Vietnam to recruit top graduates directly into civil service starting July 2026

The Vietnamese government issued Decree No. 259/2026/NĐ‑CP, outlining the recruitment, use and management of civil servants in public sector institutions. Effective 1 July 2026, the decree allows outstanding university graduates and other talented individuals covered by the high‑skill human‑resource attraction policy to be appointed through a selection process rather than the traditional competitive exam.

Eligible groups include volunteers committing three or more years to work in economically disadvantaged regions, graduates returning to work in their hometown after studying under a special training scheme, excellent graduates and other talent identified under the policy, as well as cases defined by sector‑specific laws. The decree also sets priority‑point bonuses: heroes of the People’s Armed Forces, Labor Heroes and war veterans receive an extra 7.5 points in the second round, while ethnic minorities, former officers, retired police, and related categories receive a 5‑point bonus.