HCMC – Vietnam will begin implementing the 1961 Hague Convention Abolishing the Requirement of Legalisation for Foreign Public Documents (Apostille Convention) on September 11, simplifying the recognition of foreign public documents.
Deputy Prime Minister Bui Thanh Son signed Decision No. 330/QD-TTg on February 25, approving a comprehensive plan to carry out the convention. The move is aimed at streamlining authentication procedures and gradually introducing electronic Apostilles (e-Apostilles).
Under the plan, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs will take the lead in drafting a guiding decree for submission to the Government by June 15. A centralized digital database and a management system for Apostille stamps will be developed, allowing applications to be submitted and processed through the National Public Service Portal.
These systems are expected to be fully operational before the September 11 effective date to ensure a smooth transition for individuals and businesses.
The plan also calls for closer coordination with the Ministry of Public Security to prevent document fraud.
Between 2027 and 2030, the authority to issue Apostille certificates will be decentralized to specialized agencies under provincial-level governments to improve access nationwide.
By replacing the multi-step consular legalization process with a single Apostille certificate, Vietnam aims to cut both costs and processing times for activities related to international education, labor mobility and investment.
