Vietnam: Employment Costs and Labor Policies
One-page guide to Vietnam's labor laws, visas, social security, and tax requirements. Estimate employer costs and plan a compliant expansion strategy.

Vietnam (VND) Global Hiring Overview
The proportion of foreign employees shall原则上 not exceed 3%, and the social security base includes multiple allowances.
Settlement Currency
VND
Minimum Monthly Salary Reference
12,000,000 VND
Employer Social Security Contribution Rate
Approximately 21.5%
Work Visa
Need employer sponsorship
Employer statutory cost components
- Social Security 17.5%
- Health insurance 3%
- Unemployment Insurance 1%
The above outlines key statutory employer cost factors; actual ratios fluctuate based on the salary base and annual policy adjustments.Global Expansion Cost CalculatorEstimate total hiring costs based on monthly salary and headcount.
Key Points of Vietnam's Employment Regulations
Employment contracts are fixed-term or open-ended. Probation period shall not exceed 180 days. Annual leave starts at 12 days and increases by 1 days every 5 years.
Key Points for Vietnam Work Visa
Work permits require health clearance and a police conduct check. Exemptions are limited; processing takes approximately 3-5 weeks.
Key Points on Vietnam's Social Insurance and Housing Fund
Social insurance 17.5%, medical insurance 3%, unemployment insurance 1%; employer total approximately 21.5%.
Key Points on Vietnam's Individual Income Tax and Corporate Income Tax
Progressive income tax 5-35%; standard corporate income tax 20%, reduced rate for encouraged industries 10%-17%.
Practical Tips
- The proportion of foreign employees shall, in principle, not exceed 3%.
- Social security contribution base includes multiple allowances; pay attention to the calculation scope.
Compliance Considerations
Vietnam's labor laws, visa requirements, and tax regulations are subject to annual budget bills and government announcements. Before finalizing employment structures and compensation packages, we recommend having your local compliance team review them. NAZAR can assume employer responsibilities through an Employer of Record (EOR) model, enabling companies to hire Vietnamese employees quickly and in full compliance.
Frequently Asked Questions: Hiring in Vietnam
What is the social insurance contribution rate for employers in Vietnam?
Employer contributions total approximately 21.5%: Social Security 14%, Health Insurance 3%, Unemployment and Sickness Fund 4.5%. Contribution bases include various allowances and have an upper limit. Employees contribute 10.5% and must also pay union dues of 2% on total wages.
Are there restrictions on the number of foreign employees in Vietnam?
The number of foreign employees shall generally not exceed 3% of the total workforce, and a staffing demand report must be submitted in advance to obtain either an exemption or approval for work permits. Exemptions may be available for scenarios such as intra-company transfers; however, headcount planning must be completed in advance.
Featured Destinations for Global Expansion
More Asia-Pacific Country Guides
Region:Asia-Pacific Expansion Hiring GuideView labor costs and key policy highlights for countries in the same region.
Need local hiring, payroll outsourcing, or compliance consulting in Vietnam?Submit RequestA consultant will contact you within 1 business days.
