A citizen reported that their family purchased agricultural land in July 2022. As the land had not been granted a land use rights certificate (red book), the two parties drew up a handwritten contract with the confirmation of the village chief. The family still farms the land.
The land has been granted a land map extract by the District Land Registration Office and the People’s Committee, identifying it as land for long-term tree planting. The previous owner had a certificate of land origin from reclamation in 2001, along with certificates confirming no disputes or planning issues, issued in 2022.
The citizen asks if it is possible to register for a red book in this case.
Illustrative image: Hong Khanh |
In response, the Ministry of Agriculture and Environment stated that the law on land stipulates the granting of land use rights certificates and ownership of assets attached to the land (red book) for cases where land use rights have been transferred but the transfer procedures have not been completed as regulated.
This is also stipulated in Part XI, Section C, Chapter V of Appendix I issued together with Government Decree No. 151/2025, which defines the division of authority between two levels of local government and the delegation of powers in the field of land.
According to the decree, for cases of land use rights transfer that do not comply with legal regulations but have the signatures of the involved parties and have not been granted a red book before August 1, 2024, there must be papers on land use rights as prescribed in Article 137 of the Land Law.
The Ministry of Agriculture and Environment requested that the citizen study and implement the regulations.
Hong Khanh
– 09:55 22/08/2025
The High Cost of Changing Land Use: A Burden on Livelihoods
“Recently, numerous households in Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City faced challenges when attempting to change the purpose of their land use. “
A Multifaceted Perspective on Land Valuation for the 2024 Land Law Reform
“The topic of land valuation based on “market value” is sparking lively discussions as the 2024 Land Law is being drafted for amendment.”
Can You Get a Red Book (Land Use Rights Certificate) When You Buy Land With a Handwritten Contract Verified by the Village Chief?
Effective August 1, 2024, cases involving land use rights obtained without adhering to legal regulations but bearing the signatures of relevant parties must be supported by documents pertaining to land use rights as stipulated in Article 137 of the Land Law.
“Unauthorized Farmstay Construction in Hue: New Owner Seeks Legalization, Agriculture and Environment Department Clarifies Authority.”
“For those with a green thumb and an entrepreneurial spirit, this land is a golden opportunity. This agricultural land is zoned for a unique blend of commercial and service purposes, offering a versatile canvas to bring your business dreams to life. With the right vision and the necessary approvals from the authorities, you can create a thriving enterprise that serves the community and beyond. Imagine cultivating not just crops, but also a vibrant hub of activity that becomes a destination in itself. The potential is limitless, and with your expertise and our guidance, we can craft a proposal that will impress and convince the decision-makers. Let’s paint a picture of a vibrant future together.”
“Registering Your Land: A Guide for Those With Ineligible Red Book Requirements”
“Mr. Nguyen Bao Trung, Deputy Director of the Department of Digital Transformation and Environmental Resource Data Information, revealed that the Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment is moving towards allowing registration of land information even for land that does not yet meet the requirements for certification.”
