Vietnam expands voluntary social insurance for overseas workers and early retirement options

Under the 2024 Vietnamese Social Insurance Law, citizens aged 15 and above who are not in mandatory coverage can join a voluntary scheme. The contribution, set at 22% of a chosen monthly income, ranges from VND 330,000 to VND 10.296 million. The minimum income base is VND 1.5 million and the maximum is 20 times the reference salary (currently VND 2.34 million, rising to VND 2.53 million in July 2026). Registration can be completed online through the national social insurance portal, allowing overseas Vietnamese to enrol without geographic barriers.

The law also specifies conditions for workers whose labor capacity has declined by 61% or more. Those with at least 20 years of contributions and a medical assessment may retire up to five years early if the reduction is 61‑80%, or up to ten years early if it is 81% or higher. Special provisions apply to workers in hazardous jobs with 15 years of service. A new monthly allowance scheme supports retirees who have reached the retirement age but lack sufficient contributions for a full pension, and voluntary contributions can be used to bridge any gaps.