Vietnam has officially updated its minimum wage policy starting January 1, 2026. The adjustment sets new wage standards across different regions of the country and is important for both employers and employees to understand.
The new policy ensures that workers receive fair pay while helping businesses stay aligned with Vietnam’s labor regulations.
Vietnam Minimum Wage 2026 by Region
Vietnam applies a regional minimum wage system, meaning the minimum salary varies depending on where a business operates. Major cities and developed areas usually fall under higher wage regions.
Starting January 1, 2026, the updated minimum wages are as follows:
| Region | Hourly Minimum Wage (VND) | Monthly Minimum Wage (VND) |
|---|---|---|
| Region I | 25,500 | 5,310,000 |
| Region II | 22,700 | 4,730,000 |
| Region III | 20,000 | 4,140,000 |
| Region IV | 17,800 | 3,700,000 |
Understanding Vietnam’s Regional Wage System
Vietnam divides its minimum wage levels into four regions, based on economic development and living costs.
- Region I typically includes major cities and highly developed economic zones.
- Region II and III cover developing urban and industrial areas.
- Region IV generally applies to rural or less developed regions.
Because living costs differ across the country, these regional wage levels help ensure fair and balanced compensation.
Why This Update Matters
The 2026 minimum wage update affects several areas of employment, including:
- Employee salary structures
- Labor contracts
- Social insurance contributions
- Payroll compliance for businesses operating in Vietnam
Employers should review their payroll policies to ensure they meet the new legal wage requirements.
Official Policy Reference
For the full legal document and official announcement, you can refer to the government policy here.
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