permits: For foreigners seeking employment in Vietnam, especially in regulated professions, a police certificate may be needed to confirm their criminal background.
- Marriage and family visas: Individuals planning to marry in Vietnam or bring their families to Vietnam may need to provide proof of a clean criminal record.
- Legal and official transactions: It’s also required when foreign nationals need to demonstrate their legal standing for various administrative purposes.
Types of police certificates
In Vietnam, there are two types of police certificates issued based on the applicant’s criminal history.
| Criteria | Form No. 1 (Criminal Record Certificate) | Form No. 2 (Full Criminal Record Certificate) |
| Contents | Lists only unexpunged criminal records | Includes all criminal records, even those expunged |
| Usage | Used for immigration, visa applications, work permits | Required in specific legal procedures or full disclosure |
| Who requests it | Most commonly requested by foreign governments for visa or immigration purposes | Used in situations where complete criminal history is necessary, including erased records |
| Type of information | Criminal convictions that are still valid under the law | All criminal history, including erased or cleared records |
| Legal application | For cases where only current legal standing is needed | For thorough disclosure, such as in legal or judicial processes |
| Example use case | Foreign immigration or work permit applications | Complete criminal history required for certain legal or official purposes |
Legal terminology
The official term used for the police certificate in Vietnam is the Judicial Record Certificate. This document is regulated under Vietnam’s Criminal Law and is a primary source for legal authorities to assess a person’s legal history. It is often used to ensure that foreign nationals are law-abiding citizens before they can proceed with official or legal transactions, whether in Vietnam or in other countries.
- International standards: The Judicial Record Certificate complies with international standards for criminal background checks, which are vital in global migration processes.
- Verified by Vietnamese Authorities: This certificate is issued and verified by Vietnam’s Ministry of Justice, adding authority and legal standing to the document.
In Vietnam, the police certificate (or Judicial Record Certificate) is a critical document used in various legal, immigration, and employment processes. Understanding the difference between Form No. 1 and Form No. 2 is important for knowing when each type of certificate is required. By confirming whether an individual has a criminal history or not, this certificate helps ensure transparency in legal transactions, protecting both the individual and the institutions they engage with.
Who needs a Vietnamese police check?
A Vietnamese police certificate, also known as a criminal record certificate or judicial record certificate, is required for various individuals who either currently reside in Vietnam or have previously lived in the country. This certificate is an essential document for legal and administrative purposes, primarily to confirm an individual’s criminal background. It is commonly requested for immigration, visa, work permits, marriage, and adoption.
The following table compares the key features and use cases of the police certificate for foreigners currently residing in Vietnam and foreigners who used to reside in Vietnam, highlighting the differences in application, usage, and submission requirements.
| Feature | Foreigners currently residing in Vietnam | Foreigners who used to reside in Vietnam |
| Purpose of Police Certificate | Required for visa extensions, work permits, and legal compliance | Required for immigration, employment, or background checks abroad |
| Application requirement | Necessary for residence-related processes (work permits, visas) | Needed for immigration, visa, or employment applications abroad |
| Common use cases | Work permit, permanent residency, visa extension | Immigration, employment, visa applications in other countries |
| Timeframe | Must be obtained while living in Vietnam | Required for people who lived in Vietnam in the past but now reside abroad |
| Submission location | Apply through Vietnamese authorities, either online or in person | Can be applied for through the Vietnamese embassy or consulate |
| Frequency of need | Ongoing, as part of immigration or legal processes in Vietnam | Typically a one-time requirement for past residents when applying abroad |
A police certificate from Vietnam is essential for both foreigners currently residing in the country and those who have previously lived there. It plays a key role in immigration, visa applications, work permits, marriage, and adoption processes. Whether you are applying for a visa, starting a job abroad, or getting married in Vietnam, a police certificate ensures that you are compliant with the legal and regulatory requirements.
For a full overview of Vietnam Work Visa procedures, including permit and TRC requirements.
Required documents for a Police Certificate in Vietnam
Obtaining a police certificate (also referred to as a criminal record certificate or judicial record certificate) in Vietnam requires specific documentation depending on whether the applicant is currently residing in the country or living in an area outside of Vietnam.
For applicants currently in Vietnam
Below is a detailed breakdown of the documents required for both foreigners residing in Vietnam and foreigners who used to reside in Vietnam.
List of documents
| Document | Details |
| Passport (Original and copy) | The passport details page, including any visa stamps and immigration records |
| Temporary residence card (if applicable) | For foreigners who have temporary residency status in Vietnam |
| Proof of residence | A confirmation from local authorities commonly the “Registration Book” |
| Completed application form | Form No. 03/2013/TT-LLTP, which can be downloaded from the Ministry of Justice website or obtained at the local authorities |
| Additional documents (if applicable) | Documents such as work permits, student visas, or contracts that specify the purpose of the police certificate |
Where to obtain residence confirmation
The residence confirmation is a crucial document for verifying your stay in Vietnam. You can obtain this from the following places:
- Local police station: Visit the local police station in the area where you are living. They will issue a residence confirmation based on your current address. This document proves that you are living at your registered address, which is required for the police certificate application.
- Commune or ward office: In some cases, you may also obtain the confirmation from the commune or ward office if the local police station refers you to them.
- Foreign Affairs Office (if applicable): For certain regions or specific cases (such as expatriates), you may also be able to obtain confirmation through the Foreign Affairs Office in your area. This might apply in more formal employment situations, especially if you are employed by an international organization.
Sample templates (if available)
While specific templates may vary slightly based on locality, the Residence Confirmation Template typically includes the following information:
- Full name of the applicant
- Date of birth
- Address in Vietnam
- Dates of temporary residence (from and to)
- Signature and seal of the issuing authority
You can request the template from the local police or commune office, or download it if it is available online from official government portals.
For applicants outside Vietnam
For foreign nationals who have previously resided in Vietnam but are now living abroad, the process of obtaining a police certificate involves additional steps, including power of attorney requirements, legalization, and translation rules. Below is a guide for applicants applying from outside Vietnam.
Power of attorney requirements
If you are applying for a police certificate from outside Vietnam and are unable to visit the country in person, you may need to authorize a representative in Vietnam to handle the application on your behalf.
| Power of attorney requirements | Details |
| Notarization | The power of attorney must be notarized by a certified authority (e.g., notary public) in your current country of residence |
| Authorization for local representative | The power of attorney should specifically authorize a trusted person in Vietnam (often a lawyer or agent) to apply for the police certificate on your behalf |
| Additional documents | Along with the power of attorney, you may need to submit a copy of your passport and other personal identification documents |
Legalization & translation rules
Since you are applying for a Vietnamese police certificate from outside Vietnam, you must ensure that all documents, including the power of attorney, passport copies, and other personal documents, are properly legalized and translated.
| Legalization & translation rules | Details |
| Legalization of documents | Documents such as the power of attorney and identification papers must be legalized (authenticated) by the Vietnamese embassy or consulate in your home country |
| Translation to Vietnamese | All foreign-language documents (e.g., passport, power of attorney, etc.) must be translated into Vietnamese. The translation should be done by a certified translator and may need to be notarized to be legally accepted |
| Verification of translations | Ensure that both the translated documents and the original documents are submitted to the Vietnamese embassy or consulate for verification |
Mail-in application guidance
When applying for a police certificate from abroad, the process is typically done through mail-in applications or through the Vietnamese embassy or consulate in your country.
Here’s how to proceed:
- Submit application to the Embassy: If applying from abroad, send your application and required documents to the Vietnamese embassy or consulate in your home country. This office will process your application and forward it to the Ministry of Justice in Vietnam.
- Ensure that all documents, including the notarized power of attorney, translations, copies of identification, and the completed application form (Form No. 03/2013/TT-LLTP), are included in your application package.
- Mailing instructions: Carefully follow the embassy or consulate’s mailing instructions, which may include providing a self-addressed envelope for return. Some embassies may also allow online submissions, so check with your local office.
- Processing time: The processing time may vary depending on the embassy or consulate, but it generally takes 7–15 working days for the application to be processed and for the police certificate to be sent back.
The process of obtaining a police certificate in Vietnam involves clear documentation depending on the applicant’s current status. It is essential to prepare the right documents to avoid delays and ensure a smooth application process. Whether you are living in Vietnam or outside of Vietnam, understanding the specific requirements will help facilitate your application for this important legal document.
Where to apply for a Police Certificate in Vietnam
The application process for a police certificate in Vietnam can be done either in person or online, depending on the applicant’s location and preference. Below is a detailed guide on where to apply for a police certificate in Vietnam, including the relevant authorities and procedures for both foreign nationals currently residing in Vietnam and those living abroad.
In-person application
Foreigners currently residing in Vietnam can apply for a police certificate by visiting the local authorities or the Ministry of Justice. The following locations are where you can submit your application in person:
| Location | Details |
| Provincial department of Justice | You can apply at the Provincial Department of Justice in the area where you reside. These departments are present in each province and city across Vietnam (e.g., Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City) |
| National center for Criminal Records | For national-level processing, you can apply at the National center for Criminal Records located in Hanoi. This is especially useful for applicants who need to confirm their criminal record nationwide |
| Local police station | In some cases, the local police station or commune office in your area of residence may accept the application or guide you on the next steps. You will need to provide proof of your residency (e.g., Registration Book, Temporary Residence Card) |
Online application via National Public Service Portal
The National Public Service Portal (https://dichvucong.gov.vn) allows both residents and foreign nationals in Vietnam to apply for a police certificate conveniently online. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to apply online and what to expect after submitting your application.
The online application process is as follows:
| Step | Action | Details |
| 1 | Visit the National Public Service Portal | Go to https://dichvucong.gov.vn |
| 2 | Create an account (if you don’t have one) | Click on “Register Account” to create an account by entering your name, email, phone number, and password |
| 3 | Log in to your account | After creating an account, log in using the username and password you set up |
| 4 | Navigate to Police Certificate application | On the homepage, locate the section for “Judicial Record” and select “Apply for Police Certificate” |
| 5 | Fill in the application form | Complete the form with personal details such as full name, date of birth, nationality, passport details, and other ID information |
| 6 | Upload required documents | Upload clear scanned copies of:
|
| 7 | Submit the application | After filling out the form and uploading documents, review everything and click “Submit Application” to finalize the submission |
| 8 | Payment of fees | Pay the application fee through the available online payment methods (bank transfer, card payment, or e-wallet) |
Once you have successfully submitted your application online, the following steps will take place:
- Confirmation of application: After submitting your application and paying the fees, you will receive a confirmation receipt with an application number. This number will be used to track the status of your police certificate application. Make sure to keep this receipt safe for future reference.
- Processing by authorities: Vietnamese authorities will begin processing your application. This includes verifying the information you provided and checking your criminal record (if applicable). The processing time typically ranges from 7-15 working days, although this can vary depending on the application volume and the area where you applied.
- Notification of completion: Once the processing is complete, you will receive a notification through the portal or via email. This will inform you that your police certificate is ready.
- Certificate collection or delivery: After receiving the notification, you can choose to either collect your police certificate in person at the National Center for Criminal Records or Provincial Department of Justice, or you can opt for it to be mailed to the address you provided in your application. If you are picking up the certificate in person, remember to bring your ID and the confirmation receipt.
- Final verification: Once you receive the certificate, it’s important to verify the details for accuracy. If there are any discrepancies or issues, contact the authorities immediately to resolve them.
Applying for a police certificate online through the National Public Service Portal is a straightforward and convenient method for both residents and foreign nationals in Vietnam. By following the step-by-step process outlined above, you can easily submit your application and track the status of your certificate. Once processed, you will either collect your certificate in person or have it delivered to your address, depending on your chosen method.
If you are unable to apply for the police certificate in person, either due to living abroad or other reasons, you can apply through an authorized service or a proxy. This option allows you to delegate the application process to someone else on your behalf.
The process of applying through a proxy or authorized service is legally permitted in Vietnam, but there are specific guidelines to ensure that the application is handled correctly:
- Authorized person or proxy: You may designate an individual, such as a lawyer, notary, or an authorized representative, to submit the application on your behalf. The proxy must have written authorization, typically in the form of a power of attorney that is notarized.
- Power of attorney: The individual applying on your behalf must have a valid power of attorney document that clearly states their authorization to submit your police certificate application. This document must be notarized, and in some cases, it may need to be legalized by the Vietnamese embassy or consulate if you are applying from abroad.
- Identification: The proxy must provide identification, typically a valid ID or passport, along with your power of attorney document when submitting the application.
- Application submission: The proxy can submit the application in person at the relevant Provincial Department of Justice, National Center for Criminal Records, or through the National Public Service Portal if available.
When using a proxy or authorized service, ensure that all forms are filled out correctly and that the power of attorney is properly executed to avoid delays or complications in the application process.
For foreign nationals applying from abroad, using an embassy or third-party service is a common method of applying for a police certificate. Here’s how these options work:
| Service option | Details | Requirements | Process |
| Embassy services | Many Vietnamese embassies and consulates offer assistance with police certificate applications | – Passport copy
– Notarized power of attorney (if applying via proxy) – Proof of previous residence in Vietnam – Any other required documents |
– Submit your application to the embassy
– The embassy will forward it to the relevant Vietnamese authorities for processing – Wait for notification of certificate completion |
| Third-party service providers | Authorized service providers can help with the entire process, from application to document submission | – Passport copy
– Notarized power of attorney – Proof of residence in Vietnam – Additional documents requested by the service provider |
– Choose a reliable third-party service
– Submit required documents to them – They will handle application submission and tracking on your behalf |
When choosing a third-party service, ensure that they are reliable and authorized to handle such applications. Research and check reviews to ensure that they are legitimate and trustworthy.
Processing time and fees
Obtaining a police certificate in Vietnam involves a set processing time and fee structure, depending on the method of application and the number of copies required. Below is a breakdown of the standard processing time, fees for the certificate, and the fast-track availability for those who need the document urgently.
The standard processing time for a police certificate in Vietnam typically ranges from 7 to 15 working days. The exact duration may vary depending on:
- The location where the application is submitted (e.g., provincial vs. national level)
- The volume of applications being processed at the time
- Whether the application is complete and no additional documentation is required
Applicants are encouraged to apply well in advance to avoid any delays, especially if the certificate is required for visa applications, immigration, or other legal matters.
The cost of obtaining a police certificate in Vietnam depends on the number of copies you request. Below is the typical fee structure:
| Type of copy | Fee (VND) | Details |
| First copy | 200,000 VND | This is the standard fee for the initial police certificate |
| Additional copies | 5,000 VND per copy | Each extra copy requested costs an additional 5,000 VND |
| Payment methods | Online, bank transfer, or cash | Payment can typically be made via the National Public Service Portal or in person at the relevant authorities |
Fees are subject to change, so it is always advisable to check the current fee schedule on the official portal or with local authorities.
For applicants who need the police certificate urgently, Vietnam offers a fast-track service that expedites the processing time. This service is particularly useful for cases where:
- The applicant has a tight deadline for visa applications or immigration procedures.
- The applicant needs the police certificate for urgent legal purposes.
The fast-track processing generally reduces the time required to receive the certificate, typically completing the process in 2 to 5 working days.
| Service | Processing time | Fee | Details |
| Standard processing | 7–15 working days | 200,000 VND (First copy) | Standard timeline for most applications |
| Fast-track processing | 2–5 working days | Additional fee (Varies) | Faster processing available for urgent cases. Check with authorities for additional cost |
Availability of fast-track processing may depend on the local authority or the application method chosen. Always inquire beforehand to confirm the availability of this service and any extra charges.
FAQs about police checks in Vietnam
Here are some frequently asked questions (FAQs) about police checks in Vietnam. These questions cover common concerns and provide clarity for applicants, especially for those applying from abroad or needing the certificate for specific purposes.
Can I apply online from abroad?
Yes, it is possible to apply for a police certificate from abroad via the National Public Service Portal (https://dichvucong.gov.vn). However, the process requires you to either visit the Vietnamese embassy or consulate in your country of residence to submit documents or appoint a proxy within Vietnam to handle the application on your behalf.
What’s the difference between Form No. 1 and Form No. 2?
There are two types of police certificates issued in Vietnam:
- Form No. 1: This certificate lists only unexpunged criminal records (i.e., criminal records that have not been erased or cleared). It is typically used for visa applications, work permits, or immigration procedures where only current criminal convictions are required.
- Form No. 2: This form includes all criminal records, even those that have been erased or cleared from your record. It is required in cases where full disclosure of criminal history is necessary, such as in legal proceedings or when applying for immigration in certain countries.
How long is a Vietnamese police certificate valid?
A Vietnamese police certificate typically remains valid for 6 months from the date of issuance. This validity period is standard for most countries and is based on the assumption that a person’s criminal record can change over time.
Important considerations:
- If the certificate is being used for visa applications, immigration, or work permits, check with the relevant authorities in the destination country or organization to ensure the validity period aligns with their requirements.
- In some cases, authorities may request an updated certificate if the application process takes longer than 6 months.
Do I need it for a temporary visa?
Whether you need a police certificate for a temporary visa depends on the specific requirements of the country you are applying to.
Typically, a police certificate is required for:
- Long-term visas (such as work visas, student visas, or residency permits)
- Permanent residency applications
- Family reunification visas
For temporary visas, such as tourist visas or short-term business visas, a police certificate is generally not required unless specified by the destination country. Always check with the embassy or consulate of the country you are applying to for the specific visa requirements.
Obtaining a Vietnam police check or criminal record certificate is a straightforward process, whether you’re applying from within Vietnam or abroad. By following the necessary steps, gathering required documents, and choosing the appropriate application method, you can ensure a smooth and efficient experience.
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