Quick answer
A CNI is a DFAT document supporting your intended marriage overseas; at least one partner must be an Australian citizen or permanent resident. In Vietnam, book a notarial appointment at the Embassy or Consulate-General, sign the form before a consular officer and bring your passport and any divorce or death certificate. The fee is A$181. Ask the marriage registration authority first what it needs.
- CNI fee
- A$181
- Who can apply
- At least one partner is an Australian citizen or permanent resident
- Where in Vietnam
- Embassy Hanoi, Consulate-General HCMC (appointment)
- Signing
- Before a consular officer at the appointment
On this page
Check what the local authority needs
- Whether a CNI is needed, or other evidence such as a Single Status or No Record Result Certificate from your state or territory registry.
- Whether the CNI must be issued in Vietnam, and whether it needs an apostille or authentication certificate.
- Which other documents they want (birth, divorce or death certificates), and whether those need translation or legalisation.
DFAT cannot advise on another country's legal processes.
Updated: Sources: Smartraveller (DFAT): How to get a Certificate of No Impediment to Marriage
Documents and steps
- Australian citizen: valid Australian passport. Permanent resident: valid foreign passport and evidence of permanent residence. Foreign partner: valid passport or photo ID.
- Divorced: divorce certificate. Widowed: the deceased partner's death certificate. Under 18: judicial authorisation from an Australian court.
- Originals or certified copies; non-English documents need an English translation by a professional translator.
- Download the application form, and sign it only in front of the consular officer at your appointment. Add a Document Legalisation Request Form if the CNI must be legalised.
- Appointments: Hanoi Monday 13:30–16:00, Wednesday and Friday 9:00–12:00 and 13:30–16:00; Ho Chi Minh City Monday–Friday 9:00–12:00. Card payment only.
Updated: Sources: Smartraveller (DFAT): How to get a Certificate of No Impediment to Marriage, Australian Embassy Hanoi: Notarial services, Australian Consulate-General Ho Chi Minh City: Notarial services
Fees
| Fee | Amount |
|---|---|
| Certificate of No Impediment to Marriage (CNI) | A$181 |
| Apostille certificate | A$105 |
| Authentication certificate | A$105 |
Updated: Sources: Australian Embassy Hanoi: Notarial service fees (from 1 July 2026)
Frequently asked questions
Do I need a CNI to marry in Vietnam?
It depends on the Vietnamese marriage registration authority. DFAT advises asking the local authority whether it needs a CNI or other evidence, and whether the CNI must be legalised.
Neither of us is Australian. Can we get a CNI?
No. At least one applicant must be an Australian citizen or permanent resident; otherwise ask the authorities of your own country.