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Health insurance renewal in Vietnam

Written from published rules on 27 August 2026. Not monitored for changes since. A starting point, not official advice — confirm anything that matters with Bảo hiểm xã hội Việt Nam (Vietnam Social Security).

Renewing a health insurance card in Vietnam typically involves paying the required contributions and, if necessary, submitting an application for a new card. The process aims to ensure continuous coverage.

Your timing

It is generally advisable to initiate the health insurance renewal process at least 30-60 days before the current card's expiry date. This allows sufficient time for processing and delivery of the new card, preventing any gaps in coverage, especially if there are public holidays or processing delays.

Start 30 days ahead

This lead time is recommended to accommodate processing times, potential public holidays, and the delivery of the new health insurance card, ensuring uninterrupted coverage.

The process

  1. 1Verify the current health insurance status and expiry date, typically through the Vietnam Social Security portal or app.
  2. 2Determine the appropriate payment method and amount for the next coverage period, which depends on the type of insurance (e.g., compulsory, household).
  3. 3Pay the health insurance contributions through designated banks, post offices, or online payment gateways as specified by Vietnam Social Security.
  4. 4For household health insurance, if there are changes in household members or personal information, update these with the local social security office.
  5. 5Receive the new health insurance card. In many cases, if contributions are paid on time and information is unchanged, the new card may be issued automatically or made available for collection.
  6. 6Check the details on the new health insurance card for accuracy upon receipt.

What to bring

  • Current health insurance card (if available)
  • Identity document (e.g., Citizen Identity Card, household registration book)
  • Proof of payment for contributions (if paid separately and not automatically recorded)
  • Application form for renewal/re-issuance (if required for specific cases, such as lost card or changes in information)

Who handles it

Bảo hiểm xã hội Việt Nam (Vietnam Social Security)

https://baohiemxahoi.gov.vn/

The cost for health insurance varies based on the type of insurance (e.g., compulsory, household), the contribution level, and the coverage period chosen (e.g., 3, 6, or 12 months). Specific fee amounts should be confirmed with Vietnam Social Security or through their official payment channels.

What commonly goes wrong

  • Ensure all personal information, especially those related to residential address or employment, are up-to-date to avoid delays in card issuance or claim processing.
  • Confirm payment deadlines well in advance to prevent any lapse in coverage, which could lead to a waiting period for new benefits.
  • Be aware of different renewal procedures or payment options depending on whether the insurance is compulsory (e.g., through an employer) or voluntary (e.g., household insurance).
  • Verify that the new card has been successfully issued and delivered/collected after payment, and check for any discrepancies in the printed information.

Sources

Other documents in Vietnam

Health insurance renewal in other countries

Often renewed together

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