Incorporating state-of-the-art security measures and a contemporary aesthetic, the new Vietnam passport marks a significant advancement from its predecessor. Beyond its role as a travel document, the redesigned Vietnam passport stands as a symbol of Vietnam's dynamic presence on the global platform, encapsulating its strides towards modernization, international connectivity, and the preservation of its rich heritage.
1. New Vietnam passport without electronic chips
In the early days of July 2022, a remarkable transformation unfolded within the realm of Vietnamese passports. Departing from the prior model, the new Vietnamese passport without an electronic chip was unveiled. The updated model bears a purple-blue cover, a departure from the erstwhile green.
Each page of the new Vietnamese passport proudly showcases iconic vignettes of Vietnam's stunning landscapes (Hue Imperial Citadel, Ha Long Bay, Hung Temple, Hoi An Ancient Town, My Son Sanctuary, Nha Rong Wharf, Lung Cu Flagpole, etc.), underscoring its national sovereignty and cultural legacy, all intended to spotlight the nation's allure on the global stage.
Vietnam's new passport design seamlessly amalgamates security mechanisms, making it easily manageable for competent authorities while ensuring user-friendliness and minimizing potential complications.
Open to all Vietnamese citizens with unblemished records, the new passport epitomizes a trusty companion for international travel.
Holders of the preceding Vietnamese passport model issued before July 1, 2022, can continue utilizing it until its stipulated expiration date. However, passports following the old design and issued after July 1, 2022, will not retain validity.
2. New Vietnam passport with electronic chips
Starting March 1, 2023, ordinary passports for Vietnamese citizens come with embedded electronic chips, marking a significant update in Vietnam's new passport design. These chips securely store encrypted holder information and issuer signatures, reflecting a progressive approach to facilitate citizen convenience, enhance immigration governance, and meet international integration demands. This opportunity is available to Vietnamese citizens aged 14 and older, emphasizing its broad accessibility.
How to renew a Vietnam passport with electronic chips? For those desiring a new Vietnam passport, a personal visit to either the Vietnam Immigration Department, the Ministry of Public Security, or local Immigration Offices in provinces or cities is required for ease of process.
Upon submitting your application for a fresh passport, your previous passport will be collected, invalidated, and subsequently returned along with your newly issued passport.
>>> Read more: Vietnam passport samples and updates on important changes
2.1. Features of new Vietnam passport with electronic chips
The new Vietnam passport featuring an electronic chip incorporates an electronic device to securely house encrypted data about the passport holder and the issuer's signature. Notably, all printed passport elements, including content and imagery, are produced using cutting-edge technology, adhering to security protocols, thwarting forgery, and aligning with ICAO norms.
In terms of appearance, chip and non-chip passports share an identical purple-blue cover. Moreover, the Vietnamese new passport's pages vividly showcase Vietnam's characteristic landscapes and cultural treasures.
2.2. Benefits of using a new Vietnam passport with electronic chips
The new Vietnam passport with electronic chips brings plenty of benefits. Below are the outstanding advantages:
- The utilization of biometric identification technology simplifies passport control, thereby facilitating smoother travel between countries.
- Holders of passports with electronic chips receive preferential treatment in the visa application process, streamlining entry considerations.
- Information stored within the chip boasts heightened security measures, rendering information replication considerably challenging.
- The adoption of the electronic chip passport catalyzes profound socio-economic progress, elevating the status of Vietnamese passports and actively fostering regional and global integration for the nation.
>>> Discover crucial information about Vietnam passport stamps for international visitors!
3. Which countries accept a new Vietnam passport?
Is a passport required for Vietnamese nationals when traveling abroad? Definitely yes. How powerful is the Vietnam passport? In the realm of Vietnam passport ranking, the current standing is at the 96th spot on the Guide Passport Index. Vietnamese nationals get visa-free access to a notable number of 49 destinations around the world.
The recognition of the new Vietnam passport extends across the globe as it aligns with international regulations and gains acceptance from numerous countries. An exception arises with the Czech Republic's embassy, which has temporarily suspended visa issuance for this passport version due to the absence of "place of birth" information.
In response to the ongoing controversy, starting January 1, 2023, the Ministry of Public Security along with overseas Vietnamese representative agencies introduced passports featuring appended "place of birth" information. Ordinary passports issued before January 1, 2023, based on the previous format, remain valid until their indicated expiration dates.
There are changes in the personal information on the new Vietnam passport, but the layout, composition, and security features remain unchanged. The "surname" and "given names" are now divided into separate lines, and it is noteworthy that the "place of birth" has been included on this page. Thanks to these changes, the immigration procedures for Vietnamese nationals have been simplified, and it is now much easier for foreign authorities to recognize the names of individuals. Additionally, uncertainty in transactions and document issuance for Vietnamese nationals living abroad is lessened.
4. How much is the fee for getting a new Vietnam passport
The new Vietnam passport fee was specified in Circular No. 44/2023/TT-BTC by the Ministry of Finance in June 2023. The specific costs to issue a new Vietnam passport, both with and without chips, are as follows:
| From January 7, 2023, to December 31, 2023 | |
| New issuance | 160,000 VND |
| Reissuance (lost or missing passports) | 320,000 VND |
| From January 1, 2024 | |
| New issuance | 200,000 VND |
| Reissuance (lost or missing passports) | 400,000 VND |
>>> Read more about Vietnam passport renewal: Guide to formalities and necessary steps
For individuals planning Vietnam travel, it is absolutely important to equip yourself with essential details about Vietnam visas such as how to get a Vietnamese visa, Vietnam visa exemption, e-visa for Vietnam, Vietnam entry requirements, etc. Moreover, do not forget to check the best time to visit Vietnam to ensure a seamless and enjoyable journey.
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The new Vietnam passport encapsulates the nation's journey towards modernity and international integration. With its innovative security features and thoughtfully designed aesthetics, the passport not only ensures safe and efficient travel but also reflects Vietnam's dynamic presence in the global community.
