General Overview
VNIDA Professional Independent Director Certification
As a licensed professional association, VNIDA, by its position and mandate, is responsible for establishing the environment, conditions, and necessary foundations to develop and sustain the professionalism and effectiveness of Independent Directors, thereby contributing to the growth of the capital market and the broader economy. The program “VNIDA’s Chartered Independent Director” (VNCID) is designed and implemented based on the following core principles:
1. A professional practicing certification issued by an officially licensed professional association
2. Based on VNIDA’s Independent Director Competency Framework and Code of Ethics
3. Compliant with and meeting legal requirements, regulatory conditions, standards, and recognized best practices
4. Ensuring continuity and integration of professional knowledge, advanced skills, practical application capability, integrity, and ethical standing throughout the entire professional journey and at all times
5. Receiving nomination, endorsement, and continuous professional support from VNIDA/VNICG and recognized professional partners
Required Levels / Levels
Level 1:
Independent Director Training Program (IDTP)
A 3-day training program (24 hours) covering six core technical modules, including Legal, Finance, Risk, Strategy, and other key areas of corporate governance.
Level 2:
Independent Director Experience & Mentorship Program (IDXP)
Establishes and validates practical experience and professional competencies, together with advanced knowledge relevant to the role of Independent Members of the Board of Directors, in line with regulatory requirements and governance practices in Vietnam.
Level 3:
Independent Director Professional Practices (IDPP)
Confers the VNIDA’s Chartered Independent Directors (VNCID) designation, while supporting the continued development of the professional competence, experience, and ethical standards required of Independent Directors under VNIDA’s professional standards and practice framework.
Pathway for the 3 Levels
1
Independent Director Training Program (IDTP)
Hold a university or postgraduate degree and possess relevant experience (at least 05 years in management, executive, or governance roles) to register for the professional development program organized by VNICG.
Complete a 03-day foundational professional certification program based on VNIDA’s Competency Framework, regulations, and best practices, including mandatory pre-reading materials, attendance requirements, and end-of-course assessments.
The foundational certification modules for Independent Directors are professionally endorsed by reputable domestic and international professional associations and partners.
Eligible for exemptions or credit transfers for recognized qualifications or certifications accepted by VNIDA/VNICG.
2
Independent Director Experience & Mentorship Program (IDXP)
Within 12–36 months after program completion, fulfill mandatory continuing professional development requirements (24 equivalent hours), including participation in required advanced training programs, specialized skill development courses, or obtaining additional professional qualifications recognized by VNIDA/VNICG.
Serve as a Board Director (minimum 06 months) or as a senior executive (minimum 03 years) at public or listed companies without violations or adverse assessments, as verified by VNIDA/VNICG.
Participate in and complete a mentorship program with a VNIDA-member Independent Director in either a real assignment or a registered “simulated scenario” approved by VNICG for a minimum of 06 months.
3
Independent Director Professional Practices (IDPP)
Successfully complete the VNCID competency assessment (multiple-choice examination and essay) and commit to maintaining 16 hours of annual continuing professional education.
Meet the assessment and approval requirements of the VNICG Ethics Council.
Obtain confirmations or letters of recommendation demonstrating appropriate competence and professional experience from the following:
Recognized domestic and international professional associations accepted by VNIDA;
At least 02 reputable incumbent Independent Directors at companies listed on the VNX;
At least 02 incumbent members of the VNIDA Executive Committee or the VNICG Management Council.
Be a VNIDA member and register to maintain the professional title VNCID upon becoming a Professional Member, under the nomination, endorsement, professional oversight, and ongoing support of VNIDA/VNICG.
Proposed Professional Content Endorsement
Corporate Governance & Board of Directors:
SCA
Risk & Control:
IIA Vietnam
Finance:
CFA Vietnam
Together with advanced programs and specialized content delivered in collaboration with other professional partners and expert networks within the VNIDA/VNICG ecosystem.
Registration IDTP
Registration Form for the Independent Director Training Program in 2026