Vietnam is set to overhaul its gambling regulatory framework by introducing digital identity verification for casino customers and imposing stricter penalties for non-compliance. The changes, detailed in two government decrees, will come into force in late 2026 and are aimed at modernising customer verification and strengthening enforcement across the country’s tightly regulated gambling sector.
Digital Identification System to Modernise Casino Access
From 15 November 2026, casinos, electronic gaming venues catering to foreign customers, and betting operators in Vietnam will be permitted to verify customers through the VNeID digital identity platform. This system provides an alternative to traditional physical identification documents, making the verification process more streamlined and secure. However, operators will still be required to maintain comprehensive records and ensure that only eligible individuals are granted access to gambling facilities.
The updated rules will also reinforce employment restrictions, preventing the hiring of individuals with certain unexpunged criminal convictions related to illegal gambling or associated activities. Existing requirements for security staffing—such as sourcing at least 30% of security personnel from licensed providers—will remain unchanged for casinos and electronic gaming venues serving foreign customers.
Stricter Penalties for Regulatory Breaches
Under Decree 391/2026/ND-CP, which takes effect on 5 December 2026, new administrative penalties will be introduced for gambling-related offences. The legislation will apply to casinos, electronic gaming venues for foreigners, and betting operators involved in horse and dog racing as well as international football.
Organisations found in violation of the new rules could face fines up to VND200 million, while individuals may be fined up to VND100 million. Other sanctions include confiscation of items, corrective measures, and temporary business suspensions ranging from one to 24 months. Specific penalties target failures in customer verification, record-keeping, and responsible operations, with fines for casinos admitting ineligible customers reaching up to VND180 million. Repeat violations can result in longer suspensions.
Additionally, breaches related to anti-money laundering, counter-terrorism financing, and proliferation financing will be subject to fines between VND40 million and VND200 million.
Implications for Operators and Affiliates
These regulatory updates will require operators to invest in digital verification technology and review their compliance processes. The ability to use the VNeID system may simplify customer onboarding, but operators must continue to maintain accurate records and ensure all eligibility requirements are strictly observed. Affiliates and suppliers working with Vietnamese operators will also need to adapt their offerings and marketing practices to reflect the new requirements and avoid facilitating non-compliant activity.
While the digital ID system offers operational efficiencies, the tougher penalties and explicit sanctions for breaches underscore the need for robust internal controls and staff training. Operators must be vigilant in their record-keeping, customer eligibility checks, and compliance with anti-money laundering and responsible gambling obligations.
Key takeaways
- Vietnam will introduce digital ID verification for casinos and betting operators from November 2026.
- New administrative penalties, including higher fines and suspensions, will take effect in December 2026.
- Operators remain responsible for strict record-keeping and customer eligibility checks.
- Changes do not relax restrictions on Vietnamese citizens’ access to casinos.