Vietnam mandates facial biometric verification for mobile SIMs from June 2026

The Ministry of Science and Technology in Vietnam issued Circular 08/2026/TT‑BKHCN, effective 15 June 2026, requiring all mobile subscribers who change devices to re‑authenticate their SIM ownership. Authentication must be performed via facial biometrics or other approved methods through the national identity app VNeID, the operator’s own platform, or designated verification points.

Subscribers who fail to complete re‑verification within 30 days face temporary suspension of outbound calls and SMS, followed by possible two‑way service suspension, contract termination and permanent reclamation of the phone number. Four authentication options are outlined, and users already linked to VNeID Level 2 or chip‑embedded ID cards are exempt unless they switch devices after the cutoff date.

The measure aims to curb SIM‑related fraud, spam, and unauthorized access to banking or e‑wallet services by ensuring each mobile number remains tied to its rightful owner.