Vietnam to require electronic ID or kiosks for most flight procedures from December

According to Directive No. 24 recently signed by Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh, all other passengers must complete the entire process, from booking tickets and check-in to security checks and boarding, using the VNeID app with biometric authentication or at self-service kiosks.

The Ministry of Public Security was told to coordinate with relevant ministries and local authorities nationwide to deploy biometric systems linked to the national digital ID platform at all airports across Vietnam by October this year.

The system will also be expanded to metro stations and parking facilities in Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City within the same timeframe.

The Ministry of Public Security will also be responsible for developing transportation-related utilities within the VNeID app, enabling integration with existing transport services and ensuring nationwide data compatibility.

The Ministry of Finance was tasked with overseeing infrastructure investments, including the purchase and installation of equipment to support biometric identification at airports.

As per the directive, these upgrades must be completed before October 30.

From September 15 to November 30, passengers will begin providing biometric data through airport counters or the VNeID app for use at automated security and boarding gates.

Local carriers and airports are expected to introduce incentives to encourage travelers to adopt biometric-based digital ID procedures.

On December 1, the policy will take full effect, marking a major shift toward digital travel services in Vietnam.