In Vietnam, acquiring a police clearance record is essential for foreigners who are seeking employment, applying for work permits, or are involved in various legal procedures. This official document, issued by an authorized agency within the Justice Department or the National Center for Judicial Records, verifies whether an individual has any criminal record in Vietnam.
The criminal record, known as “Phieu Ly lich Tu phap” in Vietnamese, is regulated by Clause 1, Article 2 of the 2009 Law on Judicial Records. As outlined in Article 2 of Law No. 28/2009/QH12, the police clearance certificate confirms an individual’s criminal record status and any related restrictions. Moreover, recent laws now allow foreigners who have lived in Vietnam for less than six months to apply for a criminal record. This article will provide a thorough guide to obtaining a clearance record in Vietnam.
Who Requires a Police Clearance or Criminal Record in Vietnam?
If you’re a foreigner living in Vietnam (or have lived here in the past), you might find yourself needing a Police Clearance or Criminal Record for various reasons, including:
- Applying for a Vietnam Work Permit
- Completing visa or immigration procedures for third countries
- Completing marriage procedures in Vietnam or abroad.
Types of Police Clearance Certificates in Vietnam
In Vietnam, there are two main types of Police Clearance Certificates. These are essential for various purposes like employment, visa applications, or legal processes. Here’s a breakdown:
Police Clearance Certificate No. 1
This record is for Vietnamese citizens and foreigners who have lived or are currently residing in Vietnam. It’s required for situations such as:
- Applying for a new job
- Getting a work permit
- Completing business registration or managing enterprises in Vietnam
The Police Clearance Certificate No. 1 includes:
- Personal details like full name, gender, date and place of birth, nationality, and ID/passport number
- Criminal record details:
- No criminal record (“Không có án tích”): For individuals with a clean record, or whose previous criminal convictions have been pardoned or updated.
- Criminal record present (“Có án tích”): For those with unresolved criminal violations or past criminal convictions, listing the crimes committed and related penalties.
Police Clearance Certificate No. 2
This certificate is for both Vietnamese citizens and foreigners who do not have permanent or temporary residence in Vietnam. It’s required for:
- Studying
- Marriage
- Job applications
- Citizenship requests
Government agencies may request this record for procedural, investigative, and legal purposes, helping with visa, marriage, and other documentation needs.
Eligibility Criteria for Obtaining a Police Clearance Record
Foreigners can obtain a Police Clearance Record (Criminal Record) in Vietnam if they meet the following conditions:
Temporary residency is confirmed through an expat’s Visa or Temporary Residence Card (TRC), along with registration details at the local police station in the commune, ward, or town where they are staying. The police issue a temporary resident book or certificate of temporary residence as proof.
Read More: Temporary Residence Card (TRC) In Vietnam: Definition, Requirements, And Validity
Documents Needed to Apply for a Police Clearance Certificate in Vietnam
To apply for a Police Clearance Certificate (Criminal Record) in Vietnam, the following documents are necessary:
- Form 03/2013/TT-LLTP for self-application or Form 04/2013/TT-LLTP for authorized applications.
- Certified copies of the passport and visa of the individual requesting the criminal record.
- A certified copy of the temporary residence registration certificate.
For authorization cases, additional documents are required:
Where to Obtain a Police Clearance Certificate?
Foreigners living in Vietnam need to submit their Police Clearance Certificate application to the Department of Justice in their place of residence.
For state agencies, political organizations, and socio-political organizations requesting the certificate on behalf of an individual, documents must be sent to the Department of Justice where the individual permanently resides or temporarily stays.
If it’s difficult to determine the individual’s permanent or temporary residence, the documents can be submitted to the National Center for Judicial Records.
How to Obtain a Police Clearance Certificate?
Getting a Police Clearance Certificate in Vietnam involves several steps. Here’s a simple guide to help you through the process:
Step 1: Online Registration
- Visit the official website: dichvucong.gov.vn and select your place of residence.
- Complete all required fields with accurate information, including full name, gender, date and place of birth, nationality, current and permanent addresses, and other relevant details.
- Upload the necessary documents as instructed.
- Review the information you provided, print the form, and sign it to finalize the application.
Step 2: Submit the Form
You have two options for submitting your application:
- In Person: Visit the Department of Justice during morning hours.
- By Mail: Alternatively, you can send the completed form through postal service.
Step 3: Complete the Payment Process
There are 3 payment methods for the criminal record issuance:
- Direct Transfer: Transfer money directly to the Department of Justice’s account. The money will be converted to Vietnamese currency at the current exchange rate if paid in foreign currency.
- In-Person Payment: You can make a direct payment at the Department of Justice (Note: this option does not apply for payments in foreign currencies).
- Postal Transfer: You can transfer money via postal service along with the application file and receipt of the fee transfer.
Step 4: Receive Appointment Letter
After completing all the procedures, you’ll receive an appointment letter. If you applied by mail, the appointment paper will be sent to your email once the process is complete.
Step 5: Get Your Police Clearance Certificate
Once your application is approved, you must visit the location where you applied to receive your certificate. If you applied by mail, the certificate will be sent to the address listed in your registration form.
Important Info on Processing Time, Fees & Validity
On average, it takes between 10 to 21 working days for the Department of Justice or the National Center for Judicial Records to process a police clearance request once all documents and payment have been received.
The standard fee for a Vietnam Police Clearance Certificate is VND 200,000. If you need more than two copies, each extra copy costs VND 5,000.
There’s no fixed rule on how long police clearance certificates are valid. The validity often depends on the requirements of different agencies or legal processes that need to verify a person’s criminal background.
Need Help? The Nest Asia Has You Covered
At The Nest Asia, we simplify the process of getting your Police Clearance Certificate in Vietnam. From preparing the right documents to handling work permits, visas, and business setup—we make sure everything is done right the first time.
Our friendly team of experts will walk you through each step, helping you avoid delays and confusion. Whether you’re applying locally or from abroad, we’re here to take the stress out of the process.
Let The Nest Asia handle the details—so you can focus on what’s next.
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The Nest Asia is a one-stop resource offering comprehensive information, practical relocation advice, cultural insights, valuable connections, and trusted services to help expatriates living in Vietnam navigate the transition, overcome challenges, and build a fulfilling life abroad. Starting your journey in a new country can often feel overwhelming. The Nest Asia is your trusted partner – we’re here to simplify that process and ultimately make Vietnam feel like home for you and your loved ones.
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Disclaimer: The Nest Asia is not an authorized provider of official government or non-government services. The information provided is intended for general guidance only. While we strive to offer accurate and timely information, we make no representations or warranties regarding its completeness or accuracy.
