Why Doesn't the New Vietnamese Passport Have a Signature or Seal?

Many people have been wondering lately: why does the new Vietnamese passport (issued since 2022) no longer have a handwritten signature and round red seal like before? This is an official change, and here's the reasoning to help you understand it.

1. A modern design — no signature or red seal needed

The old passport had a handwritten signature and the issuing office's red seal. The new passport has removed both of these and replaced them with integrated security technologies, in line with the trend toward digitization and modern management.

2. Stronger security — harder to forge

The new passport incorporates many advanced security features, such as:

• Security imagery (hidden images)
• Color-shifting ink
• Microprinting

These features greatly reduce the risk of forgery and protect the holder's personal information.

3. Closer to international standards

Many countries have already moved away from handwritten signatures and red seals on passports, replacing them with electronic authentication and digital data. The new Vietnamese passport is designed along these lines, making immigration procedures more convenient.

4. Still fully legally valid

According to the immigration authorities, the new passport is completely legal and just as valid as the old design for all immigration procedures. There's no need to worry when holding the new passport.

Need to renew or get a new Vietnamese passport while in the U.S.? Message VietVisas for a free consultation.