Vietnam updates pension and social insurance policies for 2026

Vietnam is implementing several updates to social insurance and welfare policies scheduled for 2026. Starting July 1, 2026, pensions, social insurance benefits, and monthly allowances will increase by 8% based on June 2026 levels. Under Decree 162, individuals receiving pensions before January 1, 1995, whose benefits remain below 3.8 million VND after the 8% increase, will receive further adjustments.

Additionally, new regulations regarding social retirement allowances will take effect on October 5, 2026. Under Decree 335/2026/NĐ-CP, citizens aged 70 and older who were already receiving allowances under previous regulations will be eligible for a new monthly rate of 540,000 VND, with retroactive payments calculated from July 1, 2026. New applicants meeting the criteria will begin receiving the 540,000 VND rate from the date the decree takes effect or the date of their decision.

Regarding employment transitions, the Ho Chi Minh City Social Insurance agency clarified that workers who secure new employment must notify their local Employment Service Center to terminate unemployment benefits within three working days to ensure proper synchronization of social insurance and health insurance records.