7 Crucial Things Foreigners Must Know About Criminal Record Certificate Service in Vietnam

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Why Getting a Criminal Record Certificate in Vietnam Can Be a Hassle for Foreigners?

If you’ve ever tried to apply for a job in specific areas, visa for immigration in some countries, work permit, or business license, sometimes you are asked to provide the criminal record certificate anywhere you lived more than 3 months. Without it, many legal processes stall, causing stress, delays, and sometimes outright rejection.

The criminal record certificate service in Vietnam is essential for foreigners who have lived or worked in the Vietnam, but navigating the process can be confusing. With unclear requirements, language barriers, and slow bureaucratic procedures, many applicants find themselves stuck.

This guide provides you with some ideas about obtaining your criminal record certificate as a foreigner so you can get your certificate efficiently, avoid pitfalls, and make informed decisions.

What Is a Criminal Record Certificate in Vietnam?

A Criminal Record Certificate (also known as a Judicial Record Certificate) is an official document issued by the Department of Justice in Vietnam. It states whether an individual has any past criminal convictions within Vietnam’s jurisdiction.

There are two types of criminal record certificates in Vietnam:

Form No. 1 – Used for general purposes (employment, immigration, licensing).

Shows any unexpunged convictions.
Often required for work permits and visa extensions.

Form No. 2 – Used for legal procedures (court cases, deeper background checks).

Includes all past convictions, even those expunged.
Typically required for litigation or legal disputes.

For most foreigners, Form No. 1 is sufficient, unless an authority explicitly requests Form No. 2.

Who Needs a Criminal Record Certificate in Vietnam?

The criminal record certificate service in Vietnam is necessary for foreigners in the following situations:

Applying for a Work Permit – Employers require it to verify legal eligibility.
Renewing a Visa or Temporary Residence Card – Some long-term visas require proof of a clean record.
Applying for Citizenship or Permanent Residency – The government needs to confirm no past criminal activity.
Setting Up a Business – Investors and business owners may be asked for a criminal record certificate.
Adopting a Child in Vietnam – Authorities ensure a safe environment for adopted children.
Legal Proceedings – Some court cases may require proof of criminal history or a clean record.

If you have never lived in Vietnam, you do not need a Vietnamese criminal record certificate. Instead, authorities may request one from your home country.

Where to Apply for a Criminal Record Certificate in Vietnam?

Foreigners must apply at the Department of Justice in the province where they last resided in Vietnam.

Additionally, some provinces offer online applications through the National Public Service Portal, though the process may still require in-person verification.

If you are no longer in Vietnam, you can authorize someone (such as a law firm or service provider) to apply on your behalf.

When Should You Apply? (Processing Time & Validity Period)

Applying early is key to avoiding unnecessary delays. Consider Standard Processing between 10–15 working days, however most of the time the issues arise from the authorization process or identifying the right authority to submit to.

The criminal record certificate is valid for six months from the date of issuance. If your application process (e.g., visa renewal, work permit application) takes longer, you may need to reapply for a new certificate.

Why Do Foreigners Struggle with the Criminal Record Certificate Process?

Many foreigners face frustrations when trying to obtain a criminal record certificate in Vietnam, including:

Unclear or Changing Requirements – Different provinces may have slightly different rules.
Language Barriers – Official documents and applications are in Vietnamese.
Complicated Document Requirements – Foreigners often need extra paperwork.
Slow Processing Times – Government offices can be inefficient, leading to delays.
Not Being in Vietnam – Those who have left Vietnam must authorize someone to act on their behalf, adding complexity.

To avoid these problems, many foreigners hire a criminal record certificate service in Vietnam to handle the paperwork, translations, and follow-ups.

How to Apply for a Criminal Record Certificate in Vietnam? (Step-by-Step Guide)

Follow this step-by-step process to apply smoothly:

Step 1: Prepare Required Documents

Passport (original & copy).
Vietnamese visa or residence permit (original & copy).
Temporary residence confirmation from local police.
Application form (available at the Department of Justice).
Authorization letter (if applying through a representative).

Step 2: Submit Your Application

Visit the Department of Justice in person OR
Apply online (if available in your province).

Step 3: Pay the Processing Fee

Fees vary by province but not significant

Step 4: Wait for Processing

Normal processing: 10–15 working days.

Step 5: Collect the Certificate

Pick it up in person OR
Have it delivered (some provinces offer mail services).

How Criminal Record Certificate Services in Vietnam Can Help Foreigners

Given the challenges involved, many foreigners choose to use a professional service rather than handling the process themselves. Here’s why:

Saves Time – No need to visit multiple offices or deal with bureaucracy.
Avoids Language Barriers – Experts handle all paperwork and translations.
Handles Remote Applications – If you’re no longer in Vietnam, services can apply on your behalf.
Ensures Accuracy – Prevents mistakes that cause delays.
Expedited Processing – Some services can speed up approval.

If you want to avoid frustration, a criminal record certificate service in Vietnam can make the process seamless.

Final Thoughts: Get Your Criminal Record Certificate Without Stress

Obtaining a criminal record certificate in Vietnam as a foreigner doesn’t have to be a nightmare. By understanding who needs it, where to apply, common challenges, and how services can help, you can avoid delays and ensure a smooth process.

If you’re struggling with paperwork, deadlines, or just don’t have the time, consider using a reliable criminal record certificate service in Vietnam to handle everything for you.

About ANT Lawyers, a Law Firm in Vietnam

We help clients overcome cultural barriers and achieve their strategic and financial outcomes, while ensuring the best interest rate protection, risk mitigation and regulatory compliance. ANT lawyers has lawyers in Ho Chi Minh city, Hanoi, and Danang, and will help customers in doing business in Vietnam.