Vietnam Proposes Higher Allowances for Meritorious Service, Unveils New Journalist ID Card

Vietnam's Ministry of Interior is proposing a significant increase in monthly allowances for individuals recognized for their meritorious services to the nation. The proposed adjustment would raise the standard allowance from 2.789 million VND to 3.012 million VND per month, effective July 1. This increase is directly linked to the government's decision to raise the base salary to 2.53 million VND per month, reflecting an approximate 8% rise.

This adjustment forms the basis for calculating various benefits and preferential treatment for those who have contributed to the nation's revolutionary cause and their families. The draft decree also outlines specific support levels for other benefits, such as health recovery and care. For home-based care, the allowance will be 0.9 times the standard allowance per person per care session. For group care, it will be 1.8 times the standard allowance.

In related news, the Ministry of Culture, Sports, and Tourism has officially announced the new design for the 2026 journalist ID card. The card, adhering to ISO CR80 standards, will be made of PVC with a matte finish on both sides. The front will feature a yellow background with a lotus flower and Dong Son drum motifs, while the back will be red. It will include the journalist's photo, a QR code for real-time verification, and essential information in both Vietnamese and English. The card's validity period is five years from the date of issuance.