Required Identification Documents for Speedboat & Ferry Travel in Vietnam

Traveling by high-speed craft, express ferries, and speedboats to famous island destinations in Vietnam—such as Con Dao, Phu Quoc, Ly Son, Can Gio, or Phu Quy—is increasingly popular. A common question among travelers before setting sail is what identification documents are required for speedboat travel and whether electronic IDs (like VNeID) or passports are mandatory.

To ensure maritime security and strict compliance with regulations set by the Vietnam Maritime Administration, declaring personal information and presenting valid identification documents for ferry travel is compulsory for all passengers. This article provides a comprehensive list of valid IDs, guidelines for using VNeID, and why accurate personal details must be submitted in advance when booking tickets.

1. List of Valid Identification Documents for Speedboat Travel

When checking in at port terminals and boarding high-speed ferries, all passengers must present one valid original document (or an authorized digital equivalent) from the list below:

For Foreign Passengers

• Original Passport: Must be valid and accompanied by a legitimate Visa, e-Visa, or Visa Exemption document.

• Temporary Residence Card (TRC) / Permanent Residence Card (PRC): Issued by Vietnamese immigration authorities.

For Vietnamese Citizens

• Citizen Identity Card (CCCD) / National ID Card (CMND): Original physical card within its validity period.

• VNeID Electronic ID Account: Activated at Level 2 Identification on a smartphone.

• Original Passport: Valid passport.

• Driver’s License: Issued by authorized Vietnamese road transport authorities.

• Birth Certificate / Excerpt of Birth Registration: Mandatory for children under 14 years old (original, certified copy, or digital profile shown on the parent’s/guardian’s VNeID Level 2 app).

• Specialized Cards: National Assembly Member Card, Press Card, Police/Military Identification Card…

⚠️ Important Note: All physical documents presented must be originals (or verified via VNeID Level 2) with clear photo and text visibility. Screenshots on phones, standard photocopies, or digital pictures of physical cards will not be accepted at port gate controls.

2. Guidelines for Using VNeID at Ferry Terminals

Major passenger port terminals across Vietnam (such as Tran De, Vung Tau, Rach Gia, Ha Tien, Sa Ky, and Phan Thiet) accept digital ID checks via the VNeID application for Vietnamese citizens.

To ensure a smooth boarding process:

1. Level 2 Registration Required: Level 1 accounts do not integrate full e-ID database information and are legally insufficient for maritime clearance.

2. Open the App in Advance: Launch VNeID before approaching the boarding gate to avoid delays caused by cellular network congestion (3G/4G) or forgotten passwords at control points.

3. Children’s Credentials on VNeID: Children listed under “Dependents” on a parent’s/guardian’s VNeID Level 2 profile can be presented directly instead of carrying a physical birth certificate.

3. Why Must Personal Information Be Provided When Booking Tickets?

Unlike overland bus transportation, offshore passenger transport by sea is strictly monitored by local Port Authorities and Border Guard Commands. When booking speedboat tickets, passenger agencies and ferry operators require:

• Full Name (exactly as displayed on Passport / CCCD)

• Date of Birth

• Passport / ID / Birth Certificate Number

• Nationality

Providing accurate details in advance serves essential purposes:

• Maritime & Border Security Clearance: A vessel is legally permitted to depart only when the actual passenger manifest onboard matches 100% with the manifest registered with Port Authorities and Border Guards.

• E-Ticket & Tax Invoice Issuance: Ensures the issuance of valid electronic tickets for corporate expense reimbursement or VAT tax invoice generation.

• Travel Insurance Coverage: Passenger manifests serve as the legal foundation for insurance providers to handle claims in the event of maritime incidents.

• Fast-Track Gate Check-In: Pre-declared information reduces gate check-in times to just 5–10 seconds per passenger, preventing queue congestion during peak hours.

4. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Can I use a notarized photocopy of my passport or ID card to board the speedboat?

Answer: No. Port managers and Border Guard officials strictly require original physical documents (Passport/CCCD) or verified VNeID Level 2 accounts.

Q: What documents do children without an ID card or passport need?

Answer: Children under 14 years old must present an original birth certificate, a certified extract copy, or be displayed under the dependent section of their parent’s VNeID application.

Q: What if I lose my physical ID or Passport right before departure?

Answer: For foreign travelers, an official police report of lost documents along with emergency travel documents from your embassy is required. For Vietnamese citizens, a valid driver’s license or VNeID Level 2 can be used as an alternative.