How to keep your travel documents safe while traveling to Vietnam

Last Update: Saturday November 15, 2025

Quick Summary

Vietnam is an incredible destination filled with history, culture, and adventure — from the ancient charm of Hoi An to the dynamic streets of Ho Chi Minh City. But while you’re busy exploring, one thing you shouldn’t overlook is keeping your travel documents safe.

Losing your passport or visa can lead to unnecessary stress and delays. To help you stay worry-free, we’ve put together a complete Vietnam travel document guide packed with travel document safety tips and ways to protect your passport while traveling in Vietnam.

Why Travel Document Safety Matters in Vietnam

Vietnam requires every international visitor to carry valid identification and visa documents. You’ll need them for hotel check-ins, domestic flights, and some tours. Unfortunately, incidents of lost passports or petty theft — though rare — can happen in busy places like airports or night markets.

That’s why it’s important to prepare ahead, safeguard your information, and know what to do if something goes wrong.

Top Travel Document Safety Tips for Vietnam

1. Keep your passport in a secure place

Whenever possible, store your original passport in your hotel’s safe box instead of carrying it everywhere. For daily outings, a certified photocopy or digital copy is usually enough for identification.
If a hotel asks to keep your passport for registration, make sure it’s returned promptly once the check-in process is complete.

2. Use a travel wallet or neck pouch

A hidden travel wallet or neck pouch helps you keep important documents close to your body and away from pickpockets.
Avoid keeping all your valuables — cash, passport, and cards — in the same place. Separate them into different pockets or bags so that if you lose one, you still have backups.

3. Back up your documents digitally

Scan your passport, visa, and key travel documents, then store them safely in cloud storage such as Google Drive or Dropbox. You can also email the files to yourself or a trusted family member.
If your passport ever gets lost, these backups will make the replacement process much smoother.

4. Protect against digital theft

Modern passports and cards contain chips that can be scanned electronically. To avoid unwanted data access, use RFID-blocking wallets or sleeves. While such incidents are rare in Vietnam, this adds another layer of protection.

5. Stay alert in public areas

Crowded markets, train stations, or festivals are hotspots for petty theft. Keep your bag in front of you and zip it shut at all times.
Avoid flashing your passport or counting large amounts of cash in public, and never leave your belongings unattended — even for a moment.

6. Choose trusted transportation and services

When traveling between airports, hotels, or tourist destinations, always use verified transport providers or Fast Track meet & greet services.
Avoid handing your documents to unregistered drivers or agents, even if they seem helpful. Using official channels ensures your information remains secure.

What to Do If You Lose Your Passport in Vietnam

Even with the best precautions, accidents can happen. Here’s what you should do:

Step 1: Report the loss immediately

Go to the nearest local police station to file a loss report (often called a Police Certificate). This document is required to replace your passport or apply for an exit visa.

Step 2: Contact your embassy or consulate

Reach out to your country’s embassy in Hanoi or consulate in Ho Chi Minh City. They can issue you an emergency passport or temporary travel document to help you continue your journey.

Step 3: Apply for a visa reissue

Once you have your temporary passport, visit the Vietnam Immigration Department to request a new visa or exit permit. Having digital copies of your documents will speed up this process considerably.

Extra Tips for Safer Travel in Vietnam

Stay connected: Use a local SIM card or eSIM so you can access maps, translations, and emergency contacts.
Save important numbers: Keep contact details of your embassy, hotel, and local emergency hotlines — 113 (Police), 114 (Fire), and 115 (Ambulance).
Carry only what you need: Leave unnecessary cards and cash locked in your hotel safe to minimize risk.

FAQs — Trusted Services

Q1: Do I need to carry my passport all the time in Vietnam?

No. You can carry a copy or photo of your passport for most activities. Keep the original locked in a secure place unless you need it for official procedures.

Q2: What should I do if a hotel insists on keeping my passport?

Hotels are required to register foreign guests with immigration, but this can be done quickly. Politely ask them to make a copy and return your passport once the check-in is complete.

Whether you need a fast visa, airport fast track, private car, or eSIM, Vietnam-Immi.org is here 24/7 to support your trip.

Whatsapp: +84379522522

Hotline: +84.379.522.522

Email: sales@vietnam-immi.org