Vietnam's Ministry of Home Affairs guides salary classification for civil servants with prior non-specialized roles

A resident of Tay Ninh province has sought clarification from Vietnam's Ministry of Home Affairs concerning the salary classification process for civil servants who have prior work experience. The woman, identified as Trần Thị Ngọc, was recruited as a civil servant on February 1, 2026, to work as a specialist in ethnic and religious affairs within the Department of Culture and Social Affairs.

Ngọc, who previously served as the deputy chairwoman of the Women's Union for 15 years and 6 months, has contributed to mandatory social insurance for approximately 6 years and 11 months. She inquired whether her previous work experience and social insurance contributions would be considered for salary progression in her new civil servant role, citing government decrees and a Ministry of Home Affairs circular that address such transitions.

The Ministry of Home Affairs responded, stating that the salary classification for individuals recruited into civil service with prior work experience and social insurance contributions is governed by Circular 01/2026. The ministry advised Ngọc to consult with the civil servant management agency where she works for a review and resolution of her case. The circular emphasizes that salary classification must be based on work experience that aligns with the legal requirements and the professional demands of the recruited position, including continuous social insurance contributions. Work experience not matching the professional requirements of the new role will not be considered for salary classification.