Are foreigners summoned by the police in Vietnam required to sign the statement record?

When a foreigner is summoned by the Vietnamese police to give a statement, the most common concerns are: “Will it be disadvantageous if I don’t sign the record?” or “Does signing mean I admit guilt?”
This article helps you clearly understand your legal rights and obligations, how to handle the situation safely, and when you should have a lawyer present to avoid unnecessary legal risks.

Foreigners summoned to give statements: understanding the situation from the beginning

Upon receiving a summons or request to work with the police, most foreigners feel confused and anxious. Language barriers, differences in legal systems, and fear of being involved in a criminal case often lead many people to sign records without fully understanding what they are signing.

The first key point to clarify is:
Being summoned to give a statement does not mean you have committed a crime.

In many cases, foreigners are only:

• persons with related rights and obligations

• witnesses

• victims

• or persons reported and subject to preliminary verification

Each legal status carries different rights and obligations, especially regarding whether to sign a statement record.

Are foreigners required to sign the statement record?

When summoned to give a statement, many foreigners worry whether signing the record is mandatory. Some sign out of fear, without fully understanding the content, or because they are afraid that refusing to sign may be considered uncooperative.

Applicable legal basis

Under the Vietnamese Criminal Procedure Code 2015, records of working sessions and statements are procedural documents used to record exchanges between investigative authorities and the summoned person.

Vietnamese law does not strictly require that all persons must sign the record at all costs.

Instead:

• the person giving the statement has the right to read the record

• has the right to request corrections or supplements if the content is inaccurate

• should only sign when they agree with the content

In other words, signing a record confirms its content, not an absolute obligation in all circumstances.

Does refusing to sign mean resistance or legal disadvantage?

This is one of the most common fears among foreigners.

In practice:

• refusing to sign does not automatically mean resistance

• the investigator must record the reason for refusal

• the record may still be used, but its evidentiary value will be assessed more cautiously

Does signing a statement mean admitting guilt?

A statement record only reflects:

• what you said

• the content of the discussion at that time

Whether a crime is established depends on:

• all other evidence

• the investigation process

• the assessment of procedural authorities

However, the real risk is that an inaccurate, misinterpreted, or mistranslated statement may seriously affect you later.
That is why foreigners should involve a lawyer as early as possible, even at the first working session.

Situations where foreigners should be especially cautious before signing

Not all cases of signing a statement are safe. Even small mistakes in language, content, or legal status can lead to serious consequences later.

When the record is written in Vietnamese

If you do not understand Vietnamese, are not fully explained the content, or lack a legal interpreter, signing carries high risks.

When the record does not accurately reflect your words

You have the right to request corrections before signing.

When your procedural status is unclear

Witness? related person? reported person?
If not clearly explained, signing may put you at a disadvantage.

The role of a lawyer when foreigners are summoned

Many cases appear simple at first, but due to uninformed statements, later consequences become much more serious.

A lawyer can:

• explain your rights and obligations

• review the record before signing

• ensure accurate legal interpretation

• protect your lawful interests

What should you do if you or a relative is summoned?

Instead of panicking or signing hastily:

1. Stay calm and clarify the reason for the summons

2. Ask clearly about your legal status

3. Do not sign if you do not fully understand

4. Contact a lawyer experienced with foreign clients

An early correct decision can significantly reduce future risks.

Are you facing a similar situation?

If you are a foreigner who:

• has been invited by the police

• has been summoned for a statement

• is involved in a criminal case in Vietnam

• or has a relative facing legal issues

👉 Contact DEDICA Law Firm for legal advice in a language you understand, with a cautious, lawful, and client-centered approach.

📞 Hotline: (+84) 39 969 0012 (WhatsApp, WeChat, Zalo)
🕒 Working hours: Monday – Friday (8:30 – 18:00)
📩 Initial consultation is free.