Summary
Vietnam does not have a comprehensive social security system. Rather, it has a program with different coverage arrangements for ‘Social Insurance’ (retirement, occupational accident sickness and maternity), Health Insurance (HI) and Unemployment Insurance. It is aimed primarily at providing protection for the lowest earners in Vietnam.
Details
Contributions
Locally employed foreign nationals are required to participate in SI and the HI scheme if their contract lasts for more than 12 months. The Unemployment insurance scheme only applies to Vietnamese nationals. The SI scheme is not applicable to foreign employees who work in Vietnam on assignment to a Vietnamese subsidiary.
From July 2025, SI contribution rates are 17.5% employer, 8% employee (on earnings up to $1,900 per month). HI contribution rates are 3% for the employer and 1.5% for the employee (again on earnings up to $1,900 per month). UI contributions are 1% each for employers and employees, again capped.
Treaties
Vietnam has only one bilateral social security agreement – with South Korea – but negotiations with other countries to widen the treaty network have commenced. Because of the general exemption from contributions for expatriates working in Vietnam, the lack of bilateral agreements does not lead to double contributions.
Exemptions
Given the broad exemption from social security for expatriates and the low contribution rates for local hires, exemptions are not applicable.
Administration
Given that expatriate employees are generally exempt from Vietnamese social security, there are no social security specific administrative burdens on non-Vietnamese employers.
Benefits
In 2026, the statutory retirement age for employees working under normal conditions is 61 years and 3 months for men, and 56 years and 8 months for women. Employees can qualify for a monthly pension with only 15 years of social insurance contributions, provided they reach the statutory retirement age. Foreigners working in Vietnam on overseas contracts will not typically be entitled to any state benefits, although the healthcare system can be accessed on a paid basis.
Other
Locally employed foreign nationals can, when their work permit expires and/or contract is terminated, claim a refund of their contributions.
Social security insights are intended to provide quick and straightforward insights into social security regimes. Always seek professional advice based on actual circumstances before acting.
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