Notice on the Issuance of Border Crossing Vessel Permits

October 30, 2025

On October 7, 2025, the Ministry of Public Works and Transport (“MPWT”) issued Notification No. 065 to inform all shipping companies, shipowners, and operators of cross-border transport vessels that the Vietnamese authorities have strengthened the enforcement of laws governing cross-border transport operations.

Accordingly, all vessels engaged in commercial transport activities, including the carriage of goods or passengers from Cambodia to Vietnam are now required to obtain a border crossing vessel permit.

Thus, shipping companies operating cross-border transport should ensure that all vessels possess valid permits to avoid potential delays, penalties, or denial of entry.

Permit application requirements

Applications for border crossing vessel permits must submitted to the MWPT’s Waterway Transport Department of the General Department of Waterway, Sea and Port Transport.

The following documents must be attached with the application form:

• Valid shipowner identification card
• Ship-related document, such as a ship identification card or a domestic waterway vessel registration certificate
• Vessel technical inspection certificate
• Waterway transport business certificate
• Insurance policy or relevant insurance certificate
• Letter of criminal record
• Business registration certificate
• Company’s articles of incorporation:

Validity period

Border crossing vessel permits are valid for one year from the date of issuance.