Vietnam sets new ID checks and penalties for casinos

Vietnam has issued two decrees that add a digital identity option for casino customer checks and overhaul fines for gambling violations.

From November 15, 2026, casinos, betting operators, and electronic gaming venues that serve foreigners can confirm a customer’s identity through VNeID, the government’s digital ID app, instead of relying only on physical documents. Decree 392/2026/ND-CP does not remove any existing duties. Operators must still record every customer in a register and keep anyone who fails the eligibility criteria away from casino and electronic games.

The same decree prevents operators from employing people whose convictions for illegal gambling, organizing gambling, or loan-sharking have not been expunged. Casinos and electronic gaming venues must also continue to source at least 30% of their security staff from outside security firms, a rule in place since 2016.

Penalties are covered by Decree 391/2026/ND-CP, which takes effect on December 5 and replaces Decree 137/2021/ND-CP. Failing to keep proper customer records can bring a fine of $4,900 to $5,650. Letting ineligible customers into a casino can cost up to$6,800, along with a suspension of up to 24 months for repeat offenders. The overall cap is VND200 million for organizations and VND100 million for individuals.

Locals who meet the eligibility rules are still restricted to Corona Resort & Casino on Phu Quoc and The Grand Ho Tram.