Services
Criminal record certificate service for foreigners in Vietnam
A criminal record certificate confirms whether you have any convictions from your time in Vietnam. We file on your behalf under authorisation and send you the result, even if you have already left Vietnam.
Overview
What is a criminal record certificate
It is a document issued by the competent Vietnamese authority, commonly required for work permits, immigration, study, marriage or employment in another country.
Two types of certificate
| Type | What it shows | Commonly used for |
|---|---|---|
| Certificate No. 1 | Only convictions that have not been expunged | Work permits, employment and most administrative procedures |
| Certificate No. 2 | All convictions, including expunged ones | Immigration files, when a foreign authority asks for it. Usually requested in person, with limited use of authorisation |
Requirements and documents
What you need to prepare
Who needs it
- Foreigners living in Vietnam who need it for a work permit application.
- People who used to live in Vietnam and now need it for another country's immigration authority.
- People who need it for marriage, adoption or study.
What you need
- Your passport (certified copy).
- Proof of residence in Vietnam: temporary residence card, residence confirmation, visa and entry/exit stamps.
- The application form.
- A letter of authorisation (when filing through Gateway Visa).
What we do for you
- 1
We confirm which certificate you need for your purpose.
- 2
We gather the documents and prepare the form and authorisation letter.
- 3
We file with the competent authority.
- 4
We collect the certificate, email you a scan and courier the original (within Vietnam or abroad).
Costs
- Government fee: as currently regulated.
- Service fee: quoted case by case.
- International courier, translation and legalisation (if needed).
Important notes
- The authority that receives criminal record applications changed in 2025. Procedures and filing locations should be checked against the latest rules.
- Certificates are usually accepted only within 6 months of issue. Do not apply too early.
- A work permit file may also need a criminal record from your home country or previous country of residence. That one must be obtained there and consular-legalised.
I have left Vietnam. Can I still apply?
Yes, through authorisation. Contact us and we will explain the authorisation documents that fit where you are now.
Should I apply for No. 1 or No. 2?
It depends on who is asking. Check with the receiving authority, or send us their request and we will work it out.
Quote
Get advice on your case
You get a document checklist, an expected timeline and a specific quote by email.
Gateway Visa is a private company providing advice and procedural support. It is not a government agency. Visas and related documents are issued at the decision of the competent Vietnamese authorities.