Until September 2026, U.S. documents for Vietnam went through the full legalization chain ending at a Vietnamese embassy or consulate. Since Vietnam’s accession took effect on 11 September 2026, an apostille replaces all of that.
Work permits are the biggest use. Vietnam asks for proof of qualifications, usually an apostilled degree, and a criminal record certificate issued within the last six months, which for Americans is the FBI check with a federal apostille.
At a glance
Why U.S. documents go to Vietnam
| Purpose | Documents usually apostilled |
|---|---|
| Work permit | Degree (state apostille), FBI check under 6 months (federal) |
| Marriage registration | Birth certificate, single status affidavit |
| Company and investment | Good standing certificate, formation documents, powers of attorney |
Translation
Vietnamese translation, usually certified in Vietnam. Translate after the apostille, so it is translated too. See translation requirements.
Things worth knowing
- No more consular legalization for U.S. documents since 11 September 2026.
- Offices are still adjusting. If one asks for legalization, show the apostille and the accession date.
- State or federal? A document issued by a state or county, or notarized, is apostilled by that state. One issued by a federal agency, such as an FBI check, by the U.S. Department of State.
How it works
Step 1
Tell us the documents
And what they are for in Vietnam.
Step 2
We check each one
Certified, notarized where needed, and recent enough.
Step 3
State and federal apostilles
Together, in one order.
Step 4
Back to you
Ready to translate and submit in Vietnam.
Apostille for Vietnam: common questions
Does Vietnam accept apostilles?
Yes. Vietnam has been a party to the Hague Apostille Convention since 11 September 2026, so a U.S. apostille is all the certification it needs. No embassy step is involved.
Do I need a translation for Vietnam?
Vietnamese translation, usually certified in Vietnam.
Who apostilles my document?
The state that issued it, or where it was notarized. Federal documents such as an FBI check go to the U.S. Department of State. See apostille by state.
Official sources
Requirements, fees and processing times are set by the authorities below and can change without notice. Verify anything time-critical directly with them.
HCCH Apostille Convention status table
Ready to get started?
Tell us what is going to Vietnam, and we will price every document in one order.
Related: FBI background check · Diploma apostille · Country checker