The Ministry of Public Security in Vietnam has officially announced the cessation of biometric data collection, specifically DNA and voice data, at both the ministerial and provincial levels. This move is part of a broader effort to simplify administrative procedures and improve the efficiency of public services.

On May 15, 2026, the Minister of Public Security signed Decision No. 2709/QĐ-BCA, which outlines the administrative procedures being abolished in the areas of identity card issuance, electronic identification and verification, and the management of conditional business sectors related to security and order.

Colonel Ngo Nhu Cuong, Deputy Director of the Department of Administrative Management on Social Order, explained that the decision to discontinue these biometric data collection procedures is in line with the Government's Resolution No. 22/2026/NQ-CP, aimed at reducing, decentralizing, and simplifying administrative procedures managed by the Ministry of Public Security.

Cuong emphasized that this does not eliminate the state's requirement to manage identification data. Instead, it focuses on eliminating bureaucratic procedures at the ministerial and provincial levels, thereby delegating authority and streamlining processes to local police stations, which are closer to the citizens.

This initiative is designed to minimize the number of intermediaries, reducing the need for citizens to travel and submit documents at higher administrative levels. It aligns with the government's goal of enhancing administrative reform, simplifying procedures, and optimizing processes to improve the efficiency of public services, including the use of digital data and online public services.

In addition to these changes, the Ministry of Public Security plans to enhance training and guidance for local police, improve discipline in data handling, and promote the use of technology and online services to reduce paperwork and the risk of data leaks.