Vietnam implements digital identity and social insurance updates

Vietnam is implementing significant digital administrative changes. Starting September 1, 2026, Vietnam Social Security will replace traditional social insurance codes with personal identification numbers (citizen identity card numbers) across all professional systems. This transition aims to synchronize insurance data with the national population database. Authorities state this process will be automatic and will not change historical contribution data or existing benefits.

Regarding identity documents, citizens can now request identity card updates via the VNeID application to reflect changes in administrative units, a process that is currently fee-exempt. Additionally, specific age groups—those turning 14, 25, 40, and 60 in 2026—will be required to undergo identity card renewal procedures according to the 2023 Law on Identity.

In the healthcare sector, the VssID application has received updates to improve user experience for tracking medical examination and treatment records. Furthermore, health insurance participants can change their initial medical examination and treatment registration sites during the first 15 days of each quarter to better suit their residence or workplace.