Vietnam will join the Hague Apostille Convention with effect from 11 September 2026, making it significantly easier to use Singapore-issued documents in Vietnam, and Vietnamese-issued documents in Singapore.
What is Changing?
✅ Fewer administrative steps (no consular legalisation or translation by Embassy required)
✅ Faster processing times
✅ Lower legalisation and courier costs
✅ Simpler cross-border transactions
✅ Greater certainty when using official documents overseas
Documents commonly affected
The new process is expected to benefit documents such as:
- Certificates of Incorporation
- ACRA Business Profiles
- Board Resolutions
- Powers of Attorney
- Birth Certificates
- Marriage Certificates
- Educational Certificates
- Probate and Estate Documents
- Statutory Declarations
What does not change?
The Apostille only certifies the authenticity of the document’s signature, seal or stamp. It does not verify the contents of the document.
Local requirements may still apply, including:
- Certified translations into Vietnamese
- Notarisation requirements for certain private documents
- Additional filing requirements imposed by Vietnamese authorities
Transition Period
Until 10 September 2026, the existing legalisation and translation procedures remain in force. Documents submitted before that date should continue to follow the current legalisation process.
In Summary
From 11 September 2026, businesses and individuals dealing with Singapore-Vietnam matters can expect a simpler, faster and more cost-effective document authentication process. This is a welcome development for cross-border investments, corporate transactions, estate matters, immigration applications and personal affairs between Singapore and Vietnam.
Tel: +65 6219 9027
Email: office@linealaw.sg
Appointment hours:
Monday – Friday: 9.30am – 5.30pm
Monday – Friday: 9.30am – 5.30pm
Address:
140 Upper Bukit Timah Road,
#03-08 Beauty World Plaza,
Singapore 588176
By MRT:
Beauty World MRT Station (DT5) – Exit A
Driving:
Park at Beauty World Plaza basement carpark
Address:
140 Upper Bukit Timah Road,
#03-08 Beauty World Plaza,
Singapore 588176
Contact:
