New Law on Social Insurance 2025: The Vietnamese government has introduced a transformative piece of legislation—the Law on Social Insurance (2025)—which will officially come into force on July 1, 2025. This law is a vital reform aiming to enhance long-term social security, increase benefits for insured individuals, and expand coverage to new groups of workers. With 141 articles spread over 11 chapters, the law reshapes the current social insurance framework with clearer, inclusive, and progressive reforms tailored to meet Vietnam’s socio-economic needs.
One of the most significant aspects of this law is the inclusion of new participants under compulsory social insurance, such as part-time workers and certain business representatives, ensuring more people can access safety nets. Alongside this, the law introduces a new social retirement allowance, targeting the elderly who are currently not covered under pension or monthly insurance schemes. With the rising elderly population, this is a strategic step to prevent elderly poverty and improve quality of life.
The Law on Social Insurance also addresses delays in premium payments and evasion tactics by introducing punitive measures, thereby safeguarding employees’ rights more effectively. With benefits like monthly allowances for ineligible retirees and state-sponsored health insurance, this law promotes financial security and inclusive development. Let’s explore who can apply, what the benefits are, and how you can register.
Who Can Apply Under the New Law?
Expanded Scope of Compulsory Social Insurance
The Law significantly expands the categories of people required to participate in compulsory social insurance. Here are the key groups:
- Heads of business households
- Enterprise managers, including:
- Representatives of state-owned or enterprise-held capital as per the Law on Enterprises
- Members of Boards of Directors, CEOs, and Supervisors in cooperatives (not salaried)
- Part-time employees working under labor contracts earning at least the minimum wage, even if they work under different contractual titles
Eligibility for Social Retirement Allowance
The new social retirement allowance is designed to support elderly citizens not covered by any pension or insurance scheme. Eligible individuals include:
- Vietnamese citizens aged 75+ not receiving pension or social insurance
- Vietnamese citizens aged 70-74 from poor or near-poor households
- Retirees not eligible for pension or allowance but wish to draw from paid premiums as a monthly benefit
Insurance Fees and Payment Responsibilities
Premium Calculation Basis
The amount of compulsory social insurance premium is based on:
- The employee’s monthly salary
- The minimum salary benchmark set by the Government
- Contribution rates defined for specific groups (employers and employees)
Payment Responsibilities
- Employers are responsible for deducting and transferring both their portion and the employee’s portion of contributions.
- The State Budget covers insurance premiums for those receiving social retirement allowances and health insurance.
How to Use and Benefit from the New Law
Benefits of the Law
- Wider Coverage: Brings previously uncovered groups under insurance
- Social Retirement Allowance: Monthly payments to the elderly without pension
- State Health Insurance: Available to those receiving retirement allowances
- Monthly Allowance for Ineligible Retirees: Financial support for those not qualifying for pensions
- Support for Burial Costs: Aid to families for funeral expenses under the Law on the Elderly
Usage and Claim Process
- Eligible individuals will receive monthly allowances directly into their bank accounts.
- Health insurance cards will be issued to qualifying recipients.
- Burial expense claims can be submitted post-demise with proof of eligibility.
How to Apply for Social Insurance Benefits
Application Process
Here’s how to apply for benefits under the new Social Insurance Law:
- Visit Local Social Insurance Office: Bring valid ID, proof of age, and household status
- Submit Application Form: Available online or at the local office
- Verification: Authorities will assess eligibility based on income, age, and insurance history
- Approval and Disbursement: Once approved, funds will be disbursed monthly
Required Documents
- National ID or Citizen Card
- Proof of employment or insurance contributions
- Certificate of poor household status (if applying under age 75)
Important Dates to Remember
| Date | Event |
|---|---|
| July 1, 2025 | Law comes into effect |
| 2025-2026 | Implementation of new allowance schemes |
| Every 3 years | Adjustment of monthly allowance by Government |
| 2030 Target | 60% of retirees to receive monthly support |
Disclaimer
This article is for informational purposes only. For the most accurate and up-to-date details, please refer to the official text of the Law on Social Insurance 2025 or consult the nearest Social Insurance Office. Rules and benefits may vary based on specific eligibility conditions and local implementations.
New Law on Social Insurance 2025 Conclusion
The Law on Social Insurance coming into effect from July 1, 2025, marks a transformative shift in Vietnam’s social security framework. With the inclusion of broader coverage under compulsory social insurance, the law takes a major step toward ensuring that a larger section of society is protected against unforeseen financial hardships, especially in their old age. The focus on expanding the beneficiary base and introducing provisions such as social retirement allowance speaks volumes about the government’s commitment to long-term welfare and inclusion. Ministry of Labor, Invalids and Social Affairs
The newly introduced social retirement allowance will serve as a significant lifeline for elderly citizens who may not have been part of the formal workforce or had inconsistent social insurance contributions. By providing financial support for citizens aged 75 and above, and for those between 70 and 75 from economically vulnerable households, the law guarantees basic dignity and access to essential needs for the elderly. This multi-layered protection ensures no one is left behind in the country’s progress toward comprehensive social coverage.
The law also addresses long-standing issues around non-compliance and late payments by employers. With stricter measures and enforcement, employees can expect more robust protection of their rights and contributions. Moreover, the monthly allowance provision for those ineligible for pensions provides a fair and balanced approach that acknowledges the reality of irregular work histories while maintaining fiscal responsibility.
As Vietnam advances economically, this law positions the nation on a progressive path toward universal social protection. Whether you’re an employer, self-employed individual, cooperative member, or part-time employee, understanding the benefits and processes under the new law is essential. Being proactive and compliant will not only safeguard your future but also contribute to building a socially secure and resilient Vietnam.
New Law on Social Insurance 2025 FAQs
1. Who is eligible for the new social retirement allowance under the Law on Social Insurance?
Any Vietnamese citizen who is 75 years or older and not currently receiving a pension or any monthly social insurance allowance is eligible. Additionally, Vietnamese citizens aged between 70 and 75 years who are part of poor households or near-poor households may also qualify, provided they meet the specific conditions set by the law. These individuals will receive funds allocated from the state budget, and additional local support if available.
2. What are the changes in compulsory social insurance coverage starting July 1?
From July 1, 2025, the compulsory social insurance coverage extends to new groups such as:
- Heads of business households
- Enterprise managers and cooperative representatives who are not salaried
- Part-time employees working under contracts where monthly salary equals or exceeds the base salary for insurance This move ensures a broader segment of the workforce is protected under social insurance, reducing the risk of poverty in old age and enhancing social equity.
3. How is the monthly allowance calculated for those ineligible for a pension?
For individuals who have reached retirement age but have not paid the minimum 15 years of social insurance to qualify for a pension—and who are also not eligible for the social retirement allowance—a new provision allows them to receive a monthly allowance. This amount is calculated based on:
- The total contribution period
- The basis salary used for contribution This option is available to those who choose not to take a lump-sum payment or reserve their contribution period.
4. Will health insurance be included with these new benefits?
Yes. Beneficiaries of both the social retirement allowance and monthly allowance will have their health insurance premiums fully paid by the state budget. This ensures access to healthcare services without out-of-pocket expenditure, which is crucial for elderly and financially vulnerable individuals. In the case of the death of a beneficiary, partial burial expenses may also be covered as per laws governing the elderly.
5. How often will the social retirement allowance be reviewed or increased?
The Government is required to review and adjust the allowance levels every three years to keep them aligned with inflation and cost of living. Additionally, the National Assembly Standing Committee may gradually reduce the qualifying age for social retirement allowance in future years based on the state budget and socio-economic conditions. This dynamic structure ensures that the allowance remains relevant and sufficient over time.
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