Vietnam Accelerates Digital ID Adoption to Replace Traditional Documents

Vietnam is taking significant strides towards digitizing citizen identification with the nationwide rollout of the VNeID app. Deputy Prime Minister Tran Luu Quang has ordered the acceleration of VNeIDadoption, aiming to replace traditional documents and streamline administrative procedures by July 1, 2024.

Why this matters: The adoption of digital IDs has far-reaching implications for governance, cybersecurity, and citizen convenience, and Vietnam's success in this area could serve as a model for other countries. As the world moves towards a digital society, the implementation of digital IDs will play a crucial role in shaping the future of public services and citizen engagement.

Developed by the National Population Data Centre under the Ministry of Public Security, the VNeID app serves as a multi-functional digital identity platform. It eliminates the need for citizens to manage multiple accounts across various government agencies, promising convenience, time savings, and enhanced efficiency.

The success of VNeID's trial in Hanoi has paved the way for nationwide implementation. Over 29.3 million electronic identification accounts have already been created, resulting in savings of approximately VND 469 billion (USD 20 million). The app has shown positive results in streamlining processes such as obtaining judicial records, reducing the need for physical visits to government offices.

Deputy Chairman of Hanoi People's Committee, Ha Minh Hai, highlighted the impact of VNeID, stating, "Every day about 1,000 people lined up at the one-door administrative units! Since the judicial record issuance was processed online, many people feel relieved for no longer having to visit offices. State agencies can also streamline staff and other resources on the manual process."

Beyond citizen convenience, VNeID plays a crucial role in enhancing state management. By reducing errors and redundancies associated with traditional paper documents, the app saves costs and time for both citizens and thegovernment. It also strengthens cybersecurity by consolidating user identities and mitigating fraud risks.

To ensure the smooth adoption of VNeID, Deputy PM Quang has directed relevant ministries and localities to step up communication efforts, making usage instructions easily understandable. Citizens can download the app on their smartphones and seek assistance from local police if needed. The Ministry of Information and Communications and network operators are tasked with cleaning mobile subscriber data and improving technical infrastructure.

As Vietnam moves towards a digital society, the VNeID app stands as a cornerstone of the government's e-governance initiatives. With over 53.1 million electronic ID accounts already activated nationwide, the country is well on its way to realizing the benefits of digital identification. The successful implementation of VNeID not only brings Vietnam closer to its digital transformation goals but also sets an example for other nations embarking on similar journeys.

Key Takeaways

• Vietnam's VNeID app aims to replace traditional documents by July 1, 2024.
• VNeID has created 29.3 million electronic ID accounts, saving VND 469 billion (USD 20 million).
• The app streamlines administrative procedures, reducing errors and fraud risks.
• VNeID enhances citizen convenience, saving time and effort in obtaining government services.
• Vietnam's digital ID initiative sets an example for other countries' e-governance efforts.