A comprehensive guide to withdrawing social insurance benefits for foreigners in Vietnam

21/04/2026

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You've worked in Vietnam for several years and paid your social insurance contributions in full. But as you prepare to leave, you start to worry: will you be able to withdraw your social insurance, what do you need to do, and will you lose your money if you don't do it in time?

This isn't an uncommon question. Many foreigners – from experts and managers to engineers – find themselves in similar situations: they don't understand the law, don't have time to process it, or have already returned to their home country without completing the procedures. Without a clear understanding of the regulations, you could easily miss out on the money you've contributed over many years.

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1. Conditions for Foreigners to Receive a Lump-Sum Social Insurance Payment

Before considering the procedures, you need to know if you meet the eligibility requirements. This is a fundamental step that many people overlook. According to the 2014 Social Insurance Law and Decree 143/2018/ND-CP, foreign workers in Vietnam who are subject to mandatory social insurance will receive social insurance benefits, including a lump-sum social insurance payment.

Foreigners can receive a lump-sum social insurance payment in the following common cases:

  • Terminate the employment contract and cease residing in Vietnam.
  • Eligible for a pension but not staying in Vietnam.
  • Having a life-threatening illness as defined by regulations.

In reality, the majority of social insurance withdrawal applications fall under the first category – when the employee finishes their job and leaves Vietnam.

2. When should you withdraw your social insurance contributions?

Choosing the right time will save you a lot of time and help you avoid risks.

Before leaving Vietnam

If possible, you should prepare and submit your documents before departure. While still in Vietnam, it's easier to complete paperwork, sign documents, and handle any issues that may arise.

This is the quickest and safest way.

After returning to your home country

If you didn't manage to do it before returning home, you can still withdraw your social insurance.

You don't need to return to Vietnam; you can do it through authorization. This is a common and practical solution that DEDICA often applies to international clients. However, when processing remotely, the documents need to be more accurate because it's difficult to quickly supplement them if there are errors.

3. Detailed instructions on the process of withdrawing social insurance benefits

Step 1: Determine eligibility

First, you need to determine which category you fall under to withdraw social insurance contributions. This directly affects your application and how it will be processed.

Step 2: Prepare your documents

Typically, you will need the following documents:

  • Social insurance book
  • Passport
  • Decision to terminate the contract
  • Application for a one-time social insurance benefit

If applying remotely, you will need a valid authorization letter.

Step 3: Submit your application

The application is submitted to the Social Insurance agency where you previously participated. You can submit it yourself or through an authorized representative.

Step 4: Receive the results

If the application is complete, the processing time is usually 7–15 working days. The money can be received via bank account or through a method suitable for each case.

Social insurance is a legitimate financial benefit that you have accumulated throughout your working life. Contact DEDICA Law for advice on the most suitable solution and to ensure you don't miss out on your benefits.

Contact DEDICA Law Firm for expert legal advice!

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