Vietnam’s new Civil Servant Law 2025, passed on June 24 and effective from July 1, ushers in significant changes for recruitment and local government restructuring, aiming to modernize public administration and streamline governance across the country.
The law, officially numbered 80/2025/QH15, sets forth clear eligibility criteria for civil servant recruitment under Article 19. Starting July 1, 2025, candidates must hold Vietnamese nationality as defined by the Law on Nationality, reside in Vietnam, be at least 18 years old, and possess good political and moral qualities along with a clear background. Health requirements are also stipulated to ensure candidates can fulfill their duties effectively. Furthermore, applicants must meet job-specific conditions relevant to the positions they seek.
For those aspiring to leadership and management roles, the law adds another layer of requirements. Beyond the general criteria, candidates must satisfy appointment standards and conditions unless exceptions are made by competent authorities. This ensures that those in charge of public administration meet higher benchmarks to lead effectively.
However, the law also clearly excludes certain individuals from registering for civil servant positions. People who have lost or have restricted civil act capacity, suffer from cognitive or behavioral difficulties, or are under criminal prosecution or administrative sanctions, including compulsory rehabilitation or education, are barred from application. Additionally, those who have served criminal sentences but have not had their records expunged are ineligible. These provisions aim to maintain the integrity and reliability of the civil service.
Alongside the Civil Servant Law, the Ministry of Home Affairs (BNV) has been actively addressing challenges related to the implementation of the two-level local government model. Through Official Letter 4753/BNV-CQĐP, issued to provincial and city Party Committees and People’s Committees, the ministry calls for urgent resolution of difficulties surrounding personnel arrangements, policy benefits, office reorganizations, administrative procedures, and document archiving.
BNV emphasizes the importance of thorough review and support by local authorities to ensure smooth transitions. A particular focus is placed on document archiving and digitization. Local governments are urged to continue applying urgent solutions from a previous directive issued in March 2025 (Official Letter 414/BNV-VTLTNN), which strengthens management of archives during organizational restructuring.
To manage and process document data effectively, localities are encouraged to develop and approve comprehensive plans and projects before reorganizing their administrative structures. In cases where financial demands exceed local authority, the ministry requests prompt reporting to facilitate assistance from the Ministry of Finance and the Prime Minister’s office.
Moreover, BNV is pushing for the adoption of digitization software that complies with operational workflows and data standards as outlined in Circular 05/2025/TT-BNV, issued in May 2025. The ministry is gathering technology transfer needs from local governments to build a digital archive management system, planning direct consultations with provinces and cities. Localities must submit their requirements to the Department of Archives and State Records by July 10, 2025.
Regarding personnel affected by administrative restructuring, the ministry clarifies that officials, civil servants, public employees, and workers who wish to resign immediately may be granted approval and receive benefits according to Decree 178/2024/ND-CP, amended by Decree 67/2025/ND-CP, as well as Circular 01/2025/TT-BNV and its amendment. This facilitates a humane and orderly transition for those impacted by the changes.
One notable update under the new government model is the inclusion of non-specialized commune-level personnel as potential civil servants. Guided by the Government Steering Committee’s Official Letter 12/CV-BCĐ from June 20, 2025, and Decree 170/2025/ND-CP effective July 1, 2025, these individuals can be accepted into civil service if they meet the prescribed standards and conditions. This move recognizes the valuable contributions of grassroots workers and integrates them more formally into the public service framework.
Additionally, the Ministry of Home Affairs has issued guidance on procedures for renaming and reorganizing villages and residential groups within newly formed commune-level administrative units. Official Letter 4168/BNV-CQĐP, dated June 23, 2025, aligns these procedures with the recently enacted Law on Organization of Local Government (Law No. 72/2025/QH15). The ministry encourages local authorities to report any further difficulties promptly to ensure timely support and clarification.
These comprehensive reforms reflect Vietnam’s commitment to modernizing its civil service and local governance. By setting clear recruitment standards, supporting administrative restructuring, and embracing digital transformation in document management, the government aims to enhance efficiency, transparency, and service delivery to citizens.
As these changes take effect, local authorities and civil servants alike face a period of adaptation. Yet, with coordinated efforts and clear directives from the Ministry of Home Affairs, the transition promises to strengthen Vietnam’s public administration landscape for years to come.
