Vietnam will tighten biometric authentication for new bank cards from early next year, starting on January 5, 2026, the time when banks are required to verify customers’ biometric data in person before issuing any new cards.

The requirement is part of Circular 45/2025 issued by the State Bank of Vietnam, which updates card-issuance regulations and strengthens identity verification.

A bank customer scans a chip-based identification card for biometric verification. Photo: VGP

For corporate clients, banks must obtain written authorization naming the individual allowed to use the card as a supplementary cardholder.

Cards will be activated for electronic transactions only after identification documents and biometric data are authenticated through chip-based ID cards or electronic identity accounts.

The previous rule requiring foreign customers to have at least 12 months of remaining residency has been removed. Card validity will now match the customer’s permitted residency period in Vietnam.

For customers registering through online banking apps, issuers must verify that the registered phone number belongs to the cardholder or the legal representative.

The circular also clarifies requirements for institutional customers, who must provide written authorization for the person designated as the supplementary cardholder.

For credit cards, the regulation caps total monthly cash withdrawals at VND100 million (US$4,100) per cardholder across all cards issued under the same bank identification number (BIN).