Free Health Insurance for Students and Seniors Over 65 in Ho Chi Minh City

The resolution came into effect on November 14, 2025. For eligible individuals, health insurance cards will be valid from the same date. If an eligible person’s current health insurance card is still valid, the support will apply immediately after the card expires.

Under this policy, individuals aged 65 to under 75 with permanent residency in Ho Chi Minh City, who are not already covered by other health insurance schemes, will receive 100% coverage of their health insurance premiums from the city’s budget. This group includes over 530,000 people.

For students, including those in public and private primary, secondary, and high schools, as well as continuing education programs, the resolution provides a 50% subsidy on health insurance premiums.

Combined with the 50% support from the central government’s policy, students will receive full coverage of their health insurance costs. Over 2 million students are expected to benefit from this initiative.

This policy also aims to increase the proportion of citizens enrolled in health insurance. According to Resolution No. 72-NQ/TW of the Politburo, the goal is to achieve over 95% health insurance coverage by 2026 and universal coverage by 2030.

Additionally, Decision No. 383/QĐ-TTg by the Prime Minister outlines the National Strategy for the Elderly until 2035, with a vision to 2045. It sets a target for 2025–2030 to ensure 100% of elderly individuals have health insurance cards.

The Ho Chi Minh City People’s Committee emphasizes that this policy not only reduces healthcare costs for families but also promotes equitable access to medical services, enhances state management efficiency, and ensures legal consistency.

The committee highlights that fully subsidizing health insurance for seniors and students reflects deep humanitarian values and underscores the city’s commitment to public health. This initiative is expected to significantly boost health insurance participation rates.