# Vietnam identity and passport verification guidance > Live situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/vietnam-identity-and-passport-verification-guidance > Updated: 2026-10-03T01:24:44.000Z. Sources: 3. Developments: 2. Vietnamese authorities have issued guidance regarding identity verification and documentation requirements for travel. Initially, the Thanh Hoa Immigration Management Division clarified that while the VNeID application allows citizens to manage passport information for administrative convenience, the digital version “does not replace the physical passport.” Travelers must present a valid physical document to complete exit and entry procedures. Subsequently, the Ministry of Public Security and officials at Noi Bai International Airport warned that significant changes in physical appearance, such as those from cosmetic surgery, can cause identity verification failures. Authorities reported instances where passport applications were delayed or suspended because facial recognition systems could not match an applicant’s current appearance with the national population database. Citizens experiencing major facial changes are advised to update their citizen identity cards and passports to ensure data synchronization. ## Timeline ### 2026-10-03: Vietnam authorities warn of identity issues following major facial changes Vietnamese authorities warn that significant facial changes, such as from cosmetic surgery, may cause identity verification issues during passport and identity card processing. 2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/vietnam-authorities-warn-of-identity-issues-following-major-facial-changes ### 2026-09-30: Vietnam immigration warns VNeID passport integration does not replace physical documents Authorities warn that integrated passport information on the VNeID app cannot replace physical passports for exit and entry procedures at border gates. 3 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/vietnam-immigration-warns-vneid-passport-integration-does-not-replace-physical-documents --- Cite as: Vietnam identity and passport verification guidance. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/vietnam-identity-and-passport-verification-guidance