On April 22, 2025, during a discussion titled "Connecting VNeID Safely and Conveniently" organized by báo Tuổi Trẻ, Thiếu tá Trần Duy Hiển, the Deputy Director of the National Population Data Center (C06, Ministry of Public Security), addressed widespread concerns among citizens regarding the validity of their documents following the merger of administrative units. He assured attendees that individuals could continue using their old documents, such as citizen identification cards (CCCD), birth certificates, and driver's licenses, as long as they remain valid, even if their administrative location has changed due to these mergers.
Thiếu tá Hiển emphasized, "The merging of administrative units does not require citizens to adjust or convert documents if they are still valid." This statement was in line with provisions outlined in Clause 1, Article 21 of Decree No. 35/2023 and Resolution No. 190/2025 from the National Assembly, which affirm that all documents issued prior to the administrative reorganization retain their validity until they expire. Reissuing CCCDs post-merger is not mandatory.
As part of the reorganization process, the update and adjustment of the list of administrative units will be managed by state authorities. Once the General Statistics Office issues the new administrative boundary list, the Center will collaborate with localities to ensure that the system is updated accordingly. However, for those still utilizing traditional documents, there may be a need to reissue them in light of the boundary changes. In contrast, users of the VNeID application will have their information automatically updated by the police, ensuring that their electronic identification accounts reflect the new administrative boundaries.
Documents integrated into VNeID carry the same legal weight as their paper counterparts. This digital platform aims to streamline administrative processes and alleviate the burden on citizens, particularly in light of recent changes in administrative divisions.
The discussion also served as a platform for experts, regulatory agencies, and businesses to explore ways to enhance the effectiveness of the VNeID application, which is heralded as a national electronic identification platform. Thiếu tá Hiển remarked that approximately 82 million CCCDs have been issued to eligible citizens according to the old administrative locations. He reiterated that the use of old documents remains permissible under the new regulations.
Trần Xuân Toàn, Deputy Editor-in-Chief of báo Tuổi Trẻ, noted that VNeID is not just an electronic wallet but a comprehensive application with a user base exceeding 60 million. He stated, "VNeID is perhaps the largest super app in terms of user numbers, and its functions are familiar to the public." The application encompasses essential documents including CCCDs, driver's licenses, and health insurance cards, making it a versatile tool for all citizens.
As of early 2025, the average daily usage of VNeID ranged from 3 to 6 million users, significantly higher than the previous year. The platform has also issued over 292 million identification accounts for organizations. Starting July 1, agencies and organizations will be required to have identification accounts similar to those of ordinary citizens when engaging in public service operations.
Security and data protection are paramount for the VNeID application. Thiếu tá Hiển highlighted the implementation of five critical requirements to ensure the app operates safely and efficiently, including legal compliance, data management, security measures, infrastructure, and resource allocation. The Center has also established social media channels on platforms like Facebook and Zalo to gather public feedback and enhance the application further.
In summary, the VNeID application stands as a bridge between citizens, businesses, and the government, effectively addressing the concerns surrounding document validity amidst administrative changes. As the nation moves towards digitalization, VNeID is positioned to play a crucial role in simplifying the lives of its users and ensuring that they remain informed and connected during this transition.
