Vietnam Police Clearance FAQs: Quick Answers to Common Questions

Obtaining a Vietnam police clearance certificate (PCC) is crucial for those applying for visas, work permits, immigration, or residency in different countries. However, the process can be confusing, especially for foreigners or those unfamiliar with Vietnam’s legal system. 

This comprehensive blog post answers the most commonly asked questions about obtaining a Vietnam PCC, covering eligibility, required documents, processing time, and everyday challenges. Whether you need the certificate for employment, study, or migration, this article provides step-by-step details to make the process easier and error-free.

What is a Vietnam police clearance certificate, and who needs it?

A Vietnam police clearance certificate (PCC), also known as a criminal record certificate, is an official document issued by the Vietnamese authorities. It states whether an individual has any criminal record in Vietnam during their stay.

Who needs it?

• Foreigners who have lived or worked in Vietnam require it for visa or immigration purposes.
• Vietnamese citizens applying for jobs, visas, or permanent residency abroad.
• Individuals seeking to adopt a child from Vietnam.
• Businesses conducting background checks on potential employees.

Where can I apply for a Vietnam police clearance certificate?

You can apply at the following offices in Vietnam:

• Department of Justice in the city/province where you last resided.
• National Center for Criminal Record (NCCR) under the Ministry of Justice in Hanoi.
• If you are applying from outside Vietnam, you may apply through:
• The Vietnamese Embassy or Consulate in your current country.
• A trusted third-party agency that specializes in obtaining PCCs on behalf of applicants.

What are the types of Vietnam police clearance certificates?

Vietnam issues two types of police clearance certificates:

Form No. 1 – This is issued for general purposes like employment, visa, or work permits. It only lists convictions that have not been erased.

Form No. 2 – Legal authorities usually require this and contain an entire criminal history, including erased and non-erased convictions.

For most visa or employment-related applications, Form No. 1 is sufficient.

What documents are required to apply for a Vietnam police clearance certificate?

The required documents vary depending on whether you apply inside or outside Vietnam.

For applicants inside Vietnam:

• Completed application form
• Original and copy of passport
• Original and copy of Vietnam visa/residence permit
• Proof of address in Vietnam (rental contract, household registration book, etc.)

For applicants outside Vietnam:

• Completed application form
• Certified copy of passport
• Proof of previous residence in Vietnam
• Authorization letter (if applying through a third party)
• Some applicants may need their PCC translated and notarized for official use abroad.

How long does it take to process a Vietnam police clearance certificate?

The processing time depends on where you apply:

• Department of Justice in Vietnam: 10–15 working days.
• National Center for Criminal Record (NCCR): 10–15 working days.
• Applying through an embassy/consulate: 30–45 days.
• Using an agency: 7–10 working days (faster processing is often available).

Processing may take longer if additional background verification is needed.

How much does it cost to get a Vietnam police clearance certificate?

The cost varies depending on where you apply:

• Inside Vietnam: Approximately 200,000 VND – 400,000 VND ($8–USD 16).
• Through an embassy or consulate: Fees vary by country and may include additional charges for notarization and translation.
• Through an agency: Fees range from $100–USD 250, depending on the urgency of the request.

Additional costs may apply for translation, notarization, and express services.

Can I apply for a Vietnam police clearance certificate online?

Currently, Vietnam does not offer a fully online application process for foreigners. However:

• Vietnamese citizens can apply online through the National Public Service Portal (https://dichvucong.gov.vn).
• Foreigners must apply in person or authorize a representative to apply.
• Some agencies provide online assistance for submitting documents and tracking applications, but an official in-person visit is still required.

Can I apply for a Vietnam police clearance certificate from abroad?

Yes, if you are no longer in Vietnam, you can apply through:

• Vietnamese Embassies or Consulates in your country.
• A third-party agency in Vietnam with a notarized authorization letter.

Since embassies often take longer, using an agency is the fastest way to obtain the PCC from abroad.

What happens if my name is misspelt or incorrect on the police clearance certificate?

Errors on the certificate can lead to delays in your visa or job application. If your name or other details are incorrect, you should:

• Immediately notify the issuing authority (Department of Justice or NCCR).
• Provide supporting documents (passport, visa, etc.) to correct the mistake.
• If you applied through an agency, ask them to handle the correction on your behalf.

Corrections may take an additional 5–10 business days.

Does a Vietnam police clearance certificate expire?

Yes, the validity of a Vietnam PCC depends on the purpose:

• For visa and immigration applications: Usually valid for 3–6 months from the date of issuance.
• For employment and other legal purposes: Some employers accept certificates up to 1 year old, but it varies.

If your certificate has expired, you must apply for a new one.

Can I obtain a Vietnam police clearance certificate if I do not have a Vietnam residence permit?

Yes, but it can be more complicated. If you lived in Vietnam without a residence permit (e.g., on a tourist visa or short-term stay), you may still apply for a PCC, but you will need:

• A passport copy showing your visa stamps and entry/exit records.
• Proof of residence (such as hotel bookings, rental agreements, or employer confirmation).
• A third-party authorization letter if you’re applying from outside Vietnam.

Since local authorities rely on residence history for background checks, the lack of a residence permit may slow down processing or require additional verification.

Can I get a Vietnam police clearance certificate if I live in multiple cities in Vietnam?

Yes. However, you may need to apply in the province or city where you resided the longest.

Authorities may conduct checks across those areas if you live in multiple locations. To speed up the process:

• Specify all past addresses in Vietnam on your application form.
• If unsure, apply at the National Center for Criminal Record (NCCR) in Hanoi, as it covers all regions.
• Using an agency can help track records across multiple provinces.
• Processing time may be slightly longer due to checks in different jurisdictions.

How do I authenticate or legalize a Vietnam police clearance certificate for use abroad?

Most countries require the PCC to be authenticated before accepting it for visas or work permits. The process involves:

• Notarization – Get a certified copy from the Justice Department.
• Legalization by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA) Vietnam – This step verifies the document's authenticity.
• Embassy Authentication: If required, get the PCC authenticated at the embassy of the country where you intend to use it.

Some countries require an Apostille instead of embassy authentication. Always check your destination country’s requirements.

Can I request an urgent or expedited Vietnam police clearance certificate?

Yes, expedited services are available, but depend on where you apply:

• Department of Justice: No official fast-track option, but processing may take 7–10 days instead of 15.
• National Center for Criminal Record (NCCR): Standard processing time of 10–15 days, with some cases expedited upon request.
• Private Agencies: Many agencies offer expedited PCC services for an additional fee in 5–7 days.

Using a trusted third-party agency is the fastest option, especially if applying from outside Vietnam.

Can someone else collect my Vietnam police clearance certificate on my behalf?

Yes, you can authorize someone to collect your PCC if you cannot do so in person. You will need:

• A notarized authorization letter (if inside Vietnam, notarize locally; if abroad, notarize at the Vietnamese Embassy).
• A copy of your passport and visa/residence permit.
• Your representative’s identification documents (passport or Vietnamese ID).

Agencies can act as your authorized representative if you are applying from overseas.

What are the most common mistakes when applying for a Vietnam police clearance certificate?

Many applications are delayed or rejected due to the following:

• Incorrect personal details: Ensure your name matches exactly as in your passport.
• Missing address history: Authorities need a complete record of where you lived in Vietnam.
• Submitting incomplete documents – Every supporting document must be included, especially proof of residence.
• Applying at the wrong office – If unsure, apply through the National Center for Criminal Record to avoid rejection at the local Justice Department.
• Poorly notarized authorization letter – If applying abroad, ensure the notarization meets Vietnam’s legal requirements.

Avoiding these mistakes can save weeks in processing time.

Can I apply for a Vietnam police clearance certificate if I no longer have my old Vietnam visa?

Yes, but you may need to prove your past stay through alternative documents such as:

• Old passport scans showing entry/exit stamps.
• Employer letters confirming work history.
• Bank statements or tax records linked to your Vietnam stay.
• Rental agreements or official residence registration.

If none are available, applying through an agency may help retrieve records from Vietnam’s immigration system.

How can I check the status of my Vietnam police clearance application?

Currently, there is no online tracking system for Vietnam PCC applications. However, you can:

• Call or visit the office where you applied.
• Check through your authorized representative if someone is handling it on your behalf.
• Use an agency that provides status updates via email or phone.

Most applications take 10–15 working days, so wait at least a week before checking.

Can I use my Vietnam police clearance certificate in multiple countries?

Yes, but it must be legalized or apostilled in different countries.

• If using it for multiple visa applications, request multiple notarized copies.
• Some countries require a recent PCC, typically not older than 3–6 months.
• If moving between countries, check if a new PCC is required from your latest country of residence.

What should I do if my Vietnam police clearance certificate is lost or damaged?

You must apply for a duplicate copy if your PCC is lost or damaged. Steps include:

• Re-applying at the same office where it was issued.
• Provide the original application reference number (if available).
• If you applied through an agency, contact them for a reissue request.

In most cases, reissuing takes the same time as a new application, 10–15 working days.

Can I apply for a Vietnam police clearance certificate if I only stayed in Vietnam briefly?

Yes, even if you stayed in Vietnam briefly, you can still apply for a PCC. However, the approval process depends on:

• Length of stay – If your stay was too short, authorities may not have a record of you.
• Visa type – A business or residence visa is more traceable than a tourist visa.
• Supporting documents – Immigration stamps, employment records, or rental agreements help prove your stay.

If you are outside Vietnam, using an authorized agency simplifies the process.

What is the difference between Vietnam Police Clearance Certificate No. 1 and No. 2?

Vietnam issues two types of police clearance certificates:

Form No. 1 – For general purposes like work, marriage, or residency applications. It only lists criminal convictions (if any).

Form No. 2 – Used for legal and judicial purposes. It includes criminal convictions and expunged records, meaning even past offenses no longer valid will appear.

Most visa and employment applications require Form No. 1, while Form No. 2 is used for court cases or legal investigations.

Is a Vietnam police clearance certificate required for U.S., Canada, Australia, and Europe visa applications?

Many countries require a PCC from Vietnam if you lived there for six months or more. Here’s a general guideline:

• United States: Required for employment-based visas, green card applications, and naturalization.
• Canada: Essential for permanent residency and work visas. Must be authenticated before submission.
• Australia: Needed for citizenship, permanent residency, and skilled migration visas.
• Europe (Schengen visas): Not always required but may be requested for long-term stays or residency permits.

Always check specific embassy guidelines, as requirements vary by country.

Do I need a Vietnamese national to sponsor my PCC application?

No, a Vietnamese sponsor is not mandatory. However, if you:

• No longer live in Vietnam, a local representative (friend, employer, or agency) can help process your application faster.
• Have limited Vietnamese documents; a sponsor may assist in retrieving records.
• If you are applying from abroad, an authorized service provider can act on your behalf without requiring a personal connection in Vietnam.

What is the validity period of a Vietnam police clearance certificate?

Vietnam’s PCC does not have a fixed expiration date. However, different institutions and countries impose their own validity rules:

• Most embassies and immigration offices accept PCCs under 3 to 6 months old.
• Employers may require a fresh PCC if the job starts more than six months after issuance.
• Some authorities may accept PCCs up to one year old, but this is rare.

If unsure, always confirm with the requesting organization before submitting an old PCC.

Can I get a Vietnam police clearance certificate if I have unpaid fines or pending legal issues?

You can still apply, but your PCC may reflect unresolved legal matters. Authorities check for:

• Outstanding fines (traffic violations, overstaying visa penalties, etc.).
• Pending legal investigations related to criminal activity.

If any unresolved cases exist, your PCC may be delayed or denied. It’s best to settle all fines and clear legal records before applying.

What should I do if my name is misspelled on my Vietnam police clearance certificate?

Mistakes in personal details can cause visa or job application rejections. If your PCC contains errors:

• Request a correction immediately from the issuing office.
• Provide documents proving the correct spelling (passport, birth certificate, etc.).
• If applying abroad, send a notarized request via a representative or agency.

Corrections usually take 5–10 additional working days. Always double-check details before submission to avoid delays.

Can I use a Vietnam police clearance certificate issued in English?

Vietnamese PCCs are issued only in Vietnamese. To use it internationally, you must:

• Get it officially translated by a certified translation service.
• Notarize the translation at a Vietnamese notary office.
• Legalize or apostille the document at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (if required).

Most countries do not accept self-translated PCCs, so ensure you use an authorized translator.

How can foreigners apply for a Vietnam police clearance certificate while living in Vietnam?

If you are still residing in Vietnam, follow these steps:

• Visit the Department of Justice in the province where you reside.

Submit:

• Passport copy & original.
• Visa or residence permit.
• Temporary residence registration (from your landlord or local police).
• Pay the processing fee.
• Wait 10–15 working days for results.

If you stay long-term, registering your residence properly ensures a smoother PCC application process.

Can I apply for a Vietnam police clearance certificate for a deceased relative?

Yes, but it’s a complex process requiring legal proof of relationship. The applicant must provide:

• Proof of death (death certificate).
• Legal documents proving the relationship (birth certificate, marriage certificate, etc.).
• Authorization letter if applying via an agent.

This is usually requested for inheritance, legal settlements, or family immigration applications. Processing may take longer due to document verification.

Is a police clearance certificate required for Vietnamese citizenship applications?

A PCC is mandatory when applying for Vietnamese naturalization or permanent residency. Applicants must:

• Provide a PCC from Vietnam and all other countries where they lived.
• Ensure the PCC is not older than six months.
• Submit a translated and authenticated version if obtained from a foreign country.
• Citizenship or residency applications may be delayed or rejected without a valid PCC.

What happens if my Vietnam police clearance certificate shows a past criminal record?

If your PCC lists a criminal offense, different outcomes may occur:

• Some countries reject visa or immigration applications for criminal records.
• Minor offenses may be overlooked, mainly if they occurred long ago.
• Some convictions can be expunged, meaning they won’t appear after a specific time.

If you believe your record is incorrect, request a review or appeal through legal channels in Vietnam.

Can I apply for a Vietnam police clearance certificate without my old visa or residence permit?

Yes, you can still apply for a Vietnam police clearance certificate even if you no longer have your old visa or residence permit. However, the application process may be more complicated as the authorities need to verify your past stay in Vietnam.

You must provide supporting documents that prove your residence, such as a copy of your old passport with entry and exit stamps, work permits, rental agreements, or employment contracts. If you do not have any of these, you may need to request official travel history records from the immigration office. Hiring an authorized agency can simplify the process by retrieving relevant records on your behalf.

What should I do if my Vietnam police clearance certificate is lost or damaged?

If your original PCC is lost or damaged, you must apply for a reissuance. Unfortunately, Vietnamese authorities do not automatically provide duplicate copies, meaning you must submit a new application.

The process remains the same as the first time, requiring you to provide identification documents and proof of your stay in Vietnam. If you applied through an agency, check if they kept a scanned copy for your reference. To avoid future losses, always make certified copies and keep digital backups of your PCC once received.

Is a police clearance certificate required for Vietnamese work permits and business visas?

A Vietnam police clearance certificate is often required when applying for a work permit or business visa. The requirement depends on the employer and the type of visa you are applying for. If you are applying for a work permit for the first time, the authorities may ask for a PCC from Vietnam if you have lived there for six months or more.

If you are outside Vietnam, they may require a PCC from your home country instead. It is always advisable to confirm with your employer or the labor department before applying, as rules may change depending on the industry and specific job role.

Can I request a police clearance certificate for someone else in Vietnam?

Yes, it is possible to apply for a Vietnam police clearance certificate on behalf of someone else, but only under specific conditions. You must provide the individual's notarized authorization letter, allowing you to act on their behalf. This letter must be signed and legalized if the person resides abroad.

You will also need to submit their passport copy, residence history, and other supporting documents. Many people use this option when they are no longer in Vietnam but need a PCC for immigration or employment purposes. Hiring an agency or legal representative can help expedite this process.

How can I verify the authenticity of a Vietnam police clearance certificate?

To verify the authenticity of a Vietnam police clearance certificate, you must check for the official seal and signature from the Department of Justice in the issuing province. Additionally, if the PCC is required for international purposes, you may need to have it notarized, legalized, or apostilled by the Vietnamese Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

Some embassies and foreign immigration departments may also have online verification portals where they cross-check documents. If you use a third party to obtain your PCC, always ensure they are reputable to avoid receiving fraudulent or altered documents.

What is the role of the Vietnamese Ministry of Foreign Affairs in the PCC process?

The Vietnamese Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA) plays a crucial role in certifying police clearance certificates for international use. While the Department of Justice issues the PCC, MOFA is responsible for legalizing the document if it needs to be submitted abroad. Legalization ensures that foreign governments, embassies, and immigration offices officially recognize the PCC. This step is often required for visa applications, overseas employment, or foreign residency permits. Without proper legalization, many countries may reject the PCC, leading to delays in processing.

Are there any specific requirements for obtaining a PCC for marriage purposes in Vietnam?

Yes, if you need a Vietnam police clearance certificate for marriage purposes, particularly for marrying a Vietnamese citizen or applying for a fiancé(e) visa abroad, additional documentation may be required. Some embassies request a PCC to confirm that the foreign applicant has no criminal history that could affect their eligibility for marriage.

In addition to the standard application, you may need to submit a copy of your partner’s Vietnamese ID card, proof of relationship, and sometimes a declaration of single status. Since marriage-related PCC applications can have stricter verification processes, it is best to check with the relevant authorities before applying.

Can a Vietnam police clearance certificate be used in multiple countries?

Yes, a Vietnam police clearance certificate can be used in multiple countries, but you may need to have it legalized separately for each country where you intend to use it. Some nations require an apostille under the Hague Convention, while others need embassy authentication. If you plan to submit the PCC for different visa or residency applications, it is advisable to request multiple copies and have each one certified accordingly. This prevents needing to reapply for a new PCC in case additional applications arise later.

Can I apply for a Vietnam police clearance certificate online?

Yes, Vietnam allows online applications for a police clearance certificate, but the process is limited in some instances. The Department of Justice in major cities like Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City provides an online application system where you can fill out the form, upload scanned copies of your documents, and pay any applicable fees. However, in most cases, applicants must submit original documents in person or via mail for verification. If you are applying from abroad, you may need to authorize a representative in Vietnam to complete the process on your behalf.

What documents are required to apply for a police clearance certificate in Vietnam?

The required documents vary based on whether you apply within Vietnam or abroad. Generally, you will need:

• A completed application form.
• A copy of your passport (photo page and visa pages).
• A copy of your temporary or permanent residence card (if applicable).
• Proof of residence in Vietnam, such as a rental agreement or employer verification letter.
• A notarized authorization letter if someone else is applying on your behalf.
• Additional verification steps may be required for foreigners who no longer reside in Vietnam, such as immigration records or an affidavit stating your stay history.

Can I get my police clearance certificate translated and legalized for use abroad?

Yes, if you need to use your Vietnam police clearance certificate in another country, it must be translated into the required language and legalized. An accredited agency must do the translation, and the Vietnamese Ministry of Justice must certify the document. After translation, the document must be legalized by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and, in some cases, further authenticated by the destination country's embassy. This step is crucial for visa applications, immigration, or international employment.

Conclusion

Securing a Vietnam police clearance certificate doesn’t have to be complicated. You can ensure a smooth application process by understanding the requirements, procedures, and potential challenges. Contact a trusted agency for guidance and support if you need expert assistance in obtaining your PCC hassle-free.