How to Obtain a Police Clearance From Vietnam for an Australian Visa

Obtaining a police clearance from Vietnam for an Australian visa requires knowing the correct issuing authority and the correct process. Following the wrong process wastes time and the document will not be accepted by the Department of Home Affairs (DHA).

The Authority That Issues Police Clearances for an Australian Visa

The Ministry of Justice of Vietnam is the competent authority for issuing a police clearance (Judicial Record) to submit to the DHA — specifically, the National Centre for Criminal Records.

Not: Ward or commune police, provincial police, or a local “confirmation of identity” — the DHA does not accept these documents.

Two Ways to Apply

Option 1: Apply in person in Vietnam

• Attend the National Centre for Criminal Records (Hanoi) or the Department of Justice in the province or city of permanent residence
• Lodge the application and collect the result (usually 10 working days)

Option 2: Apply through a Vietnamese embassy or consulate (when overseas)

• Lodge the application through a Vietnamese embassy or consulate in Australia (or the country you are in)
• This usually takes longer (4–8 weeks)
• Consular fees may differ

Documents to Prepare

• The application form for a judicial record (using the Ministry of Justice template)
• A certified copy of your national ID card or passport
• A passport-style photo (4x6cm)
• The fee as currently set

If applying through an embassy: also include a copy of your passport, the consular fee, and an order letter (if required).

Processing Time

• At a local Department of Justice: 10 working days (about 2 weeks)
• Through an embassy overseas: 4–8 weeks

It is advisable to apply early, particularly for subclass 482 and 186 visas that have deadlines for submitting results.

Translation Into English

A Vietnamese police clearance must be translated into English by a recognised translator. In Australia, a recognised translator is a member of NAATI (the National Accreditation Authority for Translators and Interpreters). In Vietnam, a notarised translation may also be accepted.

Applying While in Australia for a Period Lived in Vietnam

If you are in Australia and need a Vietnamese police clearance:

1. Contact the Vietnamese consulate in your state
2. Prepare the documents as required (you may be able to post them or attend in person)
3. Processing time: 4–8 weeks from the date the complete application is received

The topic on police clearances for an Australian visa covers the general requirements and other countries.