Can You Apply for Online Consular Legalization?

If you’re dealing with foreign documents for use in Vietnam, consular legalization is a must. Does Vietnam offer online consular legalization?

If so, what documents will you need, and how does it all work? Let’s delve deeper into this topic with Thao & Co. in the following article.

Online Consular Legalization: Is It Possible?

Absolutely. With the convenience of online consular legalization, you can streamline the process and save a significant amount of time.

Start by visiting the Ministry of Foreign Affairs website – the electronic portal for consular services to fill out the application form. Just be sure to have all your required documents ready, including translations and originals, etc. just as you would for an in-person submission.

However, it’s important to note that while much of the process can be done online, it isn’t entirely digital yet. You’ll still need to mail your hard copy documents to the relevant authorities. Once everything is approved, your documents will be returned to you at the address you provide.

Learn more about cases exempt from consular legalization

Online Consular Legalization: Step-by-Step Guide

Step 1: Visit the official portal here: https://hopphaphoa.lanhsuvietnam.gov.vn/Legalization/Legalized-Registration.aspx

You can choose the English version for easier registration.

Step 2: Fill out all the required information and click Complete. Need help? Learn how to fill out the consular legalization form.

Step 3: Print and sign the request form.

Pro tip: Be sure to jot down the “Declaration Number” and “Verification Code,” or provide your email address to stay updated on your application status.

Step 4: Gather all the documents you need to legalize and send them by mail to:

1. ● the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (Hanoi),
2. ● the Department of Foreign Affairs (Ho Chi Minh City),
3. ● or the local foreign affairs office.

Documents you’ll need:

1. ● Signed request form for consular legalization
2. ● 01 copy of your ID card or passport
3. ● The original documents and copies that need legalization
4. ● A stamped, self-addressed envelope for the return of your documents

Step 5: Once received, the authorities will review your application and confirm the validity of your documents. If everything checks out, you’ll be asked to make the payment for consular legalization.

Step 6: The relevant authorities will verify the authenticity of signatures, official positions, and seals on your documents, cross-referencing them with the samples on file from foreign authorities.

Step 7: Once approved, your legalized documents will be sent back to you within 1 to 5 business days.

Filling Out the Online Form for Consular Authentication

When completing the form for consular authentication (whether paper or electronic), you’ll need to provide the following basic information:

1. ● Types of documents requiring consular authentication and the number of copies needed. This could include:
   • ◦ Driving licenses
   • ◦ Diplomas
   • ◦ Academic transcripts
   • ◦ Certificates of origin
   • ◦ Birth certificates
   • ◦ and more.
2. ● Country of use
3. ● Applicant information: Full name, national ID number, passport, address, phone number, and email address.
4. ● Declaration

For online consular legalization, you’ll also need to provide these additional details:

1. ● Types of documents: original copies, translations, copies, excerpts
2. ● Issuing or certifying authority
3. ● Signer, official title, and date of signature
4. ● Intended use of consular legalization documents: Insurance, expertise, adoption, study abroad, marriage, employment, temporary residence, etc.

How to Pay the Online Consular Legalization Fee?

You can pay the legalization fee online through various methods such as:

1. ● Bank transfer
2. ● Credit card
3. ● E-wallet

For Vietnamese citizens, the payments can be made online as follows:

1. Step 1: Visit the National Public Service Portal at: https://dichvucong.gov.vn/p/home/dvc-thanh-toan-phi-le-phi-ho-so.html
2. Step 2: Enter your application code, security code, and click “Search.” Follow the on-screen instructions to complete your payment.

Important: Be sure to save the receipt and take a screenshot of the successful transaction for future reference.

The latest consular authentication fee in Vietnam is 30,000 VND per copy per instance. To ensure your application is processed smoothly, make sure to pay the full amount in advance.

In addition to the legalization fee, you may also need to cover additional costs, such as:

1. ● Postal fees
2. ● Translation fees
3. ● Certification fees
4. ● Notarization fees
5. ● Delivery fees for consular certification

Considerations for Consular Authentication of Documents in Vietnam

1. ● Do your research: Ensure you’re well-informed about the requirements, procedures, and applications. Proper preparation is key to a smooth process.
2. ● Accuracy matters: Complete the form with all required information, ensuring everything is accurate and truthful.
3. ● Translation requirements: All documents requiring consular authentication must be translated into Vietnamese. These translations should maintain the format of the original documents and be properly notarized.

It’s crucial that translations and certifications are done by experienced translators to ensure accuracy. For this reason, entrusting these tasks to reputable translation agencies is highly recommended.

At Thao & Co., we have a team of professional and experienced linguists dedicated to delivering flawless translations that meet the strictest standards of the relevant authorities.

We also offer consular authentication services to save you time and effort. Our services encompass:

1. ● Document translations into Vietnamese from over 50 languages
2. ● Assistance with gathering documents and completing forms
3. ● Monitoring the status of your documents and keeping you informed of the final results.

With years of experience and thousands of satisfied clients, Thao & Co. offers a range of advantages:

1. ● Dedicated assistance: Enjoy prompt consultations and enthusiastic support tailored to your needs.
2. ● Timely turnaround: Our streamlined workflow ensures your documents are completed quickly and according to the agreed timeline.
3. ● Transparent pricing: Benefit from competitive rates with no hidden fees, giving you peace of mind.
4. ● Expert expertise: Our linguists have deep knowledge of consular authentication procedures, ensuring accuracy and compliance.
5. ● Information confidentiality: We protect your sensitive information through strict Non-Disclosure Agreements (NDAs).
6. ● Real-time updates: Our proprietary dashboard allows for smooth, secure file exchanges and real-time tracking of your project’s progress.

Encountering challenges during the consular authentication process?
Let Thao & Co. assist you.

We’re here to support you every step of the way as your trusted companion to help you navigate the procedures swiftly and precisely.

For further information about translation and consular authentication services at Thao & Co., leave your request on our Get a Quote page. Our consultants will promptly reach out to answer any questions you may have!