The government has issued Decree No. 143/2024/ND-CP on voluntary occupational accident insurance, which took effect on January 1, 2025.
The decree applies to laborers aged 15 and above who work without an employment contract and are not subject to compulsory social insurance for occupational accidents and diseases. By participating in voluntary occupational accident insurance, laborers are entitled to benefits such as assessment of reduced work capacity, and compensation for occupational accidents resulting in a reduction of work capacity of 5% or more due to occupational accidents during the insurance period (except for some cases).
In addition, when a laborer dies from an occupational accident, or during the initial treatment for an occupational accident, or during the treatment of an occupational injury without an assessment of reduced work capacity, their dependents shall receive a one-time allowance equivalent to 31.5 times the regional minimum wage of Region IV.
Regarding the contribution methods and rates for voluntary occupational accident insurance, laborers can register with the social insurance agency to contribute either every 6 months or annually. The contribution rates are as follows: 6-month contribution is 6% of the Region IV minimum wage, and 12-month contribution is 12% of the Region IV minimum wage. Laborers working without an employment contract and participating in voluntary occupational accident insurance will receive financial support from the state, which will cover a certain percentage of their contributions.

Freelancers will receive benefits by participating in voluntary occupational accident insurance
Many laborers view this new policy positively, as it helps compensate for the income of freelancers engaged in strenuous, hazardous, and risky jobs (but not subject to compulsory occupational accident insurance) in case of accidents. However, some find it challenging to access due to cost concerns. Mr. Tran Van Linh, a resident of District 6 and a construction worker for almost 20 years, shared that his team mainly takes on small civil construction projects, and none of them have employment contracts. As a result, they only purchase family health insurance and 24/7 accident insurance with low benefit limits. While he appreciates the new policy, most of his teammates are reluctant to participate due to the additional expense.
“Since the pandemic, our work has become more difficult, and our income is unstable. Even though the contribution rate is not too high, it’s challenging for us to set aside a portion for additional insurance,” he said.
On the other hand, some freelance workers are unaware of the voluntary occupational accident insurance policy. For instance, Mr. Nguyen Hong Phuc, a ride-hailing driver from District 8, shared that driving involves many risks, and he has experienced two minor accidents while on the road. However, as he did not have insurance, he received no support during his recovery period. While some ride-hailing companies provide insurance for long-serving drivers, it is not universal. Mr. Phuc supports the voluntary occupational accident insurance policy and plans to learn more about it to participate in the near future.
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