Vietnam authorities warn of identity issues following major facial changes

The Ministry of Public Security and authorities at Noi Bai International Airport have issued a warning to citizens regarding significant changes in physical appearance, such as those resulting from cosmetic surgery.

When a person's actual face changes substantially and no longer matches the portrait on their official identification, they may encounter difficulties during identity verification processes. Authorities advise that individuals who undergo major facial changes should update their citizen identity cards and passports before attempting to travel abroad.

The Ministry reported real-world instances where passport applications were delayed or suspended because facial recognition systems could not successfully match the applicant's current appearance with the existing national population database. In one case in Ninh Binh, a citizen had to update their identity card to synchronize new data before a passport could be issued. Another individual was required to visit immigration authorities in person to re-submit declarations and photos to resolve discrepancies.