Vietnam introduces social retirement allowance for elderly citizens

Vietnam has established new regulations regarding social retirement allowances for elderly citizens. Under Consolidated Document No. 15/2026/VBHN-NĐ-BYT, Vietnamese citizens aged 75 and older who do not receive a pension or social insurance benefits, or whose current benefits are below the prescribed level, are eligible for a monthly social retirement allowance of 540,000 VND.

Additionally, citizens aged between 70 and 75 who belong to poor or near-poor households are also eligible for this benefit, provided they meet the necessary requirements and submit a formal request. If a recipient is already entitled to a higher monthly social allowance, they will receive the higher amount.

To apply, the individual or their guardian must complete a declaration form and submit it via the National Public Service Portal, through postal services, or directly at a ‘One-Stop’ administrative department. The processing time for applications is set at seven working days from the date the dossier is received, at which point the Chairman of the Commune People's Committee will organize verification.